AU2021106846A4 - A treated pre-construction strip - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to a treated pre-construction strip for controlling and/or repelling against insects. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a treated pre construction strip containing an insecticide such that the treated construction sheet acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure. 1/4 FIGURES Figure la

Description

1/4 FIGURES

Figure la

A TREATED PRE-CONSTRUCTION STRIP FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a treated pre-construction strip for controlling and/or repelling against insects. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a treated pre construction strip containing an insecticide such that the treated construction sheet acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Insects that cause problems or are a nuisance to humankind are commonly known as pests. Property owners often report being plagued by insects, such as cockroaches, spiders, scorpions, bees, ants, silverfish, and the like, which frequently inhabit enclosed areas of homes (e.g. kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, pantries, etc.), barns, garages, cellars, and other building structures.

[0003] Attempts have been made in the past to remove insects, and other pests, from enclosed areas, such as kitchen cupboards and bathroom vanities. A common method to repel pests includes using strong chemicals, natural odours, or sticky substances to irritate the pest. Odours and/or chemicals, however, typically are ineffective deterrents unless the pest is killed as a result of exposure. Killing pests generally implies leaving behind a corpse, which may pose a danger to humans and may negatively affect the environment.

[0004] Additionally, chemicals tend to be expensive, particularly if professional exterminators are required to eliminate the pests. Exterminators and chemical deterrents typically become a recurring expense for property owners. In addition, the chemicals themselves may create possible hazards to the users.

[0005] There is a need for a product and method that repels pests inhabiting enclosed areas. Beneficially, such an product and method would provide an economical, long-lasting solution to control or repel pests in enclosed areas. The product and method would be simple to install, would cover a large extended area, and would be energy efficient compared to other solutions.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present inventors have surprisingly found that a treated pre-construction strip containing insecticide may control and/or repel against insects. A pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam can advantageously act as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into enclosed areas, such as kitchen cupboards and bathroom vanities. The inventors have found that the treated pre-construction strip adhered to surfaces in enclosed areas, that are particularly difficult to access, can control and/or repel against insect infestation.

[0007] In one aspect, there is provided a pre-construction strip for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre-construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

[0008] In an embodiment, the insecticide may be selected from any one or more of the group comprising pyrethrum, synthetic pyrethroids, organo-chlorines, organo-sulfurs, carbamates, organo-phosphates, formamidines, neonicotinoids, nicotinoids, spinosyns, phenylpyrazoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, dinitrophenols, pyridazinones, quinazolines, and benzoylureas.

[0009] The concentration of the insecticide may be between about 0.2 wt. %, and about 4.0 wt. %, preferably between about 0.5 wt. % and about 2.0 wt. %.

[0010] The polymeric foam maybe a composite comprising crosslinked LLDPE and low melting EVA polymer, and/or wherein the polymeric foam has a density of between about 10 kg/m 3 and about 60 kg/m3 .

[0011] In another aspect there is provided a use of one or more pre-construction strips for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre-construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] Some embodiments of the present disclosure are described and illustrated herein, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures in which:

[0013] Figure 1 shows the installation of the treated construction strip(s) are secured below the finished height of the kitchen bench with approximately 4 per square meter of surface area behind the cupboards and one secured horizontally in each individual space behind the kick boards.

[0014] Figure 2 shows the complete kitchen after installation of the treated construction strip(s).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The present disclosure describes the following various non-limiting examples, which relate to investigations undertaken to identify a pre-construction strip that can provide various desirable properties such as control or repel against the ingress of insects into enclosed areas, such as kitchen cupboards and bathroom vanities. The present inventors have surprisingly found that a treated pre-construction strip containing insecticide may control and/or repel against insects. A pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam can advantageously act as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into enclosed areas, such as kitchen cupboards and bathroom vanities. The insect species may include, for example, cockroaches, ants, spiders, fleas, flies, mosquitoes, and silverfish. In a particular example, the insect may be a cockroach, ant and/or silverfish.

GeneralDefinitions and Terms

[0016] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which is shown, by way of illustration, several embodiments. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilised and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] With regards to the definitions provided herein, unless stated otherwise, or implicit from context, the defined terms and phrases include the provided meanings. In addition, unless explicitly stated otherwise, or apparent from context, the terms and phrases below do not exclude the meaning that the term or phrase has acquired by a person skilled in the relevant art. The definitions are provided to aid in describing particular embodiments, and are not intended to limit the claimed invention, because the scope of the invention is limited only by the claims. Furthermore, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0018] All publications discussed and/or referenced herein are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0019] Throughout this disclosure, unless specifically stated otherwise or the context requires otherwise, reference to a single step, composition of matter, group of steps or group of compositions of matter shall be taken to encompass one and a plurality (i.e., one or more) of those steps, compositions of matter, groups of steps or groups of compositions of matter. Thus, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural aspects unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to "a" includes a single as well as two or more; reference to "an" includes a single as well as two or more; reference to "the" includes a single as well as two or more and so forth.

[0020] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all of the examples, steps, features, methods, compositions, coatings, processes, and coated substrates, referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations or any two or more of said steps or features.

[0021] The term "and/or", e.g., "X and/or Y" shall be understood to mean either "X and Y" or "X or Y" and shall be taken to provide explicit support for both meanings or for either meaning.

[0022] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "first," "second," etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to a "second" item does not require or preclude the existence of lower-numbered item (e.g., a "first" item) and/or a higher-numbered item (e.g., a "third" item).

[0023] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of', when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, or category. In other words, ''at least one of' means any combination of items or number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of item A, item B, and item C" may mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, "at least one of item A, item B, and item C" may mean, for example and without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

[0024] It is to be appreciated that certain features that are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination.

[0025] Throughout the present specification, various aspects and components of the invention can be presented in a range format. The range format is included for convenience and should not be interpreted as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range, unless specifically indicated. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 5 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1to 3, from 1to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 5, from 3 to 5 etc., as well as individual and partial numbers within the recited range, for example, 1, 2,

3, 4, and 5, unless where integers are required or implicit from context. This applies regardless of the breadth of the disclosed range. Where specific values are required, these will be indicated in the specification.

[0026] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0027] Throughout this specification, the term "consisting essentially of', or variations such as "consisting of' or "consist of, is intended to exclude elements which would materially affect the properties of the claimed composition.

[0028] The terms "comprising", "comprise" and "comprises" herein are intended to be optionally substitutable with the terms "consisting essentially of', "consist essentially of', "consists essentially of', "consisting of', "consist of' and "consists of', respectively, in every instance.

[0029] Herein the term "about" encompasses a 10% tolerance in any value or values connected to the term.

[0030] As used herein "curable" or "cured" is descriptive of a material or composition that has or can be cured (e.g., polymerised or crosslinked) by heating to induce polymerisation and/or crosslinking; irradiating with actinic irradiation to induce polymerisation and/or crosslinking; and/or which may self-cure through exposure to air, such as by autoxidation; and/or by mixing one or more components to induce polymerisation and/or crosslinking and which may then crosslink or cure under ambient conditions or by baking. "Mixing" can be performed, for example, by combining two or more parts and mixing to form a homogeneous composition. Alternatively, two or more parts can be provided as separate layers that intermix (e.g., spontaneously or upon application of shear stress) at the interface to initiate polymerization.

[0031] Herein the term "filling" is used to mean completely filling a cavity or at least partially filling a cavity. For example, filling, as used herein, can include adhering the pre-construction strip to surfaces around a perimeter of a cavity, or randomly adhering the pre-construction strip vertically, horizontally, or a combination thereof, to the surfaces to partially fill a cavity, or completely filing a cavity with one or more pre-construction strips.

[0032] Herein "weight %" may be abbreviated to as "wt%".

Constructionsheet composition and structure

[0033] The present disclosure is directed to providing a pre-construction strip for application in homes (e.g. kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, pantries, etc.), barns, garages, cellars, and other building structures. The inventors have found that a pre-construction strip containing an effective amount of an insecticide provides a treated construction sheet capable of controlling and/or repelling ingress of insects. The insect species may include, for example, cockroaches, ants, spiders, fleas, flies, mosquitoes, and silverfish. In a particular example, the insect may be a cockroach, ant and/or silverfish.

[0034] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a pre-construction strip for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre-construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

[0035] In an embodiment, the concentration of insecticide may be between about 0.2 wt. % and about 4.0 wt. %. The concentration of insecticide may be between about 0.5 wt. % and about 2.0 wt. %. The concentration of insecticide may be less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.5, or 0.2. The concentration of insecticide may be at least about 0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4. The concentration of insecticide may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values.

[0036] In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip that may be sold in a roll having a length of between about 0.5 m to about 100 m. The length of the pre-construction strip may be in the range of about 1 m to about 50 m. The length (m) of the pre-construction strip may be less than about 100, 80, 60, 40, 20, 10, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 or 0.5. The length (m) of the pre-construction strip may be at least about 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, or 100. The length of the pre-construction strip may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values. For example, the pre-construction strip may have a length between about 0.5 m and about 5 m, or may have a length of about 2 m.

[0037] In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may have a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm. The thickness (mm) of the pre-construction strip may be less than about 65, , 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, or 6. The thickness (mm) of the pre-construction strip may be at least about 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, or 75. The thickness of the pre construction strip may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values. For example, the pre-construction strip may have a thickness between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, or may have a thickness of about 10 mm.

[0038] In an embodiment, the density of the pre-construction strip may be in a range of between about 10 kg/m 3 to about 60 kg/m3 . The pre-construction strip may have a density of between 20 kg/ 3 to about 50 kg/m3 . The density (kg/m 3) of the pre-construction strip may be less than about 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, or 10. The density (kg/m 3 ) of the pre construction strip may be at least about 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60. The density of the pre-construction strip may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values. For example, the pre-construction strip may have a density in a range between about 20 kg/m3 and 30 kg/m 3 , or may have a density in a range between about 40 kg/ 3 and 50 kg/m3 .

Density tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards ASTM D 1622.

[0039] In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may have a compression recovery (%) of at least about 80, 85, 90, 95 or 99. For example, the pre-construction strip may have compression recovery of at least 95%. Compression recovery tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards ASTM D 5249.

[0040] In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may have a tensile strength (kPa) of at least about200,210,220,230,240,250,260,270,280,290,300,310,320,330,340,350,360, 380, 390, or 400. For example, the pre-construction strip may have tensile strength of at least 240 kPa. Tensile strength tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards ASTM D 3575.

[0041] In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may provide insulation in accordance with ASTM E1966 or ANSI/UL 2079. In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may form a fire resistant barrier. In an embodiment, the fire retardant extruded with the polymeric foam may any fire retardant known in the art. For example, the fire retardant extruded with the polymeric foam may be antimony trioxide. Fire tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards generate a 450 degree temperature exposure within 5 minutes after the start of a test. Present and accepted industry testing requirements for fire resistance are detailed in (1) ASTM E1966 Standard Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems and (2) ANSI/UL 2079 Tests for Fire Resistance of Building Joint System). In other words, fire resistant rated joints between construction elements require a more substantial insulation barrier at elevated temperatures.

[0042] In an embodiment, at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip there is a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip. The removal of the cover allows the pre-construction strip to be secured to a surface prior to application, for example, in homes (e.g. kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, pantries, etc.), barns, garages, cellars, and other building structures. This is particularly useful when using the pre-construction strip to impede the ingress of insects into areas that are difficult for pest controllers to apply their conventional methods, such as homes (e.g. kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, pantries, etc.), barns, garages, cellars, and other building structures.

[0043] The removable cover may include a motif to clearly identify the pre-construction strip. The motif may comprise word(s), logo, decorative design or novel pre-construction strip characteristic.

[0044] In an embodiment, one or more pre-construction strips may be adhered to a first or second surface. It will be appreciated that, the number of pre-construction strips adhered to a first or second surface will depend on the average size of the first or second element.

Polymeric foam

[0045] The polymeric foam may be manufactured from at least one polymer selected from the group comprising polyamide, polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polystyrene, synthetic rubber, polymethacrylate, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer and polyurethane. The polymeric foam may be manufactured primarily of polyethylene, a low density polyethylene. For example, the polymeric foam may be a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). In a preferred example, the polymeric foam may be a crosslinked LLDPE.

[0046] It has been also been found that the temperature of the extrusion step can be controlled by the addition of a quantity of a secondary polymer. For example, the extrusion temperature can be kept below approximately 180°C by adding a quantity of low melting ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. The addition of low melting EVA has also been found to help in the dispersion and melt mixing of the polymer and the insecticide.

[0047] In one preferred embodiment, the polymeric foam is a composite comprising LLDPE and low melting EVA polymer.

[0048] In an embodiment, the polymeric foam may comprise primarily of linear low density polyethylene (LLPDE) or polypropylene, the foam may be open cell, closed cell, contain both open and closed cells, or may be formed as a plurality of coalesced strands or profiles depending on the needs of the application. For example, the polymeric foam may be a closed cell LLPDE with a cell size of between about 0.01 mm to about 5 mm. For example, the polymeric foam may have a cell size from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. The cell size (mm) of the polymeric foam may be less than about 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.8, 1.6, 1.4, 1.2, 1, 0.5, 0.1, 0.05, or 0.01. The cell size (mm) of the polymeric foam may be at least about 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 3, 4, or 5. The cell size of the polymeric foam may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values.

[0049] In one embodiment, the polymeric foam may have a density of between about 10 kg/m3 to 60 kg/m3 . For example, the polymeric foam may have a density of between 20 kg/m3 to 50 kg/m 3. The density (kg/m 3) of the polymeric foam may be less than about 60, 55,50, 45, 40, 35, , 25, 20, 15, or 10. The density (kg/m 3) of the polymeric foam may be at least about 10, 15, 20, , 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60. The density of the polymeric foam may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values. For example, the polymeric foam may have a density in a range between about 20 kg/ 3 and 30 kg/ 3, or may have a density in a range between about 40 kg/m3 and 50 kg/m 3 . Density tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards ASTM D 1622.

[0050] In an embodiment, the polymeric foam may have a tear strength (kPa) of at least about 200,210,220,230,240,250,260,270,280,290,300,310,320,330,340,350,360,380,390,or 400. For example, the polymeric foam may have tear strength of at least 240 kPa.

[0051] In an embodiment, the polymeric foam may have a tensile strength (kPa) of at least about200,210,220,230,240,250,260,270,280,290,300,310,320,330,340,350,360,380, 390, or 400. For example, the polymeric foam may have tensile strength of at least 240 kPa. Tensile strength tests may be performed in accordance with industry standards ASTM D 3575.

Insecticide

[0052] The present inventors have surprisingly found that the addition of an insecticide extracted with the polymeric foam of the pre-construction strip is capable of controlling and/or repelling insects. For example, the insecticide exhibits control or repellent affects against insects when provided in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam. The insect species may include, for example, cockroaches, ants, spiders, fleas, flies, mosquitoes, and silverfish.

[0053] In an embodiment, the insecticide may be extruded with the polymeric foam.

[0054] The insecticide may be any active agent that exhibits control or repellent affects against insect species.

[0055] The insecticide may also be non-repellents such as the neonicotinoid (e.g. imidacloprid), phenylpyrazole (e.g fipronil), and naturally occurring substances, such as those found in termite resistant trees, such as those found in Red Gum trees, Eucalyptus camaldulensis.

[0056] The insecticide(s) which is extruded with the polymeric material may be any active agent that exhibits control or repellent affects against insect species. The active agent(s) may include, but are not limited to, pyrethrum, synthetic pyrethroids, organochlorines, organosulfurs, carbamates, organophosphates, formamidines, neonicotinoids, nicotinoids, spinosyns, phenylpyrazoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, dinitrophenols, pyridazinones, quinazolines, and benzoylureas. Preferably, a noted termiticide is used such as bifenthrin, permethrin, deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, cypermethrin, alpha- cypermethrin, zeta-cypermethrin, tetramethrin, and cyfluthrin.

[0057] The term "pyrethrum" as used herein means pyrethrin compounds derived from chrysanthemum plants, or the same or similar compounds derived from other natural sources, and pyrethroid compounds manufactured synthetically. Specific examples of such compounds include, but are not limited to, deltamethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, cyhalothrin, tefluthrin, resmethrin, allethrin, kadethrin, sanmarton, fenvalerate, esfenvalerate, lambda-cyhalothrin, tralomethrin, fenpropathrin, tetramethrin, as well as mixtures thereof. These compounds may be extracted from plant sources or may be prepared by a suitable chemical process, and are commercially available from such sources as AgrEvo, Zeneca, Bayer, FMC Corporation, and Aldrich Chemical. Preferably, the compound is a pyrethroid compound selected from deltamethrin, permethrin, bifenthrin, and mixtures thereof. In a particular embodiment, the insecticide bifenthrin is used. Bifenthrin has a non-alpha-cyano molecular structure which renders it a dermal non-sensitiser, i.e. does not react substantially with a person's skin.

[0058] The pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid family of compounds have very effective surface contact insect repellence, which is important to the prevention of insect attack to any foam products which contains them. The thermal and chemical stability and structure of pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid compounds adds to their suitability in plastic manufacturing processes. After manufacture, many pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid compounds remain encapsulated in the foam plastic resin because of their chemical structure and relatively low vapour pressure. As a result, the pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid compounds provide long term protection against insect borings that could affect the physical properties of the foam. The concentration of pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid compounds in the foam that provides the desired efficacy depends on the specific material used and the targeted insect.

[0059] In an embodiment, the insecticide may be a synthetic pyrethroid compound selected from the group comprising deltamethrin, permethrin, bifenthrin, and mixtures thereof. The at least one insecticide may be a termiticide. For example, the insecticide is bifenthrin.

[0060] In general, the insecticide, in particular the pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroid compounds are preferably employed in a cumulative amount. For example, during the preparation of the masterbatch the insecticide, for example bifenthrin, is added at a concentration (wt. %) of the polymer of between approximately 10 to 20 wt. %. Preferably, the percentage bifenthrin in the masterbatch is 20 wt. %. Upon extrusion and foaming, the eventual concentration of the bifenthrin in the foam may be between about 0.2 to 4 wt.%.

[0061] In an embodiment, the concentration of insecticide maybe between about 0.2 wt.% and about 4.0 wt. %. the concentration of insecticide may be between about 0.5 wt. % and about 2.0 wt. %. The concentration of insecticide may be less than about 4, 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.5, or 0.2. The concentration of insecticide may be at least about 0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4. The concentration of insecticide may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values. In one embodiment, the insecticide, e.g. bifenthrin, may be added as 0.2 wt.%, 0.5 wt. %, 1 wt.%, or 2 wt.% of the polymeric foam. The exact concentration used may depend on the type of pre-construction strip, targeted insect and the climatic conditions. The inclusion of bifenthrin in the polymeric foam provides a repellent barrier as well as a chemical barrier to the penetration of insects.

[0062] The insecticide(s) may be dispersed, preferably evenly, substantially throughout the polymer matrix of the expansion foam. For example, bifenthrin may be introduced in a powder form and incorporated into the LLPE-EVA resin masterbatch. Depending on the product, the active agent could be added as granules, powder form or liquid to be incorporated into the polymeric foam. Preferably, the insecticide does not leach from the polymeric foam.

Optional additives

[0063] The polymeric foam may further comprise one or more additives selected from the group comprising inorganic fillers, pigments, stabilizers, antioxidants, antifungal agents, acid scavengers, ultraviolet absorbers, flame retardants, processing aids, dispersion aids, extrusion aids, and the like.

[0064] In addition, other additives with insecticidal repellent and/or synergistic properties, such as piperonyl butoxide, may be added to the foamable polymer composition prior to foaming, or may be applied to the exterior portion of the foam sheet in a post-treatment process.

[0065] For example, a stabilising agent may be present in the polymeric foam. The stabilizing agent may be selected from any one or more of inorganic silicate, silicone dioxide, hydrophobic silicone dioxide, montmorillonite clay, sodium bentonite clay with high montmorillonite content, kaolin, kaolinite, magnesium aluminium silicate and aluminium silicate.

[0066] The stabilizing agent may be a high surface area inorganic silicate, preferably a high surface area aluminium silicate, for example, kaolin. During the extrusion of the masterbatch, kaolin may be added as a high surface area support for bifenthrin and as a stabilizing agent. Also during the foaming process, a food grade wax may be added as a processing aid.

[0067] In an embodiment, a stabilizing agent may be present in the polymeric foam in an amount of between about 0.1 wt.%. and about 10 wt.%. The stabilizing agent may be in an amount (wt.%) of less than about 10, 8, 6, 4, 2, 1, 0.5, or 0.1. The stabilizing agent may be in an amount (wt.%) of at least about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10. The stabilizing agent may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values.

[0068] The polymeric foam may also contain a UV stabilizer / UV absorbers to prevent break down of the pre-construction strip when exposed to sunlight. This is important in maintaining the longevity of the pre-construction strip which may be in place for extended periods of time.

[0069] Pigment may be added to the polymeric composition prior to foaming to give the polymeric foam a specific colour. In an embodiment, the polymeric foam may be a black, grey, blue, brown, green, yellow, silver, orange, red, or natural colour. In a particular example, the polymeric foam may be green. This is an important feature of the invention as it will provide a visual aid to workers to distinguish pre-construction strip which contain an insecticide.

[0070] It will be appreciated that a nucleating agent may be added to the polymeric foam to reduce the primary cell size. In an embodiment, the nucleating agent may be an inorganic substance such as hydrated magnesium silicate (talc), calcium carbonate, calcium silicate, indigo, talc, clay, titanium dioxide, silica, calcium stearate, diatomaceous earth, mixtures of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, and the like. The amount of nucleating agent added may range from about 0.01 to about 5 parts by weight per hundred parts by weight of a polymer resin. For example, the amount of nucleating agent may range from 0.1 to about 3 parts by weight. The average cell size may be in a range between about 0.01 mm to about 5 mm. For example, the average cell size may be in a range between about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. The average cell size (mm) may be less than about 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.8, 1.6, 1.4, 1.2, 1, 0.5, 0.1, 0.05, or 0.01. The average cell size (mm) may be at least about 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, 2, 3, 4, or 5. The average cell size may be in a range provided by any two of these upper and/or lower values.

[0071] In one preferred embodiment, the nucleating agent used during the blowing of the polymer is a hydrated magnesium silicate (talc). The talc may be present in an amount between approximately 0.7 to approximately 1.2 wt. % of the polymeric foam, preferably approximately

0.8 wt. %. High aspect ratio minerals, such as talc and clays, are useful nucleating agents to nucleate the gas bubbles. Talc levels > 1.0 wt. % can adversely affect foaming and foam stability, therefore, the talc levels used preferably less than 0.8%.

[0072] It will be appreciated that a blowing agent may be added to the polymer resin in any convenient manner. In an extrusion process, the blowing agent mixture is pumped into the polymeric resin and admixed therewith prior to extrusion through a die to form foam. The blowing agent may be admixed and pumped as a combination stream into the heat plastified resin, or they may be supplied as separate streams. Adequate mixing of the blowing agents into the heat plastified resin is required in order to obtain a product of desirable uniformity. Such mixing may be accomplished by a variety of means including dynamic mixers such as extruders, so-called static mixers or interfacial surface generators. For example, the blowing agent may be butane or pentane.

Application and use of a pre-constructionstrip

[0073] The present disclosure may provide a use of the pre-construction strip for the installation of the pre-construction strip to vertical surfaces behind the rear of cupboards, vanities, mirrors, storage units, shelves, pantries, and/or horizontally to areas behind kickboards (e.g. flooring).

[0074] In one embodiment, at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip there is a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the construction element. The removal of the cover allows the pre-construction strip to be secured prior to installation of cupboards, vanities, mirrors, storage units, shelves, pantries, and/or to areas behind kickboards. It will be appreciated that the pre-construction strip may find particular use with the installation of kitchens and bathrooms, for example, in new construction or renovations.

[0075] The removable cover may include a motif to clearly identify the pre-construction strip. The motif may comprise word(s), logo, decorative design or novel pre-construction strip characteristic.

[0076] The first and second elements may be defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity. In an embodiment, the first element and the second element may be composed of the same or different materials, wherein the material may be selected from any one of plaster, cladding, brick, wood, plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment or example, the first element and second elements may be composed of wood. In another embodiment, the first element may be composed of plaster, and the second element composed of wood. The elements may be made of conventional building materials, such as plaster, cladding, wood, brick, plastic, metal, concrete, or a combination thereof.

[0077] A first surface of the first element may be opposing and adjacent a second surface of the second element. In this position, the surfaces form a cavity between the first and second elements. In an embodiment, the pre-construction strip may be adhered to the first surface of the first element (e.g. interior wall of a building structure such as a kitchen or bathroom internal wall structure) or the second surface or the second element (e.g. a cupboard, vanity, mirror, storage unit, shelf, pantry), and the pre-construction strip may be used to fill the cavity between the first and second element. In an alternate embodiment, the pre-construction strip may be adhered to a kickboard, for example, or areas behind the kickboard prior to the kickboard installation (e.g. on the flooring).

[0078] In an embodiment, one or more pre-construction strips may be adhered to a first or second surface. It will be appreciated that, the number of pre-construction strips adhered to a first or second surface will depend on the average size of the first or second element.

[0079] In another embodiment, the pre-construction strip may be sold in a kit. For example, the kit may comprise a pre-construction strip in a length of about 5 metres, preferably 4 metres, more preferably 3 metres, or even more preferably 2 metres, optionally a pair of gloves, and optionally installation instructions.

[0080] The present disclosure may be further described by the following numbered paragraphs:

[0081] 1. A pre-construction strip for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to a first or second surface.

[0082] 2. The pre-construction strip according to paragraph 1, wherein the insecticide exhibits control or repellent affects against insects.

[0083] 3. The pre-construction strip according to paragraph 1 or paragraph 2, wherein the pre construction strip may form a fire resistant barrier.

[0084] 4. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the insecticide is extruded with the polymeric foam.

[0085] 5. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the insecticide is selected from any one or more of the group comprising pyrethrum, synthetic pyrethroids, organo-chlorines, organo-sulfurs, carbamates, organo-phosphates, formamidines, neonicotinoids, nicotinoids, spinosyns, phenylpyrazoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, dinitrophenols, pyridazinones, quinazolines, and benzoylureas.

[0086] 6. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein the insecticide is a synthetic pyrethroid compound selected from the group comprising deltamethrin, permethrin, bifenthrin, and mixtures thereof.

[0087] 7. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the insecticide is bifenthrin.

[0088] 8. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein the concentration of the insecticide is between about 0.2 wt. %, and about 4.0 wt. %, preferably between about 0.5 wt. % and about 2.0 wt. %.

[0089] 9. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein the polymeric foam is a closed cell polymeric foam.

[0090] 10. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, wherein the polymeric foam has a cell size of about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.

[0091] 11. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, wherein the polymeric foam is manufactured at a temperature of less than 180°C and is prepared primarily from a blend of a crosslinked polyethylene and a low melting ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer.

[0092] 12. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs I to 11, wherein the crosslinked polyethylene is a crosslinked linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE).

[0093] 13. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, wherein the polymeric foam is a composite comprising crosslinked LLDPE and low melting EVA polymer.

[0094] 14. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, wherein a stabilizer is present in an amount between 0.1 wt.% and about 10 wt.% and the stabilizers is selected from the group comprising inorganic silicate, silicone dioxide, hydrophobic silicone dioxide, montmorillonite clay, sodium bentonite clay with high montmorillonite content, magnesium aluminium silicate and aluminium silicate.

[0095] 15. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, wherein the polymeric foam further comprises one more additives selected from the group comprising inorganic fillers, pigments, lubricants, stabilizers, antioxidants, antifungal agents, acid scavengers, ultraviolet absorbers, flame retardants, processing aids, dispersion aids, extrusion aids, and the like.

[0096] 16. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 15, wherein the polymeric foam comprises a stabilizer and the stabilizer is kaolin.

[0097] 17. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 16, wherein the polymeric foam includes a UV stabilizer.

[0098] 18. The pre-construction strip according to any one of paragraphs I to 17, wherein the polymeric foam has a density of between about 10 kg/ 3 and about 60 kg/m3 .

[0099] 19. Use of one or more pre-construction strips for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

[0100] 20. The use according to paragraph 19, wherein the first element and the second element are composed of the same or different materials, wherein the material may be selected from any one of plaster, cladding, brick, wood, plastic, metal, concrete or a combination thereof.

[0101] 21. The use according to paragraph 19 or paragraph 20, wherein the insecticide exhibits control or repellent affects against insects.

[0102] 22. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 21, wherein the pre-construction strip may form a fire resistant barrier.

[0103] 23. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 22, wherein the insecticide is impregnated into the polymeric foam.

[0104] 24. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 23, wherein the insecticide is selected from any one or more of the group comprising pyrethrum, synthetic pyrethroids, organo-chlorines, organo-sulfurs, carbamates, organo-phosphates, formamidines, neonicotinoids, nicotinoids, spinosyns, phenylpyrazoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, dinitrophenols, pyridazinones, quinazolines, and benzoylureas.

[0105] 25. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 24, wherein the insecticide is a synthetic pyrethroid compound selected from the group comprising deltamethrin, permethrin, bifenthrin, and mixtures thereof.

[0106] 26. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 25, wherein the insecticide is bifenthrin.

[0107] 27. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 26, wherein the concentration of the insecticide is between about 0.2 wt. % and about 4.0 wt. %, preferably between about 0.5 wt. % and about 2.0 wt. %.

[0108] 28. The use according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 27, wherein the polymeric foam is a closed cell polymeric foam.

[0109] 29. The use according to anyone of paragraphs 19 to 28, wherein the polymeric foam has a cell size of about 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

[0110] 30. The use according to anyone of paragraphs 19 to 29, wherein the polymeric foam has a density of between about 10 kg/m3 and about 60 kg/m3 .

EXAMPLES

[0111] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the following non limiting examples and with reference to the accompanying Figures.

[0112] Example 1 Field Study to Determine the Repellency of Two Rates ofBifenthrin Treated Foam againsta Black Ant

[0113] Active nests or trails of black ants were selected in gardens in the southern suburbs of Sydney, NSW, Australia.

[0114] Pre-construction strip sample comprising 0.5%w/w Bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips. These were glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive. This produced a foam barrier mm thick & 5 mm wide as a continuous barrier on the tile. There were five repeats of the same pre-construction strip samples adhered to 200mm x 200mm tiles, as above.

[0115] A further pre-construction strip sample comprising 0.2% w/w Bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips. These were glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive. This produced a foam barrier 10mm thick and 5mm wide as a continuous barrier on the tile. There were five repeats of the same pre-construction strip samples adhered to 200mm x 200mm tiles, as above.

[0116] An identical tile was setup as an untreated control, i.e. a pre-construction strip sample comprising no bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips and glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive.

[0117] Two grams of thinly sliced ham was placed into the middle of each of the tiles. In order for an ant to reach the ham, it had to cross the pre-construction strip.

[0118] The tile with the pre-construction strip treated with bifenthrin were setup on one side of a black ant trail or nest and the other tile with the control pre-construction strip was set up the same distance from the ant trial or nest on the opposite side.

[0119] The samples were left for 60 minutes and the number of ants on each of the foam samples was counted at 15, 30 and 60 minutes after placement. This was repeated a total of 5 times each with the replicates. The orientation of the treated tiles and the control tiles to the ant nest or trail was randomized.

[0120] The following Table 1 provides percent repellency of each of the active treatments. The percentage repellency was calculated by the following Equation I:

Number of ants on treated tile Percentagerepellency = 1 - x 100 Number of ants on control tilex

[0121] Table 1 Summary table - the percentage repellency of treated pre-construction strip

% repellency of treated pre-construction strip at various exposure time

15 minutes 30 minutes 60 minutes

0.5% bifenthrin 16.0 37.8 37.4

0.2% bifenthrin 16.4 23.6 36.1

[0122] Example 2 LaboratoryStudy to Compare the Repellency of Two Rates ofBifenthrin TreatedFoam Against the American Cockroach

[0123] 50 American cockroaches, 15 adults and 35 mixed age nymphs, were introduced into a large round white plastic tub, 600mm in diameter and 450mm high sides. The upper part of the wall of the tub was coated with Fluon ADIto prevent the cockroaches from escaping. The cockroaches were left undisturbed for 24 hours to acclimate. A total of 15 tubs were set up, as above.

[0124] A pre-construction strip sample comprising 0.5%w/w bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips. The strips were glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive. This produced a foam barrier 10mm thick & 5 mm wide as a continuous barrier on the tile. There were 5 repeats of the same pre-construction strip samples adhered to 200mm x 200mm tiles, as above.

[0125] A further pre-construction strip sample comprising 0.2% w/w bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips. The strips were glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive. This produced a foam barrier 10mm thick and 5mm wide as a continuous barrier on the tile. There were 5 repeats of the same pre-construction strip samples adhered to 200mm x 200mm tiles, as above.

[0126] An identical tile was setup as an untreated control, i.e. a pre-construction strip sample comprising no bifenthrin was cut using a scalpel blade to 5mm width x 20mm long x 10mm thick strips and glued to the top outside edge of a white 200mm x 200mm glazed tile using contact adhesive. There were 20 repeats of the same pre-construction strip samples adhered to 200mm x 200mm tiles, as above.

[0127] A tile with the pre-construction strip treated with bifenthrin and a tile with the control pre-construction strip were placed in a tub with the acclimatised cockroaches. The orientation of the treated foam tiles and the control tiles were randomized. There were five repeats for both the 0.5% w/w and 0.2% w/w bifenthrin pre-construction strip edged tiles.

[0128] Two tiles with the control pre-construction strip were placed in a tub with the acclimatised cockroaches. The orientation of the control tiles were randomized. There were five repeats of the two control tile tubs.

[0129] A square of Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate was placed into the middle of each of the tiles. The chocolate had previously been weighed using a 4-place analytical balance. There was no food (other than the chocolate squares described above) provided.

[0130] At 24, 48 & 120 hours post tile introduction, the chocolate was weighed to determine the amount consumed.

[0131] At 120 hours posttreatment the number of dead cockroaches in each tub was noted.

[0132] Table 2 Summary table- the total weight of chocolate removed- 0.5% w/wbifenthrin

Weight of chocolate removed from tile (g) Total

Percentage Number of Treatment Removed Dead 24 hrs 48 hrs 120 hrs Total Cockroaches

0.5% bifenthrin 0.9761 0.2340 0.4650 1.6751 47.0 8

Control 0.9218 0.1931 0.7738 1.8887 53.0 0

[0133] Table 3 Summary table- the total weight of chocolate removed- 0.2% w/wbifenthrin

Weight of chocolate removed from tile (g) Total

Percentage Number of Treatment Removed Dead 24 hrs 48 hrs 120 hrs Total Cockroaches

0.5% bifenthrin 0.4582 0.2664 0.7031 1.4277 53.2 9

Control 0.3847 0.2785 0.5915 1.2547 46.8

[0134] Table 4 Summary table- the total weight of chocolate removed- control

Weight of chocolate removed from tile (g) Total

Percentage Number of Treatment Removed Dead 24 hrs 48 hrs 120 hrs Total Cockroaches

Control 0.3018 0.3054 0.4489 1.0561 46.5 7

Control 0.3159 0.4696 0.4387 1.2242 53.5 0

[0135] Example 3 LaboratoryStudy to Compare the Efficacy ofBifenthrin Treated Foam Against the American Cockroach

[0136] A 200mm x 200mm foam tile was cut from 2% w/w Bifenthrin foam to provide material for bioassays.

[0137] Five adult and five mid-instar American cockroach nymphs were placed in a plastic container (base diameter 15cm and height 10cm) treated with fluon along the walls.

[0138] The container was upturned, such that the 10 cockroaches were constantly in contact with the foam for the desired exposure time. The container was held stationary and the cockroaches were allowed to move within the confines of the container. This process was repeated five times, with a new set of 10 cockroaches for each repetition, for each of the exposure times: 10,60, 300 and 600 seconds.

[0139] Knockdown, defined as a cockroach being on their back with legs twitching in large movements, was noted at 1, 3, and 24 hours after exposure.

[0140] Mortality, defined as no obvious movement before or after being touched by small paintbrush, was noted at 24 hours after exposure.

[0141] A second 200mm x 200mm foam tile was cut from control foam comprising no bifenthrin.

[0142] Five adult and five mid-instar American cockroach nymphs were placed in a plastic container (base diameter 15cm and height 10cm) treated with fluon along the walls.

[0143] The container was upturned, such that the 10 cockroaches were constantly in contact with the foam for the desired exposure time. The container was held stationary and the cockroaches were allowed to move within the confines of the container. This process was repeated five times, with a new set of 10 cockroaches for each repetition, for each of the exposure times: 10, 60, 300, 600 and 3600 seconds.

[0144] Knockdown, defined as a cockroach being on their back with legs twitching in large movements, was noted at 1, 3, and 24 hours after exposure.

[0145] Mortality, defined as no obvious movement before or after being touched by small paintbrush, was noted at 24 hours after exposure.

[0146] Table 5 Summary table- The Knockdown and Mortality of American Cockroaches on foam surfaces after Various exposure times

The Percentage Knockdown (KD) & Mortality at Various Times Post Exposure Exposure Treatment Time (s) 1 Hour 3 Hours 24 Hours

KD KD KD Mortality Total

10 92 100 0 100 100

60 94 100 0 100 100 2% bifenthrin 300 100 100 0 100 100

600 100 100 2 98 100

Control Foam 10 0 0 0 0 0

60 0 0 0 2 2

300 0 0 0 0 0

600 0 0 0 0 0

3600 0 0 0 2 2

[0147] Example 4 Installationofa treated construction strip during construction ofa kitchen

[0148] As shown in Figure 1, the installation of the treated construction strip(s) are secured below the finished height of the kitchen bench with approximately 4 per square meter of surface area behind the cupboards and one secured horizontally in each individual space behind the kick boards. Figure 2 shows the complete kitchen after installation of the treated construction strip(s).

Claims (5)

CLAIMS:

1. A pre-construction strip for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre-construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre-construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

2. The pre-construction strip of claim 1, wherein the insecticide is selected from any one or more of the group comprising pyrethrum, synthetic pyrethroids, organo-chlorines, organo sulfurs, carbamates, organo-phosphates, formamidines, neonicotinoids, nicotinoids, spinosyns, phenylpyrazoles, pyrroles, pyrazoles, dinitrophenols, pyridazinones, quinazolines, and benzoylureas.

3. The pre-construction strip of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the concentration of the insecticide is between about 0.2 wt. %, and about 4.0 wt. %, preferably between about 0.5 wt. and about 2.0 wt. %. %

4. The pre-construction strip of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymeric foam is a composite comprising crosslinked LLDPE and low melting EVA polymer, and/or wherein the polymeric foam has a density of between about 10 kg/ 3 and about 60 kg/m3 .

5. Use of one or more pre-construction strips for filling a cavity between a first and second element, wherein the first and second element is defined by a first and second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface are opposing and adjacent to define the cavity, the pre construction strip comprising a polymeric foam containing at least one insecticide in an effective amount and substantially distributed throughout the polymeric foam, wherein the pre construction strip acts as a physical and chemical barrier to impede the ingress of insects into a structure, wherein the pre-construction strip has a thickness of between about 0.5 mm to about 30 mm, and wherein at least one outer surface of the pre-construction strip has a water resistant adhesive attached thereto and a removable cover releasably attached to the adhesive whereby the removable cover is adapted to be removed upon application of the pre-construction strip to the first or second surface.

FIGURES 1/4

Figure 1a