DOI: 10.36347/sjet.2022.v10i08.001

Pages: 185-205

The major agents for wood decay are decay Fungi, Termites, Beetles and Ants. This article reviews the current methods for treating wood (lumber) which includes the use of heat treatment and chemicals. The chemicals procedures used to resist the agents of decay are mentioned. Each agent of decay is outlined as well as the best preventative measures to resist that agent of wood decay. Construction measures that would help prevent wood decay along with treatment plans are discussed. How each agent of decay causes the wood to rot is mentioned and its warning signs. These warning signs enable the treatment plan for each agent of decay. It is recommended that all lumber (wood) used in construction should be treated before use. There is recommendation for the discontinuation of some wood treatment chemicals because of their danger to humans and pets. 2% Copper Napthenate in Kerosene is highly recommended as a chemical combination that can be used to treat all agents of wood decay. This is important because some chemicals are specific to a particular agent of decay and in this regard more than one treatment is required to hinder the agents of wood decay. A treatment plan for the use of 2% Copper Napthenate in Kerosene is outlined and the use of a Modified Gedrian’s Bath is proposed to treat wood at the commercial level. Engineering dimensions and temperature range for the use of 2% Copper Napthenate in Kerosene using the modified Gedrian’s bath is explained. The dangers of using 2% Copper Napthenate in kerosene is explained but these dangers are superseded by the economics of its use and its broad spectrum against all agents of decay. It is noted the limitations of heat treatment.