In the quest for sustainable and effective wood preservation, a groundbreaking study led by Jyoti Papola from the Wood Properties and Processing Division at the Institute of Wood Science and Technology in Bengaluru, India, has shed new light on the potential of combining organic fungicides with inorganic salts. Published in the journal ‘Sustainable Chemistry for the Environment’ (which translates to ‘Sustainable Chemistry for the Environment’), the research delves into the antifungal properties of these combined treatments, offering a promising avenue for the construction and energy sectors.
Wood, a staple in construction, is particularly vulnerable to bio-deteriorating agents due to its organic composition. Traditional preservatives, while effective, have raised environmental and health concerns, prompting a shift towards more eco-friendly solutions. Papola’s study focuses on third-generation preservatives, specifically triazoles, which are carbon-based and have a lower environmental impact. The research explores the synergistic effects of combining these organic fungicides with inorganic salts, aiming to enhance wood durability while minimizing environmental harm.
The study employed a petri plate bioassay to assess the antifungal properties of the combined treatments. Additionally, the researchers tested the efficacy of these preservatives on impregnated mango wood blocks, observing a gradual decline in weight loss percentages against both brown rot and white rot fungi. “The results indicated a gradual decline in weight loss percentages of 2.37% and 3.39% against both brown rot and white rot fungi,” Papola noted, highlighting the potential of this approach in extending the lifespan of wood.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Wood is often used in the construction of energy infrastructure, such as wind turbines and solar panel supports. Ensuring the longevity of these structures is crucial for maintaining the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources. By using a combination of inorganic salts with organic fungicides, the energy sector can benefit from more durable and sustainable wood treatments, reducing maintenance costs and extending the operational life of critical infrastructure.
The research also utilized advanced analytical techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to analyze the microstructure and chemical structure of the treated wood. These analyses revealed that the treated specimens showed less degradation compared to untreated controls, further validating the efficacy of the combined treatment.
“This study opens up new possibilities for sustainable wood preservation,” Papola explained. “By enhancing resistance to fungi and reducing degradation, we can create more durable and environmentally friendly wood products.”
The findings of this study could shape future developments in the field of wood preservation, encouraging the adoption of more sustainable practices. As the demand for eco-friendly construction materials grows, the combination of organic fungicides and inorganic salts offers a promising solution for the construction and energy sectors. The research underscores the importance of continued innovation in wood preservation, paving the way for more sustainable and effective treatments in the future.
