A new boron impregnation technique of wood by vapor boron of boric acid to reduce leaching boron from wood

This study was designed to reveal impregnation ability and to enhance leaching resistance of boron from borate-treated wood. Vapor boron treatment was applied in compressed and uncompressed states at high temperatures such as 180 and 200°C for 6, 8 and 15 min. Following ten-cycle leaching periods, amounts of boron leached from vapor boron treated wood was measured by ion chromatography. According to the results, boric acid can be vaporized under heat and can be impregnated into wood. Success of the technique can be increased by increasing vapor pressure in a closed chamber. Leachability results proved the boron vaporization along with water vapor at various ratios depends on the process variables. These results have importance on dry wood treatment under heat by boron vapor with a little water presence which does not necessitate a further drying process.