Written by Tom Rickerby, Wesbeam Technical Manager.
Buildings and building materials subject to high chemical exposure can often deteriorate. The rate of deterioration is due to the severity of the corrosive environment and the materials used.
Timber is resistant to strong acids (down to pH of 2), and strong alkalis (up to a pH of 10). Steel framing, in particular light-gauge steel sections can be susceptible to corrosion and can reduce the expected serviceable life of the structure.
Generally, softwoods (such as pine) resistance to chemical attack is greater than that of hardwood.
A materials chemical resistance is an important design consideration, particularly in commercial applications such as industrial storage facilities or warehouses, and buildings in salt water spray zones.
Wesbeam’s Structural Engineering + Design Division are often involved in the design of structures that require timber framing to suit the environmental conditions.
This includes:
The design of e-joist floor frames in coastal conditions
The design of e-joist floor joists in industrial mezzanine floors
The design of e-beam rafters in industrial warehouse applications
To discuss the use of engineered timber in your next project, contact the Wesbeam Structural Engineering + Design Division.
