Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that allows people to explore and interact with computer generated environments using devices that stimulate different senses (sight, sound and touch). VR is mainly used for education, training and entertainment, but it also has the potential to provide new insights into scientific phenomena. We describe our work on the use of VR as a learning tool for students taking a course in wood protection. Students taking this course used a fully immersive VR device to explore and interact with realistic computer-rendered X-ray micro-computed tomography graphics of the micro-structure of the following timbers: (a) The silica-containing, marine-borer resistant wood, satinay (Syncarpia hillii F.M. Bailey); (b) Southern pine (Pinus spp.) treated with either micronized copper azole (MCA) or alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) preservative, and a wood-plastic composite containing zinc borate as a biocide and a fire retardant. Students used VR to explore the distribution of silica in turpentine and copper in ACQ and MCA-treated pine. They were then surveyed to assess their views on the VR system as a learning tool. Students were very positive about the VR system, and they frequently commented that the system was better than traditional methods at aiding understanding of wood protection. We conclude that X-ray micro-CT based virtual reality systems have a bright future as a learning tool to help students and the general public understand how biocides can protect wood from biological deterioration. Further research is required to develop a more comprehensive library of treated woods especially when challenged by biological organisms.

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