Resistance of wood modified with different technologies against Mediterranean termites (Reticulitermes spp.)

Abstract

[EN] A laboratory no-choice test following the standard EN-117 was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of wood modified with different technologies against subterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes spp. European beech modified with DMDHEU, acetylated radiata pine, and furfurylated Southern yellow pine were used for termite testing. Before the bioassay, half the number of the specimens (including controls) was subjected to an accelerated aging test according to EN-84. The specimens were exposed for 8 wk to the termites. Additionally, mass losses were measured. The results indicated that the feeding pressure was sufficient according to EN-117 for a valid test. Acetylated wood and DMDHEU-modified wood were classified as durable, showing excellent termite resistance. Furfurylated wood was resistant in the case of non-leached specimens; however, the leaching process led to a classification of non-durable. Thus, the new modification technologies open a real possibility of their use in the Mediterranean region as alternative preventive treatments against subterranean termites. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.