ASTM D5583-06

This test method is intended for use with any preservative that is of uniform composition and not so tightly bound to the wood or so water insoluble that it cannot diffuse in the culture medium on which the assay fungus is grown (1, 2, 3).² It is especially applicable to monitoring non-pressure treated millwork and other wood items (4), but it can be used to determine approximate preservative retentions at prescribed locations in pressure-treated wood (5). When measuring longitudinal preservative penetration, as is especially useful with millwork, the wood can be sampled on the end grain. The assay also provides a reliable means of observing losses of preservative retention in wood during service (or experimentally subjected to particular environmental conditions). This test method is not intended for comparing preservatives nor for estimating retentions of a preservative of variable composition, such as creosote. It can be used, however, for comparing relative potencies of such preservative.

1.1 This test method covers a non-chemical, biological procedure for assaying wood for approximate preservative content (Note 0). It requires minimal equipment and technical proficiency. No costly equipment is needed other than a small autoclave for preparing fungal media. Since this test method does not require composite samples to ascertain preservation retentions, therefore it is used to assess retention at individual locations.

With appropriate, simple adaptation, the method can be used with other products besides wood, such as fungicidal paints and glues. The assaying is done wherever it is convenient, since aseptic precautions are not required except for maintaining a pure stock culture of the assay fungus.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.