Boron wood preservation

Boron, as barium metaborate, is marketed as a mildew preventative for paints (273). Borax is used as a wood preservative, and an organic boron, 2,2 -(l-methyltrimethylenedioxy)-bis(4,4,6-trimethyl)-l,3,2-dioxaborinane (Biobor JF) [14697-50-80] is a biocide for jet fuel (274). Whereas tin metal is used to coat steel cans used as food containers, organic tin in the form of tributyl tin compounds have proven to be powerfiil antimicrobials, and have found use in antifouHng coatings for ship bottoms, paints, and wood preservatives (275). 

Boron rods provide an alternative wood preservative, which is considered safe for people and the environment. They are made of boron compounds that have been subjected to high temperatures to form water-soluble, glassllke rods. These rods are Inserted Into drilled holes In the wood, strategically positioned where decay is most likely the holes are then plugged to keep the rods In place. When the wood becomes wet, boric acid is released, which prevents fungal decay. Boron pastes have a similar effect. Manufacturers of boron rods are seeking to make these rods available for home use. 

Dickinson DJ and Murphy RJ (1989) Development of boron based wood preservatives. 

However, as a result of growing concerns regarding leaching of arsenic salt around the home and in children s play areas, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on February 12,2002 a voluntary decision by the industry to move away from the consumer use of CCA-treated lumber by December 31,2003, in favor of new alternative wood preservatives. According to the EPA, these alternatives of CCA are alkaline copper quarternary (ACQ), copper boron azole (CBA), cyprocon-azole, and propioconazole. Besides, as an alternative to pressure-treated wood, EPA has suggested to use WPC materials. 

These products include fiberglass, borosilicate glass, fire retardants, fertilizer, enamels and ceramic glazes, soaps and detergents, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. Boron also has wood preservation, metallurgical, and nuclear (neutron absorption) applications. 

Obanda, D.N., Shupe, T.F., Bames, H.M. Reducing leaching of boron-based wood preservatives—a review of research. Bioresour. Technol. 99, 7312-7322 (2008)... 

LeVan, S.L. and Tran, H.C. 1990. The role of boron in flame retardant treatment. First International Conference on Wood Protection with Dijfusable Preservatives Proceedings, vol. 47355, November 28-30, Nashville, TN, Forest Product Research Society, Madison, WI, pp. 39-41. 

Boron 10. [InClide Tech.] Borate-based fire retardant and preservative for wood. 

Mixed borate salts are very effective as a treatment for the preservation of wood products against fungi and most insects. However, the boron salts, which become localized in high concentration on the veneer surface, tend to gel the phenol resin before it can reach the wood surface and bond to it. However, very dilute aqueous solutions of borates (i.e.,... 

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