Durability of CCA B Treated Plywood with Nonconforming Penetration Patterns

Pressure treatment of commercial plywood constructed of western wood species, which subsequently exhibited penetration patterns not meeting industry standards for preservative distribution, caused concern regarding projected use for All Weather Wood Foundations. Test stakes from one panel of Douglas-fir plywood having spruce crossbands, commercially treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA-B) preservative, were analyzed for chemical retention and distribution according to industry standards. Stakes were exposed in the ground at a test plot at the University of Florida, Austin Cary Forest, Gainesville, Florida. After 8 years of in-ground exposure to severe decay and termite conditions, detailed inspection of all treated specimens showed no attack by either decay or insects. These results indicate that such plywood may still be suitable for ground contact exposure if it meets retention specifications even though penetration patterns may be erratic and nonconforming.

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