Yellow Stringybark posts with diameters ranging from 60-100 mm were microwave conditioned using a 60 kW microwave (MW) generator. A substantial improvement in heartwood penetration of preservatives and relaxation of growth stresses was indicated such that there was no split formation following drying of the posts. High preservative absorption of copper-chrome-arsenic (CCA) was achieved ranging from 340-400 L/m3, indicating much improved permeability. Microwave conditioning followed by soaking in creosote resulted in total creosote penetration throughout the cross-section. Creosote uptake ranged from 119-168 kg/m3. Control of creosote uptake was achieved by changing the soaking time.

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