Wood members saturated with salt 1

[bf343]

Hi everyone. We are doing some work at a salt mine which involves some of the 1969 existing wood members. In checking the wood members for the new loads, the members (in new condition) are adequate. However, the wood members are "furry" from the salt exposure. It appears the salt penetrated the members, crystallized and expanded, causing the surface fibers to break and become furry. I have included a picture. Due to the significant corrosion, we are replacing most of the connections. However, my concern is what has the salt done to the wood members? If the surface fibers have been broken as it appears, I would need to use a reduced net section. Has the salt damaged the interior of the member?

Anybody have any past experience with type of situation?
Thanks

 

[KootK]

I was going to write some stuff but the attached article says it all better and then some. 1) Usually not a big deal 2) Make sure it's not really fungi in action.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

Exposure for 47 years is a long time. Make the measurements and calcs you mention to account for possible reduced structural properties. The best fasteners for use in a salt environment are made from 316 stainless steel.

Wood containing salt may have an advantage in one respect, increased resistance to fire. Have never seen published papers on this but there is suspicion it's true.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[bf343]

Thank you both for the information. I thought the interior of the section would likely be okay, but I didn't find anything to back that up. Thank you for the article. I would also agree with the increased fire resistance of the members.

 

[XR250]

I imagine the salt also would prevent any rot or insect activity