Decay of the components of wood. Despite its highly integrated matrix of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which gives wood superior strength properties and a marked resistance to chemical and microbial attack, a variety of organisms and processes are capable of degrading wood. The decay process is a continuum, often involving a number of organisms over many years. Wood degrading agents are both biotic and abiotic, and include heat, strong acids or bases, organic chemicals, mechanical wear, and sunlight (uv degradation).