Thermal Damage To Construction Materials by Termites (Isoptera)

Abstract:
Wood construction materials were exposed to eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes, for 8 wk to determine termite damage and changes in thermal properties. Termite tunnels allowed heat to flow unobstructed through the sample resulting in ~35% increase in temperature (damaged vs. undamaged) despite a small amount (6.7% consumed) of damage. Once damaged (3.1% consumed) by termites, plywood was the most thermally damaged with a temperature increase of 74% (damaged vs. undamaged samples). Insulation was significantly the most damaged with ~12% of the material removed by termites. Termites excavated rigid board insulation and consumed the paper which lined the outside surface; they also scarified the aluminum foil surface. In rigid foam board insulation termites formed extensive tunnels resulting in temperature increasing ~27% (damaged vs. undamaged).