What does structural integrity of wood refer to?

The structural integrity of wood primarily refers to its durability and strength, which are essential for its performance in various applications, including aviation. This concept encompasses how well the wood can withstand forces without failing, which is crucial when wood is used in structural components of aircraft.

Durability relates to the wood's ability to resist wear, decay, and environmental factors, ensuring that it maintains its performance over time. Strength refers to the wood's capacity to support loads without deforming or breaking. Understanding structural integrity helps engineers and manufacturers select the right type of wood for specific applications, ensuring both safety and efficiency in aviation contexts.

While other aspects like appearance, weight, flexibility, and moisture levels contribute to the overall characteristics of wood, they are not the primary indicators of its structural integrity. Thus, focusing on durability and strength is critical when assessing the suitability of wood in its structural roles.