Losses of CCA components and creosote from treated timber to soil

IRG/WP 97-50098

N J Hudson, R J Murphy

Components of creosote and CCA preservatives can migrate within the wood and move into surrounding soil. However, at present, the ecological significance of such losses is uncertain. This paper examines the distribution of four target polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs ) and of copper, chromium and arsenic in treated stakes and surrounding soil after long term exposure in field trials. Concentrations of CCA components and creosote components showed a sharp decline within 20 mm from treated wood. The distances from treated wood before soil background concentrations were achieved varied, depending upon the individual component of the preservative.


Keywords: PRESERVATIVE; SOIL; CREOSOTE; PAHs; CCA

Conference: 97-05-25/30 Whistler, British Columbia, Canada


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