This report provides the methods and summarizes the results of Forintek research to characterize the properties of British Columbia lumber containing beetle-transmitted bluestain.
In 2003 Forintek Canada Corp. collected approximately 30 pieces of bluestained lodgepole pine lumber cut from beetle-attacked trees, and an equivalent amount of non-bluestained lumber from each of 14 different sawmills in the B.C. Interior. The geographic range of beetle attack was represented in the sampling plan. The wood was delivered to the Forintek Vancouver laboratory for conditioning and processing into test specimens. The specimens were allocated, in equal proportion from each mill, between tests of mechanical, dimensional stability/permeability, gluing, and finishing properties.
This research represents the first comprehensive study and compilation of the properties of beetle-transmitted bluestained wood. Overall, the research indicates that this wood can be used, without compromising performance, for structural, furniture, and preservative-treated end uses.
A factsheet summarizing the findings produced for customers of bluestained wood is included in the appendix to this report.