Many commonly used wood species can deteriorate when exposed to the growth of wood-degrading organisms. Wood products can be protected from the attack of decay fungi, harmful insects, or marine borers by applying chemical preservatives. Preservative treatments greatly increase the life of wood structures, thus reducing replacement costs and allowing more efficient use of forest resources. The degree of protection achieved depends on the preservative used and the proper penetration and retention of the chemicals. Some preservatives are more effective than others, and some are more adaptable to certain use requirements.  

 

Not only are different methods of treating wood available, but treatability varies among wood species—particularly their heartwood, which generally resists preservative treatment more than does sapwood. Although some tree species possess naturally occurring resistance to decay and insects many are in short s­­upply or are not grown in ready proximity to markets. This course will provide the student with basic concepts and treatments methods for wood preservation. 

The student will learn about wood preservatives, including waterborne, oil-type preservatives as well as treatments with ICC- ES evaluation reports.  

 

The student will learn about wood treatments for wood composites, water- repellent and non-pressure treatments.  

 

The student will learn how to select preservatives, and preservative effectiveness.  

 

The student will learn how to evaluate new preservatives.  

 

The student will learn about the effects different wood species have on penetration.  

 

The student will learn about preparation of wood for treatment, including the processes of peeling, drying conditioning green products, incising, and cutting and framing.  

 

The student will learn about different applications of preservatives, including the pressure and non-pressure processes and the effect on mechanical properties.  

 

The student will learn about quality assurance for treated wood and how to inspect treatment quality.  

 

The student will learn about the effects of wood treatment on the environment and proper techniques to recycle and dispose of treated wood.