Evaluating the Durability of Wood-Based Composites

Wood-based composites are increasingly used as substitutes for solid lumber in construction. Many evaluation methods for solid wood durability evaluation have been or can be adapted for this purpose, provided that the need for dimensional stability of the composites is accommodated. Improved methods to evaluate their durability need to be developed, discussed, and standardized in order to keep up with the pace of wood-based composite adoption into the market place. There is also a need for methods which are unique to wood-based composites.