Dear readers,
It’s well known that materials face unique and extreme challenges in maritime environments. Wood, in particular, is exposed to environmental factors that test its resilience, from constant salinity to extreme fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Prevention and comprehensive testing in an independent laboratory help ensure that each piece of wood meets the demands of naval projects.
This article explores how laboratory testing for wood can make the difference between a long-lasting structure and one that fails prematurely. Such testing enables simulation of the wear and tear wood will endure in the marine environment and provides critical data for selecting the appropriate type and treatment to maximise performance.
In a specialised laboratory, wood undergoes thorough characterisation, assessing its moisture content, density, and chemical composition to understand its behaviour under real conditions. Each wood species responds differently to marine conditions; thus, this phase is crucial for evaluating its suitability for various projects. Understanding wood’s specific properties allows for better prediction of its performance and ensures it will retain its structural integrity in adverse conditions.
For projects exposed to coastal conditions, accelerated ageing tests are essential. In a controlled laboratory environment, wood is subjected to tests involving high humidity, UV radiation, freeze-thaw cycles, and salinity to replicate the conditions it will face throughout its lifespan in a marine setting. These tests allow observation of wood degradation and its ability to withstand the passage of time. Based on this data, the appropriate type of wood can be chosen, along with preventive measures to ensure its longevity in marine conditions.
The structural strength of wood is essential in naval construction. Flexion, compression, and tension tests measure its load-bearing capacity. In the laboratory, standards such as ASTM D198 and ASTM D143 are employed to ensure that the data obtained is reliable and applicable for safe and efficient design decisions, providing shipyards and project managers with confidence in choosing suitable materials for their projects.
Beyond load resistance, wood in vessels faces constant wear due to movement and usage conditions. Tests like the shear test and Janka hardness test indicate the extent to which wood can resist impacts and transverse forces. This data enables the specification of durable wood in areas of high traffic and exposure, ensuring both the durability and safety of materials in use.
Wood, though noble, requires scientific backing in marine environments to ensure long-term performance. In every project, an informed decision based on precise data is key to achieving safe and high-quality naval construction. When selecting wood for projects, a detailed analysis in an independent laboratory becomes an essential investment to protect both the value and safety of structures at sea.
Our specialised laboratory team is available for consultation on testing processes and material selection, providing guidance to elevate each project to the next level in terms of quality and durability.