Researches revealed that boric acid can play an important role for sterilizing wood instead of heating. Wet (green) mango boards (Mangifera indica L.) were pressure treated in treating cylinder at initial vacuum of 508 mm Hg for 15 minutes and impregnation pressure of 7 kg/cm² for 4 hours with 5% solution (w/v) of 1:1:1 commercial grade (95% pure) sodium dichromate, copper sulphate and boric acid. Penetratons of copper sulphate and boric acid were examined by using standard reagents. Copper sulphate penetrated superficially but boric acid penetrated completely through the boards. In most hazardous conditions during rainy season the treated boards were saved like heatsterilized boards from the attack of decay fungi and insects. Untreated boards (control) were found decayed and damaged within three months with the decrease of strength significantly. Where heatsterilization and kiln-drying are practically impossible during rainy season, wet timbers can be stored after impregnating those with at least 2% solution (w/v) of boric acid which diffuses through wet wood successfully and can protect wood from decay fungi, and wood destroying borers.

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