The use of microorganisms that are capable to convert chemically fixed inorganic preservative complexes from impregnated wood waste into watersoluble components is investigated. A number of fungi were isolated from deteriorated and initially well-treated wood. They revealed an exceptionally high production of organic acids (pH 2). The fungi were identified and used together with others of the same genus for experiments under non-sterile conditions on a laboratory scale with CCA-, CCB and CC-treated wood at retention levels of at least 50% higher than recommended for wood in ground contact. As a result Cr and As were leached to more than 90% depending on culture conditions, whereas Cu reacts with oxalic acid to a complex with limited water solubility.

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