ISSN:
1432-5225
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
,
Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Production Engineering, Mining and Metallurgy, Traffic Engineering, Precision Mechanics
Notes:
Summary Wood samples varying in age from 900 to 4400 years were investigated with the electron microscopes (TEM, SEM) and polarized light microscopy as well as by analysis of the mechanism of fracture. The weakest parts of the structure, and therefore the most susceptible to failure, are the middle lamella/S1 region and the interfibrillar matrix. Parts of the wall exhibit fissures, cracks and loss of adhesion, not found in recent wood. Studies of the fractured surfaces confirm a change in the micromorphology of the old wood samples. In spite of the breakdown of certain elements at ultrastructural level the samples had retained almost their normal macroscopic appearance and properties. As long as the main reinforcing structural elements, the microfibrils, remain intact, the major properties of wood do not apparently undergo drastic changes.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00353388
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