Analysis of biocides or contamination

Wood preservation covers all measures that counteract the destruction and loss of value of wood objects. Wood must be protected against weathering, chemical and biological factors. Fungi, insects and bacteria in particular can severely damage wood structures. Besides wood protection measures through design and construction, for which what type of wood is chosen and how the structure is designed play a significant role, the use of chemical wood preservatives is often indispensible.

The Bernhard Remmers Institut für Analytik offers analysis of modern but also old biocide substances from wood preservatives and wood samples. For example, it is possible to test wood samples for old contaminants such as PCP, DDT, lindane or also chrome salts. These hazardous substances must be initially extracted from the wood sample. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) it is then possible to identify the extracted substance and determine its quantity. It is also possible to assess whether wood preservatives have been correctly applied, e.g. verify that the wood has absorbed the required quantities of preservatives.

Besides the analysis of wood samples, the institutes processes also fresh material, such as coating products or raw materials. Thus it is possible to monitor and assure the implementation of the ever more strict legal requirements for modern wood preservatives.

For other general details, such as information on size and quality of the sample, suitable packaging as well as prices please refer to the downloadable PDF Service Prices at the bottom of this page.