Chapter 27 In-Process Protection of Wood Composites: An Industry Perspective

摘要

Wood-based composites are commonly used as construction materials. In many of these applications, there is a potential for fungal and insect attack (e.g. millwork, sheathing, exterior siding, and decking). Traditional pressure, spray, and dip treatments suitable for solid lumber typically cannot be employed to treat wood-based composites. In-process application of preservative formulations, however, has proven to be a feasible option. Inorganic borate systems, particularly zinc borate, have an established commercial track record. Their success as an in-process preservative system can be attributed to meeting five basic attributes: they are relatively safe to use, have minimal environmental impact, have regulatory acceptance, are compatible with most wood composite manufacturing processes, and are economical. This chapter discusses the use of in-process preservative systems from a North American industrial perspective, and is aimed at formulation chemists who are developing biocides for in-process treatment by the wood composite industry. This chapter is based on the oral presentation, "In-Process Protection of Wood Composites: An Industrial Perspective" by authors Merrick and Gnatowski at the ACS 229th National Meeting In San Diego, CA, March 16, 2005.