Wood Microbiology: Decay and Its Prevention

Wood Microbiology, Second Edition, presents the latest advances in wood decay and its prevention. Coverage includes classification of fungi and bacteria, factors affecting growth and survival, fungal metabolism, and wood chemistry. There are also chapters that focus on the anatomical aspects, chemical changes, and ultrastructural effects of wood decay. Additionally, this book discusses major issues associated with wood decay, detecting decay, and how to take protective action against it. This is a one-stop reference resource for wood scientists, wood processing and preserving professionals, foresters and forest pathologists, as well as students of forestry, and wood science and technology courses. It is authored by two leading experts with over 80 years of experience working with timber durability.

Contents: 

1. Introduction to wood microbiology 2. Wood deterioration agents 3. The characteristics and classification of fungi and bacteria 4. Factors affecting the growth and survival of fungi in wood (fungal ecology) 5. Fungal metabolism in relation to wood decay 6. The decay setting: some structural, chemical, and moisture features of wood in relation to decay development 7. General features, recognition, and anatomical aspects of wood decay 8. Chemical changes in wood caused by decay fungi 9. Ultrastructural features of wood decay 10. Changes in the strength and physical properties of wood caused by decay fungi 11. Colonization and microbial interactions in wood decay 12. Decays originating in the stems of living trees 13. Biodeterioration of stored wood and its control 14. Molds, stains, and discolorations 15. Decay problems associated with some major uses products 16. The detection of internal decay 17. Paint mildew and related degradative problems 18. Natural decay resistance (wood durability) 19. Chemical protection of wood (wood preservation) 20. Some trends in wood microbiology research and a new emphasis (biotechnology)

Author Biography: Robert A. Zabel was a former Professor at SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry. Sadly now deceased, but he was a major contributor to the first edition of Wood Microbiology. Professor Zabel taught at ESF for over 40 years and this revised edition is based upon notes from his course. Jeffrey Morrell is the Director at the National Centre of Timber Durability and Design Life, University of the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Australia. He has over 40 years of experience working with timber durability, including 35 years at Oregon State University teaching and supervising the durability program.