Chemically modified wood is currently being marketed as a non-toxic alternative to traditional preservative treated wood (wood impregnated with biocides). Over the last decade the authors have developed modernised processes for wood modified by furfurylation. These new systems do not add metals or halogens to the product, which is important for an environmentally acceptable product. This presentation deals with the environmental aspects and durability of furfurylated wood. Results from several decay tests; emission analysis studies and eco-toxicity tests are presented. . The results show that furfurylated wood is highly decay resistant. There was no significant eco-toxicity of water leached from furfurylated wood and burning furfurylated wood does not release any more volatile organic compounds or poly-aromatic hydrocarbons than normal levels for wood combustion. Durability enhancement by furfurylating wood has not proven to be harmful to the environment. Test results have shown it to have performance similar to traditionally preserved wood. Furfurylated wood has some improved mechanical and physical properties such as increased modulus of elasticity (MOE) and increased anti shrink efficiency (ASE).

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