Wood-based panel products which are made of susceptible wood species may be destroyed by fungi under wet conditions and by termites. The glues do not provide sufficient protection unless very high concentrations are applied. Particle boards and fibre boards are not susceptible to beetle infestation, although some species may attack plywood. Various types of preservatives provide sufficient protection of panel products. These are boron, fluoride, copper, and chromium compounds in the category of water-soluble salts and various organic compounds, including contact insecticides, in the category of nonwater-soluble substances. Their application is influenced by their compatibility with the glue and by the different methods of treatment. For the production of fibreboards oil-borne preservatives are preferred. With regard to particle boards and plywood it is recommended to apply the required preservative loadings prior to the pressing operation, to mix them with the glue or to impregnate the particles or plies and with regard to fibreboards to spray the pressed and cooled down panels with the preservative. The fungus cellar test is the most suitable method for testing the efficiency of a chemical treatment of panel products against fungal attack. With regard to beetle species European standard methods of test are available. There are also laboratory and field methods for evaluating the resistance against termites. Treatment standards are controlled by chemical methods of analysis.

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