Wood preserving agents

General Information:

PCP (Pentachlorophenol), is a standardized oil-borne preservative used commercially for preserving wood. PCP was used as a herbicide, defoliant, mossicide and disinfectant. Due to its high toxicity and its slow biodegradation, the use of PCP has declined.

PCPs are stored in fatty tissue. Side effects of a chronic exposure to wood preservatives are allergies and a general increase in chemical sensitivity.

PCP can be detected for several weeks after exposure.

Besides its agricultural uses, lindane was used in forestry for wood and timber protection (also see Pesticides).

Research:

Karmaus W., Wolf N. Reduced Birthweight and Length in the Offspring of Females exposed to PCDFs, PCP, and Lindane. Environmental Health Perspectives. Vol 103. No12, 1995