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If the tension is say X and the tension change is x then the bigger x/X is (i.e drop the tension and that will magically increase) the faster fatigue happens.
I don't think this is correct. Rate of fatigue is dependent on stress range (x in your case), (provided the spoke remains in tension), not the ratio of stress range to overall tension (x/X here).
I agree if spoke tensions are low enough that some lose tension altogether under riding loads then I should expect increased fatigue to the remaining spokes. But if tensions are high enough such that spokes remain tensile at all times, then the rate of fatigue should be same regardless of how high your tension is (assuming you are not exceeding yield obviously)
Hovis
@thecycleclinic
Not interlacing should in theory not make any difference to lateral wheel stiffnes but as I have not tried I cannot confirm this.
If the spokes are slack every revoultion of the wheel results in some lateral and radial delfection (as well as torsional strain) which results in a change of tension of the affected spokes.
If the tension is say X and the tension change is x then the bigger x/X is (i.e drop the tension and that will magically increase) the faster fatigue happens. Essentially what has been said above in repsonse is true. The more flex a wheel has the faster spokes fatigue so the stiffer the wheel the slower this happens. The higher the tension (not related to stiffness) the slower this happens. Set the tension too high and the rim crack (or in the case of Zipp hubs the hub flange)
It's all a balancing act but thankfully the receipe is well known to some.