The durability, chemical and mechanical properties of 40 years old black locust posts

This study investigated the performance of 40-year-old black locust ( Robinia pseudoacacia ) posts, previously employed in a vineyard. Wood from these posts was compared with wood from recently harvested wood to assess their potential for reuse. Visual inspection, hyperspectral imaging, chemical analysis and laboratory tests were utilised to evaluate decay, density, mechanical properties and extractive content. The older posts exhibited superior mechanical properties compared to the newly harvested wood. The older posts noted a higher density, indicating their superior quality. The heartwood of old black locust posts contained more extractives and phenolic compounds than the recently harvested wood. Minimal decay was revealed, classifying the wood into durability classes 1 or 2. No difference was observed in the inherent durability between the older and recent wood. The findings of this research demonstrate that 40-year-old black locust posts maintain exceptional durability and mechanical properties, rendering them suitable for reuse in outdoor applications. • This study investigated the performance of 40-year-old black locust vineyard posts. • The older posts exhibited superior mechanical properties compared to the new ones • Minimal decay was revealed, classifying the wood into durability classes 1 or 2. • 40-year-old black locust posts maintain exceptional durability and mechanical properties • The heartwood of old black locust posts contained more extractives than new ones