Update on the use of borates as preservatives for wood composites

Zinc borate is currently being used in the United States as an antifungal and antitermitic preservative for wood composites. A considerable amount of research has been done that-supports this use of zinc berate, including extensive field testing. Results from recent work and updates from field testing are presented in this paper. Field research includes above-ground lap-joints, field stakes, and termite-specific testing performed in Hawaii and Florida, as well as depletion results from above-ground and ground-contact exposure. The data presented shows that zinc berate is an effective preservative for aspen flake composites when used in appropriate exposure conditions.