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INVESTIGATOR: Lim, H.; Morrell, JE, J.; Wan, HU, .

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
FOREST AND WILDLIFE RES CENTER
MISSISSIPPI STATE, MISSISSIPPI 39762

CYCLODEXTRINS AS AGENTS FOR IMPROVED PROTECTION METHODS OF ORIENTED STRAND BOARD WOOD COMPOSITES

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: The goal of this proof-of-principle study is to examine the feasibility of using cyclodextrins for stabilization of volatile and leachable biocides for wood composites protection. The need for such improvement is seen in a forecasted significant increase of composites in multi-story housing construction and need for improvement of the current composite protection methods for long-term outside exposures.Cyclodextrins are inexpensive, non-toxic cyclic oligosaccharides that have already found applications in industry. By increasing thermal stability of volatiles, and covalently binding to wood, they have already been proven as potential components of cellulose protection in the paper and packaging industry. In addition to minimizing the deficiencies of volatile and dissolvable compounds, amphiphilic cyclodextrins are also expected to decrease moisture absorptivity of wood enhancing panel mechanical properties.This study will examine all major aspects of wood treatment with cyclodextrin modified preservatives relevant for industrial applications by (1) incorporating biocides into cyclodextrins and treating wood wafers/boards, (2) studying penetration of preservatives into wood structures, (3) testing mechanical properties of boards, (4) examining preservative resistance to leaching, and (5) evaluating board susceptibility to fungal decay. Though the study encompasses one volatile (allyl isothiocyanate) and one water soluble biocide (borate), the knowledge gained will be transferable to broader spectra of comparable preservatives.This project aligns with the Program's goal of Sustainable Use of Natural Resources. It combines approaches of chemistry, microbiology, and materials science to develop the next generation of engineered products while reducing toxic wood disposed material, and decreasing use of heavy metal preservatives.

OBJECTIVES: The long-term goal of the proposed study is to contribute to advancement of environmentally-friendly protection methods of wood composites from fungal degradation. The goal of this proof-of-principle study is to examine the feasibility of using cyclodextrins for stabilization of volatile and leachable biocides for wood composites protection. In particular, the objectives of the study are:1. Production of cyclodextrin allyl isothiocyanate (CD-AITC) and cyclodextrin borates (CD-B) through two approaches: a) complexation before impregnation, and b) simultaneous complexation and wood impregnation in supercritical carbon dioxide2. Impregnation of wood wafers and board manufacturing3. Examination of penetrability of preservation into wood structure4. Measurement of boards' mechanical strength5. Evaluation of resistance to leaching and water repellency6. Examination of resistance of treated composites to decay by fungi