Development of a non-destructive spectroscopic method for the evaluation of the natural durability

The objective of this study was to find spectroscopic methods for fast and low cost evaluation of the natural durability (resistance to fungi) of four technically and economically significant species: oak, chestnut, teak and Douglas-fir. Two spectral zones were studied: the visible spectrum and the near infra-red spectrum. Spectro-colorimetry makes it possible to establish statistically relevant models, but is of little or no use in establishing a reliable and robust evaluation of natural durability. The use the near infra-red spectroscopy makes it possible to obtain useful models, and although reliability and robustness are good, it must be improved for routine use. This implies the use of training samples, covering the total range of variation, are required to analyze and implement more elaborate chimiometric methods. In the case of the very durable species, the standard test is not very discriminating, and its improvement for these species should be considered in order to extend the range of variation of the natural durability parameters and to allow the development of more precise models. (Texte intégral