WBF Standard Rot Test

[shamus]

Discussions of various means of rot prevention occur here from time to time, such as the engine oil thread which re-surfaced recently. As this forum seems destined to last for decades it would be useful to have a standard rot test. Many durability ratings of timber found in texts relate to in-ground applications which are not really relevant. So I think we need a test which is reasonably easy to set up, mimics the damp cycling that occurs when a leak lets in fresh water when it rains (which seems to be the most destructive occurrence) and somewhat limited ventilation. The last one is a bit tricky. I'm sure all our boats are pretty well ventilated, because we know this is vital. But they will all have areas that are less than ideally ventilated too.

Well, I'm only an amateur, so over to the scientists and engineers for suggestions, serious or otherwise.

[ssor]

Many if not most of the wood distroying fungus simply go dormant when there is insuffient water and start growing again when the moisture level is high enough. None of the wood species that I am familar with will rot when kept dry. Birch and willow will rot in a heart beat if the conditions are right. all of the rest fall somewhere above that in durability. The wood handbook list of durable and non durable species is reliable.

[shamus]

Yes: I was thinking more of testing treatments intended for protection in damp situations. Norm Messinger, I remember used to coat various pieces of timber and test them against untreated, and report here.

[ssor]

The wood encyclopedia has that pretty well covered. I was looking at that after my post and it has reported that the expermental forestry station in Harrison, MS has tested just about every permutation of chemicals and solvent carriers the can be conceived.

[shamus]

What do they say about engine oil then?

[ssor]

Used engine oil is used as a carrier for some of the toxins but never used alone.