Primary goal

Smouldering is a major problem associated with the use of chromated copper arsenate (CCA) in bushfire prone areas and threatens continued use of this preservative. In essence, a rapidly moving bushfire appears to cause only slight damage to CCA treated timbers, but smouldering reactions beneath the surface continue until the timber fails.

Recent UQ research has shown that copper-based systems all foster smouldering. This poses a major problem, given the heavy dependence on copper-based systems for in-ground timber use. We have begun a PhD project to look at low cost, leach-resistant additives that can be added to treatment solutions to reduce the risk of smouldering without affecting performance. The project is based upon unpublished prior research and will focus on CCA for the start but examine the other copper-based systems as well.

Key benefit

Developing methods for inhibiting smouldering will help support continued use of copper-based preservatives, which are critical for exterior
exposures, especially in soil contact.

Progress

This project commenced in 2022 and is set to be completed in 2026.

Lead researchers

Luis Yerman, Wenxuan Wu, Zeinab Darabi (UQ)

Sustainable Development Goals

This project works towards these UN Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 15: Life on Land
• SDG 13: Climate Action