Termite Lunch Box Field Test Method

 

Among the various methods used to test wood products against termite attack in above ground situations, the "lunch box" technique has several interesting advantages in providing for termite ingress and attack of the test materials, while keeping unwanted pests from the test setup. Originally developed at the CSIRO in Melbourne Australia, it has also been used extensively in Queensland and tested elsewhere.

The simplicity and cost of the procedure is attractive, although the relatively short durability of the plastic lunch boxes when exposed to UV during the test period can be a drawback. The test has to some degree been supplanted by various "drum" methods which offer greater durability, but remains an actively used method.

This Australian procedure, as well as the drum method, can be found described in the AWPC Protocols.

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