What is the term used for the wood appearance that results from the destruction of lignin?

The term used for the wood appearance resulting from the destruction of lignin is commonly referred to as "white pocket rot." This type of decay is caused by certain fungi that degrade lignin, leaving behind cellulose, which gives the wood a characteristic light-colored appearance. This decay is particularly damaging because it weakens the structural integrity of the wood while altering its appearance.

In contrast, dark pocket rot, black rot, and wet rot involve different processes and outcomes. Dark pocket rot is indicative of damage from a different type of fungus, often characterized by darkened wood around the decayed areas. Black rot results from the degradation of both cellulose and lignin but often leaves the wood appearing darker and more brittle rather than light. Wet rot typically occurs in wood that is consistently damp, leading to a more general breakdown of the wood without the specific lignin degradation associated with white pocket rot. Understanding these differences is essential for identifying the type of decay affecting wood materials in various environments.