Nondestructive evaluation of potential quality of creosote-treated piles removed from service

Stress-wave-based nondestructive evaluation methods were used to evaluate t he potential quality and modulus of elasticity (MOE) of wood from creosote- treated Douglas-fir and southern pine piles removed from service. Stress-wa ve measurements were conducted on each pile section. Stress-wave propagatio n speeds were obtained to estimate the MOE of the wood. Tests were then con ducted on octagonal cants, boards, and small clear specimens obtained from piles and cants. Regression analyses gave a reasonably useful correlation b etween the stress-wave-based MOE of piles and cants and the corresponding f lexural properties of boards and small clear specimens determined by transv erse vibration and static bending techniques, respectively. The results sho w that wood from creosote-treated piles removed from service has the potent ial for use in exterior structural applications.