As part of a comprehensive study on the influence of drying on heartwood permeability, the distribution of copper, chromium and arsenic (CCA) in lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl.) and white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss.) heartwood was examined with light microscopy. Stained microtomed sections were examined to determine the penetration pathway for the CCA. The microscopic observations revealed clear differences in the distribution of the various components in the various cells in the CCA treated wood, particularly those associated with ray cells and resin canals. At the limit of CCA penetration, it was clear from the intensities of the staining in the section, that the ray cells and resin canals were primary avenues solution penetration to the tracheids. Higher levels of components of CCA were observed associated with the resin canals and ray cells than with the tracheids.

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