Effect of a Penta Emulsion on the Service Life of Douglas-Fir, Heartwood Posts

After 204 months, the condition of Douglas fir heartwood posts which had either been untreated, treated by a 48-hour soak in 5 percent pentachlorophenol, or treated by a 1/4- or 1/2-inch coating of a pentachlorophenol emulsion gel and wrapped in polyethylene were compared. Based on the AWPA system of rating sound posts 100 and failed posts 0, mean ratings were: untreated, 20; cold soak treatment, 25; 1/4-inch gel coating and wrap, 100; and 1/2-inch gel coating and wrap, 97. The polyethylene wrap appeared to be significant in promoting penetration of the preservative and protecting the wood from the environment. Coating with a penta gel and wrapping with polyethylene may be a practical, relatively inexpensive method of treating posts for home and farm uses.

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