Halogenated furanones that are analogues of natural compounds extracted from the red seaweed Delisea pulchra were examined in the laboratory for activity against termites and decay fungi. The furanones were found to have broad spectrum activity, some with solution strengths of 0.01% controlling Coptotermes acinaciformis in a filter paper trial, while 2% solutions impregnated into Pinus radiata blocks also gave control. Some furanones prevented growth on filter papers by Perenniporia tephropora (white rot) and Coniophora olivacea (brown rot) at 1% solution concentration. In treated P. radiata specimens, one of the furanones prevented decay by P. tephropora and Trametes lilacino-gilva while there was some decay by C. olivacea. When blocks were artificially weathered and leached, fungi were not controlled. Furanones have potential as termiticides for the protection of house framing, while further research is required for protection against decay fungi in exposed leaching environments.

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