Analysis of boron diffusion in red oak and white oak
Date
1993
Authors
Blau, Kevin Paul
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Abstract
Wood deterioration due to fungi and insects is widespread in the United States and is costing millions of dollars each year. The estimated cost for just controlling termites is $3.5 billion per year (Laks and Palardy, 1990). Controlling these wood destroying insects and fungi is becoming more difficult each year because of environmental concerns and the close regulations being placed on insecticides and fungicides. One of the most widely used insecticides to control termites in the U.S. was chlordane. Chlordane is a chlorinated hydrocarbon that is injected into the soil around and below the wood structure to be protected. Because of environmental risks the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1988 banned the use of chlordane (Laks and Palardy, 1990; Williams, 1990b). Also in the 1980's severe restrictions were placed on the use of many wood preservatives such as pentachlorophenol and creosote (Anonymous, 1984 and 1986). Because of these regulations, a more environmentally safe wood preservative will have to be used. Borates may be that safe wood preservative. This study looks at analyzing boron diffusion in red and white oak. The information from this study will give the treating industry a better understanding of boron diffusion. Quite possibly with research and innovation, borates may become the best choice for wood preservation in the future.
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