The effect of stake dimension on the field performance of two hardwoods with different durability classes
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Date
2010-04-22
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International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation
Abstract
Timber diversity is associated with virtually all types of wood structures for various end-uses including
bridges and railway-sleepers. Some timbers resist bio-degradation and are termed naturally durable.
Wood durability is influenced by numerous extrinsic and intrinsic factors; however, knowledge is scant
about the role stake dimension plays. Therefore, the field performance of replicates of four dimensions
(500 50 25; 250 25 12.5; 125 12.5 6.25; and 62.5 6.25 3.13 mm) from two commercially
important hardwoods (Milicia excelsa and Sterculia rhinopetala) of different durabilities (i.e., high and
moderate, respectively) was investigated for 5 years using the graveyard method with non-durable Ceiba
pentandra as a control. Durability parameters assessed were visual durability ratings, hardness, and mass
losses. C. pentandra usually performed worst in all parameters. Generally, a steady increase exists in
degradation from the thickest stakes (500 50 25 mm) to the thinnest (62.5 6.25 3.13 mm). Thus,
the greater the stake dimension, the smaller its visual durability rating, mass and hardness losses (i.e.
more durable). However, few discrepancies occurred, as the thinnest stakes were often buried deep in
the soil, decreasing their chances of getting attacked. M. excelsa remained harder and more durable for
stakes of all dimensions (especially the thickest) than those of S. rhinopetala. However, the thinnest
M. excelsa stakes unexpectedly recorded mean mass loss of 4.9%, compared with 2.1% for S. rhinopetala.
The study shows wood dimension significantly affects its durability, which would inform timber engineers
about their wood dimension choices for appropriate end-uses.
Description
Article published in the International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation,2010
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International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation 64 (2010) 267e273