One-step test for early detection of decay.

Billions of dollars are spent annually to replace the wood destroyed by decay fungi. Damage from these destructive fungi can occur even before signs of a problem are seen. Early detection is key to prolonging the service life of wood products.

Researchers at the Forests Products Laboratory have developed a one-step test to determine if decay fungi are present in wood.

"The decay fungi test is very easy to use," says microbiologist Carol Clausen. "You simply take a small sample of wood and soak it in the liquid provided in the test kit. When the liquid is applied to the test cassette, a color change occurs if decay fungi are present." The test works by detecting the presence of an enzyme produced by decay fungi.

The decay test can be used for a wide variety of applications. Inspectors, millwork companies, structural engineers, and woodcrafters will find many uses, including building inspections, historical restorations, and general maintenance of wood products.

Homeowners also can benefit from use of the test. If decay is detected early enough, its progress can be stopped before it causes structural damage, and maintenance costs can be reduced. Knowing where decay is present will reduce maintenance costs and prevent unnecessary replacement of wood.

The test kit has been patented, and licensing and commercialization are pending.

(Adapted from NewsLine, a publication of the USDA Forest Products Laboratory. For information, contact Carol A. Clausen, research microbiologist with the USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, by phone at [phone], by e-mail at [e-mail], or on the Internet at www.fpl.fs.fed.us. Or contact Frederick Green III, Research Microbiologist with the USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, by phone at [phone] or by e-mail at [e-mail].)