Inorganic wood preservatives: ecological and human significance

In today's world, the preservation of the environment and human health is becoming an increasingly urgent issue. One aspect of this problem is the use of inorganic wood preservatives, which can have both positive and negative consequences for the environment and human health.

Wood is one of the most frequently used natural resources in construction and furniture production. However, without adequate protection, wood is prone to decay due to biological influences and atmospheric conditions. The use of inorganic preservatives can significantly extend the life of wood products, but also carries potential risks.

Inorganic wood preservatives are usually used to ensure the durability of wooden structures, protection against pests, fungi and weathering.

Main types of means

• Borates (for example, boric acid) – used to protect wood from rot, fungi and termites. Borates are effective because they penetrate deep into the wood and provide long-lasting protection.
• Fluorides (for example, sodium fluoride) – these substances are also used to protect wood from various pests and fungi. They are effective, but their use may be limited due to potential toxicity to humans and animals if used carelessly.
• Silicates (for example, potassium silicate) – form a protective barrier on the surface of the wood that repels water and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
• Copper preparations (for example, copper sulfate) – copper is very effective against a wide range of wood pests, including fungi and bacteria. Preparations based on copper can be used in the form of immersion or as a coating.
• Zinc compounds – zinc is also used to protect wood, in particular against mold and fungi.

These tools are used in different forms, depending on the requirements for protection and conditions of use of the wood. It is important to choose the right protective agent, taking into account the type of wood and the specifics of use, to ensure effective protection without unnecessary harm to the environment or people's health.

In order to minimize the negative impact of inorganic wood preservatives on the environment and human health, it is possible to apply methods of ecological management of hazardous waste  several approaches can be applied:

• Limiting the use of hazardous chemical compounds: choosing safer, less toxic alternatives can reduce the negative impact on the environment and human health. This may include using products that contain less heavy metals or are biodegradable.
• Using barrier coatings: applying special barrier coatings to the surface of wood, which can prevent the evaporation of toxic substances from wood preservatives, reduces the risk of their inhalation or release into the environment .
• Application Control: Regular monitoring and limiting the amount of inorganic pesticides used can help reduce the total amount of toxins released into the environment. It is also important to ensure proper storage and disposal of residues of these agents (D15).
• Training and certification: specialized training for workers working with inorganic wood preservatives can ensure their safer use and minimize health impacts.
• Substitution for organic products: Where possible, replacing inorganic pesticides with organic alternatives that are less harmful to the environment can be an effective way to reduce negative impacts.
• Technology improvements: The development and implementation of new technologies that allow the use of lower doses of protective agents without reducing their effectiveness can also help reduce environmental impact.

Inorganic wood protection products.  Code according to the National List of Waste 03 02 04* Operations according to Appendices 1, 2 to the Law of Ukraine “On Waste Management” D10, D15. Code according to Annexes VIII, IX to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Utilization/Removal А4040 (AD030).

Information about the company UtilVtorProm

The company "UtilVtorProm" we are actively working on the recycling market in Ukraine, using modern technologies to ensure safe and efficient processing of materials. More information about the company's activities and services can be found on the official website утилизация.ukr.

The use of advanced technologies and a comprehensive approach to material processing allow to ensure a high level of environmental safety and efficiency of their activities in the field of inorganic wood protection products.