Understanding the basic mechanisms of fungal and bacterial degradation of wood is fundamental for the future development of new targeted wood preservatives. Research here is concentrated on the use of biochemical, microscopical (light and electron microscopical) and immunological techniques for revealing novel pathways of lignocellulose mineralization in-vitro and in naturally degraded woody materials. Research is carried out on the mechanisms utilized by all three major forms of fungal (i.e. white, brown and soft rot) and in addition bacterial decay. Collaborative research occurs together with the Institute of Microbiology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic and the Department of Wood Science, University of Maine, USA.

Biology of marine borers

The protection of wooden constructions installed in marine environments continues to be a major worldwide problem. In the present work, the biology of marine boring animals (i.e. shipworms and crustaceans) and their biodegradation of treated wood is being studied under laboratory and in-service tropical and temperate situations. Collaborative research occurs with the National Forest Products Laboratory, University of the Andes, Venezuela.

Contact person: Geoffrey Daniel