New Wood Preservation Without Biocides

New Biocide-Free Wood Protection Archroma introduces Siligen® MIH liq, a new biocide-free wood protection technology developed with Goettingen University. Archroma, a leading company in specialty chemicals for sustainable solutions, has introduced Siligen® MIH liq, a new biocide-free wood protection technology developed in collaboration with Goettingen University in Germany. [caption id="attachment_140000" align="aligncenter"] Siligen® MIH liquid applied and untreated wood exposed to outdoor weather conditions test. (Photo: Goettingen University)[/caption] Wood, a natural raw material, evolves over time, and this is what makes it so unique and beautiful. At the same time, it is a valuable, sustainable and carbon-storing resource that should not be wasted. Wood is particularly sensitive to climate conditions, especially moisture, as well as to fungi, termites and marine organisms. Over time, these can alter wood's strength, stability and durability. Most processes used to protect wood rely on biocides and may contain potentially toxic substances such as heavy metals. Archroma and Goettingen University in Germany therefore decided to find a solution to extend the lifespan and appearance of exterior wood materials. Result: Siligen® MIH liq is a non-biocidal wood modification process for creating more durable solid wood, veneers, wood-based composites, parquet flooring and marine applications for applications such as windows, façade claddings, outdoor furniture, terrace decking, underground platforms and marine applications. It is applied by impregnation followed by drying. Siligen® MIH liq impregnated wood can be dried with equipment already available in most production facilities that apply conventional biocides, and molecules can be fixed at < 80°C. Therefore, energy consumption is comparable to most aqueous biocidal wood protection processes. Wood treated with Siligen® MIH liquid provides excellent protection against rot fungi. Treated wood exhibits improved resistance to weather conditions and retains its natural appearance with less discoloration and feel change. Siligen® MIH liq will be presented at the IRG53 Annual Conference of the International Research Group on Wood Protection (IRG WP) to be held in Bled, Slovenia, between 29 May - 2 June 2022. Prof. Holger Militz, Head of the Department of Wood Biology and Wood Products at Goettingen University in Germany, said: "Our research has focused on developing new wood protection systems for many years. With Siligen® MIH, we have discovered a system that protects wood against fungi and termites without requiring complex treatment technology. Existing vacuum and pressure systems and standard wood dryers are sufficient to use this new technology." Miquel Vila, Head of Global New Markets at Archroma, added: "We are very excited to collaborate with like-minded partners such as Goettingen University. The new biocide-free wood protection technology Siligen® MIH liq is an excellent example of 'Archroma's Way to a Sustainable World: Safe, efficient, advanced, this is our nature', which is our motto." Source