Chile is an important actor in the world wide forestry industry, activity which represents 3,1% of the Gross National Product (GNP). The wood products sector, which includes pulp and paper, is the second source of export in Chile with USD 6,500 millions income per year. Native species are the main forestry source with 15,9 millions has., but the principal commercial activity is based on 2,3 millions has. of plantation forest, 80% of which is Radiata pine and the rest Eucalyptus species for wood pulp production. Treated wood products in Chile are agriculture posts, utility poles and framing. Few wood preservative actives accomplish the requirements set by Chilean regulatory agencies, which are the SAG (chemical registration) approval and the listing in the national standard (NCh 819: Borate, CA-B, CCA, LOSP (Teb/Prop/permetrin) and CA micronized (two versions). Nonetheless CCA represents 95% of the market. Radiata pine is the only species being treated; it is a very permeable wood with a wide sapwood portion. More than 200 treatment plants are located between latitude 33°02’46’’ S and 41°30’S, which produces a total of around 600,000 m3 of treated products. Presently there are no restrictions for CCA use but the State Department of Urban Development (housing authorities) has announced its intention to replace CCA for framing and millwork products, an intention that needs the approval of the Chilean legislation and the Chilean timber industry. Achieving CCA alternative treatment will take a couple of years, since replacement of preservative is currently not being mandated.

Download document (258 kb)
free for the members of IRG. Available if purchased.

Purchase this document