The Structural, Physical, and Mechanical Properties of Wood from Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Affected by Scots Pine Blister Rust

Abstract

The objective of this work was to examine the effects of Scots pine blister rust on the quality of Scots pine wood. The research material was taken from tree parts with visible symptoms of fungal infection as well as from unaffected tree parts. Our results show that the effects of the fungus Cronartium pini (Willd.) Jørst. are local and do not prevent the use of wood, and especially its unaffected fragments. Statistical analysis was used to describe the ways in which the pathogen altered wood. While the fungus statistically increased wood density, it significantly diminished its strength parameters. The structural properties of infected and healthy wood from affected trees were found to be similar and much higher than the average values for Scots pine. The higher transverse parameters of wood fibers had a beneficial effect on morphological properties. Scots pine blister rust significantly decreased wood homogeneity, which, together with stem deformation, lowered the quality of timber and reduced its yield.