Chemical modification of Rubberwood (Heveabrasiliensis Müll.Arg) with isopropenyl acetate (IPA) in presence of anhydrous aluminum chloride and iodine as catalysts was carried out. Modified wood surfaces were exposed to UV light source in an accelerated weathering tester to evaluate UV resistance. Anti-swelling efficiency (ASE) and fungal resistance of modified wood were also evaluated. Modified wood showed good ASE. Decay resistance of modified wood was evaluated by exposing unmodified and modified wood to a brown rot (P. meliae) and white rot (T. hirsuta) fungi. Results indicate that chemical modification of wood with IPA is effective in restricting photo-yellowing at wood surfaces. Modified wood inhibited decay due to brown rot and white rot fungi. Good ASE, increased fungal resistance and UV resistance of modified wood indicates IPA as a promising reagent for modification of wood.

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