Tree species-based differences vs. decay performance and mechanical properties following chemical and thermal treatments

Abstract

Many thermal and chemical treatments are known to inhibit wood decay despite the wood grade processed, but their impact, e.g., chemicals’ leaching and decay resistance, may not be similar. The aim of this study was to test whether some model treatments retain their performance in different wood species. Additionally, the effects of thermal modification and linseed oil-based varnish treatments as means to mitigate water-soluble chemicals leaching were assessed. The mass loss caused by Trametes versicolor was measured after a 12-week exposure to analyze whether the different treatment approaches prevented the fungal decay after a standard leaching test. The mechanical properties before and after exposure were tested independently to determine whether the mechanical properties of different wood species were affected by the tested treatments and wood decay. The responses of the tested wood species were found to vary by treatments, but thermal and chemical fixation methods for water-soluble tannins were beneficial in all cases considering the mass loss and the degradation of modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity of treated wood. Varnish was overall the most effective treatment against decay, but the results emphasize the need for testing potential preservation methods and chemicals on several species.