Mechanical and chemical properties of blue stained wood
IRG/WP 09-10686
M Humar, V Vek, B Bučar
Discoloration of wood is frequently caused by blue-staining fungi. In the previous researches there was general opinion that blue-stain fungi do not influence mechanical properties. On the other hand, there were some opposite results reported as well. In order to elucidate this issue, specimens made of Pinus sylvestris sapwood were exposed to two the most frequent and important blue stain fungi Aureobasidium pullulans and Sclerophoma pithyophila for various periods between two and eight weeks. Before and after exposure, FTIR, weight, colour and modulus of elasticity measurements were performed. The data obtained showed, that blue stain fungi besides considerable discoloration, does not cause any significant damage to wood. Surprisingly the non-destructive MoE analysis showed, that modulus of elasticity even slightly increase after the experimental exposure.