Durabilidad natural de la madera de dos especies forestales a la acción de un hongo xilófago con pruebas aceleradas en laboratorio.

Abstract

The research aimed to determine the natural durability of the wood of two forest species to the action of a xylophagous fungus with accelerated tests in the laboratory. The durability was evaluated by the percentage of weight loss of the wooden specimens and with this the interpretation of their resistance through the ASTM D-2017 Standard and the Findlay table against the destructive action of the xylophagous fungus Ganoderma sp. This was used for studies of this type due to its ease in removing lignin. The results detailed a percentage of weight loss greater than 45% for the two forest species. Thus, interpreting that they were woods with a "D" classification and with a degree of resistance "Not resistant" against the xylophagous fungus used. An average useful life of 5 years was attributed. This weight loss was independent of the height level of the stem from which the sample was taken. However, when comparing the weight loss between the two species, G. arborea showed higher values, without affecting the resistance classification. Regarding the relationship of the basic density and the resistance of the species, it did not present any correlation since the resistance classification remained the same for the two species. However, the basic density in general is a good index of durability, but there were numerous exceptions. Similar studies were recommended with the separation of sapwood and heartwood, and through the destructive action of other species of xylophagous fungi.