Mechanical properties of timber deteriorated by beetles in ancient buildings: an experimental analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyse the loss of physical-mechanical properties of pine wood from old buildings (100 to 200 years old) deteriorated by wood boring beetle (Anobium punctatum, De Geer) and aims to contribute to the safety assessment of structural elements in buildings. The effect of degradation can be considered by assuming the reduction of cross-section properties in case of Anobium punctatum degradation, since the galleries formed within the wood are usually surrounded by a considerable amount of sound wood. In this study, a new methodology was developed for qualitative estimation of degradation levels, which was promising. They were then correlated with results of compression tests parallel to the fibers in specimens with 30×30×90 mm: compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and plastic extension. It has been found that, even at relatively important levels of degradation, the loss of properties is small to moderate.

Keywords

• Wood
• Boring beetles
• Levels of degradation
• Density
• Mechanical strength
• Modulus of elasticity