How to choose a wood preservative?
The chemical composition of wood preservatives is dependent upon the intended subsequent use of the impregnated timber and upon the biological hazards to which it will be exposed. These criteria are taken into account in selecting the various chemicals and in determining the proportions in which they are used. To be effective, a wood preservative must possess the following properties: • toxicity towards wood-destroying organisms • ability to penetrate deeply into wood • permanence in the treated wood • it must not have damaging effects on the wood itself • it must be non-corrosive to metals • it must not damage the health of those involved in its manufacture, transport or use in the impregnation plants, or any buyers or consumers of impregnated timber. All European countries have regulations and reliable procedures for assessing and evaluating the afore-mentioned properties. Approval of the wood preservative is not given until all relevant examinations by the proper authorities have be
