The tetrahydroxyborate ion [B(OH)4-] acts by complexation with poly-ols and probably attacks decay fungi through extracellular substrate sequestration; intracellular substrate sequestration; enzyme inhibition; and change in membrane function. Work was carried out to investigate this further and to try to explain certain phenomena observed in the area of boron preservation. The effect of Na borate in the presence of different concentrations or various carbohydrates upon the radial growth rate of certain fungi was investigated; along with parallel experiments on the activity of 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase as an example of a borate inhibited enzyme system. It was found that upon the addition of certain poly-ols, the inhibitory effect of borate on both fungal growth and enzyme activity could be reduced. These results have been used in the development of our understanding of the mechanism of action of borates as wood preservatives. The commonly held belief that certain mould species are resistant to borates may also need re-evaluation.

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