Standardized heartwood blocks of kempas (Koompassia malaccensis), keruing (Dipterocarpus sp.) and tualang (Koompassia excelsa) were impregnated with 0 to 6.3% (w/v) CCA and challenged to decay by a mixed inocula of Chaetomium globosum, Glenospora graphii, Humicola grisea, Petriella setifera and Trichurus spiralis in a containerized vermiculite-burial decay system according to draft CEN/TC 38 WG 4. A similar burial test using unsterile garden soil was included for comparison. The results of a preliminary assessment of a 12 w experiment were recorded (IRG/WP/2354). Due to low mass losses and final block moisture contents after the standard 12 w incubation, the experiments were resumed with the same samples and the above outlined culture conditions. Untreated European beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) was included as reference species. The experiments continued until beech samples reached 25% mass loss in soil-burial test (36 w). Final results are presented and the adaptation of draft EN soft rot test for treated tropical hardwoods are discussed.

Download document (320 kb)
free for the members of IRG. Available if purchased.

Purchase this document