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Title
Microscopic study of lime wood decayed by Chaetomium globosum
Authors
Carmen-Mihaela Popescu Carmen Mihaela Tibirna Al. Manoliu Petronela Gradinariu and Cornelia Vasile
Received
January 20, 2011
Published
Volume 45 Issue 9-10 November-December
Keywords
SEM, biodegradation, lime wood, Chaetomium globosum
Abstract
Wood is degraded by microorganisms, when moisture, oxygen and other environmental factors favour microbial growth. In this study, biodegradation of lime wood was artificially induced for evaluating the damage of lime wood caused by Chaetomium globosum. SEM analysis showed that the fungal hyphae grow almost exclusively in the cellulosic part of the wood cell wall, known as the S2 layer. Initial colonization is caused by the hyphae that enter the tubular wood cells and grow inside them, frequently occurring as distinct decay cavities revealed in longitudinal sections. These cavities are elongated, with sharp pointed ends, occurring as either singular cavities or in chains. The latter are helically oriented, following the microfibrillar angle. Microscopic examination of the interior part of the wood samples showed generalized thinning and erosion of the cell walls, without any localization of decay around the hyphae. The overall effect is that the wood loses its strength and shrinks, developing longitudinal and transverse cracks, which eventually join the wood breaks.
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