Effects of diffusion time and kiln drying on borate retention in Cottonwood lumber

Previous studies have shown that borate diffusion treatment of softwoods is effective for long-term protection from decay fungi and insects. Other studies have shown that borate compounds have low toxicity to human beings and the environment. Diffusion treatments of lumber and wood products with borate have been extensively used in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and North America (2, 4, a, 2, 9).