The
microscopic organisms that discolor and decay wood belong to
a group of primitive plants known as fungi. Unable to produce
their own food, fungi feed instead on natural substances (symbiosis)
that make up organic materials like leather, cloth, paper, and
of course wood.
These organisms release millions of dust-size spores that are
distributed by air movement. These spores germinate, producing
thread-like
filaments called hyphae. The enzymes secreted by hyphae break
down organic matter so fungi can feed on it.
Before this fungi can attack wood, certain requirements must
be met: oxygen must be present, temperatures must be in the 40
to 100 degree Fahrenheit range, there must be a supply of sufficient
moisture, and there has to be a food source . Infection can be
prevented by eliminating any one of these requirements.
The most
effective "method" of preventing fungal deterioration
of wood is to keep it dry. The decay of the wood is caused by
the chemicals dissolving nutrients in the wood, the nutrients
are then absorbed by the fungal hyphae, enabling the growth to
take place. If the moisture content is high enough the growth
extends through the wood via a network of fine threads called
mycelium. As with any fungus, the spores are ever present in
the dormant stage, awaiting proper conditions to grow. At this
time, some of the filaments penetrate below the surface, first
softening and then destroying the wood.
|
