Innovations in Wood Protection in the age of Nanotechnology

Abstract

Advances in wood protection based on nanotechnology are being developed to improve resistance of wood products to biodeterioration, reduce environmental impacts from chemical leaching and resist UV degradation of in-service wood. A number of different approaches have been explored. First, the nanometals zinc oxide and copper oxide were evaluated as preservative treatments for wood. Both nanoZnO and nanoCuO were leach resistant. NanoZnO also inhibited decay fungi, acted as a termite toxicant, and provided photostability of wood against UV degradation. Second, self-assembling nanopolymer matrices were permeated with an organic biocide. The porous surface of the nanopolymer encapsulated and retained the biocide until a change in the physical environment, such as elevated temperature, triggered its release. Third, a nanocarrier system utilized inert nanotubules loaded with organic biocides for targeted delivery and slow, controlled release of biocide. Fourth, nanoentrapment assessed the ability of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) to chemically bind and entrap soluble biocides within the wood structure without modifying the wood matrix. Merits of each approach will be discussed. The use of trade or firm names in this publication is for reader information and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture of any product or service. This article was written and prepared by U.S. Government employees on official time, and it is therefore in the public domain and not subject to copyright

Citation

Clausen, Carol A. 2014. Innovations in Wood Protection in the age of Nanotechnology. In: L356 8th Latin American Biodeterioration and Biodegradation Symposium / organizadores: Fátima Menezes Bento, Gelsa Edith Navarro Hidalgo,Christine Claire Gaylarde; Marcia Aiko Shirakawa; Flavio A. O. Camargo. – Porto Alegre : Evangraf, 2014; pp. 96-99.