JP2005511262A - Methods and compositions for treating wood - Google Patents

Abstract

  A method of reducing wood degradation rate comprising contacting wood with an aqueous alkaline colloidal silicon-containing salt composition supersaturated with a boron-containing salt. Contact can be ambient temperature and pressure or elevated temperature and pressure. The composition is an aqueous colloidal silicon-containing salt that is supersaturated with a boron-containing salt and optionally includes an aluminum salt and a preservative. The composition is made by mixing a boron-containing salt with a colloidal aqueous mixture of silicon-containing salts and optionally adding an aluminum salt and a preservative. This process is carried out under conditions that produce a supersaturated solution of the boron-containing salt. Wood treated with this composition is considered resistant to insects, decay, UV degradation, fire and other environmental hazards. Wood is also believed to be increased in strength.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS This application is a U.S. provisional application U. S. This is a continuation-in-part application. This provisional application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The name of the provisional application is “synthetic apparatus and method and application and use of wood preservatives based on inorganic polymers”.

  The present invention relates to an improved method of preserving wood by synthesis and use of a non-toxic, environmentally friendly aqueous composition that is more effective than current technology.

  Wood preservation is a technology that reduces the rate of 1) biological effects of fungi, insects, marine bare, 2) damaging sunlight and 3) fire. Wood preservation is generally achieved by chemical treatment. Wood preservation extends the useful life of wood and reduces the cost of frequent replacement. A well-designed wood structure can be useful for a long time without special protection, but natural wood in high temperature, structures exposed to salt water or in climatic conditions that favor the generation of harmful fungi and insects When used in a large economic loss can occur.

  Wood preservatives commonly used today are oils containing oily and aqueous chemicals. Oil is widely used for outdoor use. It does not smell in the water, but it changes color and makes it difficult to paint. Coal tar creosote alone or in 5% pentachlorophenol in petroleum is used to process products such as sleepers, piles, pillars, piles and structural materials. Another common processing solution is water soluble and includes copper, chromium and arsenate (CCA).

  However, wood preservatives used today have several deficiencies. Both creosote and CCA pose significant environmental hazards due to significant toxicity to both plants, humans and animals. Even with the environmental toxicity disadvantages, these current wood preservations are not at all effective against so many problems in the United States. Quotations from TIME magazine forget "termites from hell" and "killer bees: Formoson termites are a real threat, they are eating the southern United States. "No one knows how to stop." Foamson termites are subterranean termites native to East Asia. It was first brought to the US mainland immediately after World War II. It is thought that it was carried from a port in the Far East by a plank or packing crate by a military cargo ship. Termite colonies living in the average house eat 7 pounds of wood per year. Foamson termite colonies eat 1,000 pounds per year. Termites cause over $ 1 billion to $ 2 billion in total damage, repair and control annually across the United States, and in New Orleans, Louisiana, the most severely damaged city, about 350,000,000 annually $ 000.

  It is clear that effective and less environmentally toxic wood preservatives should be developed that will repel Foamson termites. The present invention fulfills this need with additional advantages that will be apparent upon further reading of the present application.

  One aspect of the present invention is a method for reducing the rate of wood degradation. The method includes contacting the wood with an aqueous mixture comprising an alkaline colloidal composition of a silicon-containing salt incorporating boron ions for a time sufficient to immerse at least a portion of the wood in the mixture. The wood can be contacted by dipping the wood in an aqueous mixture at a pressure above atmospheric pressure in a closed container, or it can be sprayed or brushed onto the wood. Once dry, the wood is very resistant to rot, insects and other environmental attacks.

  Another aspect of the present invention is an article of manufacture comprising a wood soaked with a silicon-containing salt, a boron-containing salt and optionally an aluminum halide. Generally, the silicon-containing salt is present in the wood at a concentration of about 1 to about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight), and the boron-containing salt is about 1 to about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight). Present in wood at a concentration. If present, the aluminum salt is present at a concentration of less than about 1% mass / mass (weight / weight).

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide water, an alkali metal hydroxide, a silicon-containing salt, a boron-containing salt, an optional aluminum halide and optionally a preservative in an amount sufficient to bring the pH of the water to at least 10. A colloidal composition comprising

  A further aspect of the invention is a method of making a composition suitable for reducing the rate of wood degradation. This method comprises mixing the boron-containing salt with an alkali metal silicate solution, optionally adding an aluminum halide and preservative, and mixing and supersaturating with the boron-containing salt at a pH of at least 10. Forming a homogeneous colloidal composition.

  For a fuller understanding of the nature, objects and advantages of the present invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken together with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like elements.

  Wood, such as that used in structures such as houses, decks, fences, sea piles, utility pillars, railway sleepers, etc., tends to degrade over time due to numerous environmental hazards. There is. One aspect of the present invention is a method for reducing the degradation rate of wood. The method includes contacting the wood with an aqueous alkaline colloidal composition of a silicon-containing salt incorporating boron ions for a time sufficient to immerse at least a portion of the wood in the mixture. Preferably, at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, the wood is placed in the aqueous mixture for a time sufficient to ensure that at least a portion of the silicon-containing salt and the boron-containing salt are deposited on or within the treated wood. The wood is brought into contact by soaking in. The method is performed at a pressure of about 125 psi to about 175 psi, and the temperature can be ambient or elevated. The pressure is maintained for a time sufficient to soak most of the wood, for example about 30 minutes to 2 hours. Wood can be co-treated with aqueous calcium silicate for improved results.

  In the preferred high pressure treatment, the pressure is maintained for a time that depends on the amount, porosity and length of the wood being treated, soaking the wood throughout its entire structure. After dipping the wood with the composition, the wood is removed from contact with the aqueous composition and dried to give a product on which silicon-containing and boron-containing salts are deposited. Drying can take place at ambient temperature and pressure or elevated temperature and pressure. If the wood is pressure treated and dried under environmental conditions, drying can take 30 days or more. By pressure treating the wood according to the present invention, it is clear that silicon-containing and boron-containing salts are deposited throughout the wood, resulting in a weight increase that can vary from 20% to 70% over untreated wood. . It is likely that the colloidal composition is inhaled into the wood, possibly by capillary action, and the salt is deposited throughout the fiber structure of the wood. The weight increase depends on temperature, pressure, wood porosity, wood size, colloidal composition and the like.

  This process is carried out using an alkaline colloidal composition comprising water basified with an alkali metal hydroxide to a pH of at least about 10, a silicon-containing salt, a boron-containing salt and optionally an aluminum halide. Details of the composition are discussed below.

  The method of the present invention is particularly applicable to immersing wood in an aqueous composition, but wood can also be applied by contact by applying the aqueous composition to the surface of the wood at ambient temperature and pressure and drying. Can be dipped. Such application can be done by application with a brush, pouring the composition onto the wood surface, spraying the composition, and the like. Once the composition has been applied, the wood is dried for a time to ensure that the immersion of the wood on the surface is complete.

  Another aspect of the present invention is an article of manufacture comprising a wood soaked with a silicon-containing salt, a boron-containing salt and optionally an aluminum halide. In manufactured articles, the silicon-containing salt is present in the wood at a concentration of about 1 to about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight), and the boron-containing salt (eg, metal borate or boric acid) is about 1 Present in wood at a concentration of ˜about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight), and aluminum halide is present up to about 1% mass / mass (weight / weight). The dry weight of the product of the invention (manufactured by pressure treatment) is 20 to about 70% greater than the corresponding untreated wood. If the product is manufactured by brushing or spraying, the immersion is mainly the surface and there is not much weight gain, i.e. less than 10%. The final increase depends on the number of factors discussed below.

  Another aspect of the present invention is to provide water, an alkali metal hydroxide, a silicon-containing salt, a boron-containing salt, an optional aluminum halide and optionally a preservative in an amount sufficient to bring the water pH to at least 10. It is a colloidal composition containing. The silicon-containing salt is preferably silica or sodium silicate, while the boron-containing salt is borax or boric acid. The composition comprises a combination of an alkali metal hydroxide and a silicon-containing salt, preferably a colloidal solution (or suspension), an alkali metal salt of silicic acid, such as sodium or potassium silicate, or an aqueous solution of an alkali metal hydroxide. Silica dissolved in it. The composition is an aqueous colloidal suspension. A useful description of the properties of colloidal silica can be found in Ralph K. et al. It can be found in "The Chemistry of Silica" by Ralph K. Iler, John Wiley & Sons, New York (1979). Preferably, the alkali metal hydroxide is sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, especially the latter. Two mixtures are also useful. Generally, the silicon-containing salt is present at a concentration of about 2 to about 20% mass / mass (weight / weight), at least about 4% mass / mass (weight / weight), and the boron-containing salt (eg, borax) is It is present at a concentration of about 2 to about 20% mass / mass (weight / weight). The composition comprises a preservative present in a stabilizing amount, such as tripotassium citrate, and an aluminum halide, such as aluminum trichloride or aluminum trifluoride, present up to about 1.0% mass / mass (weight / weight). Can be included. In general, colloidal particles exhibit a high zeta potential, ie, about -40 to -75 mV.

The method for producing the composition of the present invention comprises:
(A) mixing the boron-containing salt with an alkali metal colloidal composition of a silicon-containing salt having a pH of at least about 10;
(B) optionally adding aluminum halide and preservative, and (c) mixing to form a uniform colloidal composition that is supersaturated with respect to the boron-containing salt.

The most abundant silicon-containing salts occur naturally as silica and are also known as silicon dioxide (SiO ₂ ). It contains approximately 60% soil surface in free form (eg sand) or in combination with other oxides in the form of silicates. Silica has been found to have no significant toxic effects when ingested by humans (as SiO ₂ or silicates) and is found uniformly in drinking water in most public water systems throughout the United States. A preferred composition useful in the present invention is an alkaline aqueous silica colloidal composition, which may be referred to as a solution or colloidal suspension.

Aqueous compositions are made by dissolving particulate silica in highly alkaline water made by dissolving a strong base in water to give a basic (ie, pH above 7, preferably at least 10) aqueous solution. Is done. In general, the strong base is sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, preferably the latter. To produce the alkaline solution, an amount of at least 3 moles is generally used, and 4 moles or less are generally required. Since the solubility of silica (the ability to form a stable colloidal composition) increases with increasing temperature, it is preferred to heat the alkaline solution to a temperature above the ambient temperature and below the boiling point of the solution. Temperatures above this can be used, but are generally not preferred due to the need for a pressurized container. It is believed that when silica is dissolved in water made alkaline with sodium hydroxide, a sodium silicate solution is formed. The composition varies with changes in the sodium to silica ratio, such as density. The higher the ratio of Na ₂ O to SiO _2, the greater the alkalinity and the more sticky the solution. Alternatively, the same result can be achieved by dissolving solid sodium silicate in water. A number of aqueous sodium silicate colloidal compositions are commercially available at about 20 to about 50% weight / volume. A well-known solution is known as an “egg preserver”, which can be produced by this method and contains about 40% (by weight) Na ₂ Si ₃ O ₇ . (Usually available dry form of sodium silicate). A standard commercially available sodium silicate is 27% weight / volume sodium silicate.

  Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the chemistry of dissolution can be approximated by the following equation:

  This is discussed further in the aforementioned Iler book.

Once the colloidal alkaline silica composition has been prepared, a boron-containing salt, such as boric acid or a metal borate, such as sodium borate, ie borax, is added to the mixture, preferably as a finely divided powder. The addition of a boron-containing salt is believed to help form a stable colloidal composition having boron ions integrated into the colloidal structure. In addition, aluminum halides and preservatives can also be added. The addition of a B ⁺⁺⁺ ion source, preservatives such as ^tripotassium citrate and aluminum halide can lead to the polymerization of Si (OH) ₄ , as depicted below.

This appears to lead to colloidal particles in which B ⁺⁺⁺ ions are sequestered as shown in FIG. Note in FIG. 1 that the alkali used can be potassium hydroxide which gives K ⁺ ions together with TPC. The colloid of this composition is believed to be more tightly bound and widely branched than known colloidal systems. FIG. 2 is further considered to represent a typical bilayer of water found on typical silica colloidal particles.

In this method, the boron-containing salt is preferably those known in borax, i.e. sodium borate, also sodium borate and other names, having the formula Na ₂ B ₄ O _7. It is often found as a decahydrate.

  Once the aqueous composition of the present invention has been prepared, it is preferably further processed to provide a supersaturated solution of the boron salt. Preferably the composition is treated to increase the electrostatic charge on the particles. During manufacture of the composition of the present invention, it is important to maintain the temperature above ambient temperature to maintain salt solubility. If the composition passes the electret generator and achieves a higher zeta potential, the composition will stabilize. This is done using the generator shown in FIGS. Further details can be found in US Patent Application No. 1 to Holcomb, filed December 26, 2000 and published as US 2001/0027219 on October 4, 2001. 09 / 749,243 and US Pat. No. 5,537,363 issued July 16, 1996 to Holcomb, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. take in. The sizes and volumes in these publications and the specification are illustrative only and not limiting. The function of the generator requires a pump (1) which is contained in the inclusion means (3) and pumps the composition (5) of the invention flowing through the conduit (2) and the pump (1). The pump (1) produces a speed that depends on the size of the pump and conduit. This can be 1-100 gallons per minute (gpm). In smaller systems, a flow of 4-10 gpm and a pressure of 20 psi can be seen. Fluid at the pressure and velocity described above flows through the conduit (6) and enters the conduit means (7). The fluid flows through the conduit means (7) and exits through the hole (8) to the conduit means (13), after which the fluid flows in the opposite direction and then exits through the hole (9). The direction is again reversed through the conduit means (14). Fluid exits the conduit means (14) through the opening (10) to the conduit means (15), this fluid enters the chamber (11), exits the generator through the conduit (12), It is carried through the conduits (4a) and (4b) and returns to the inclusion means (5).

  FIG. 4 illustrates the function and location of the magnetic amplifier unit of the generator, along with “offline” chemical mixing inclusion means (22). The extended high velocity flowing through the countercurrent device of the present invention creates a multi-directional magnetic field that creates a static charge on the adjacent moving charged colloidal particles moving during the countercurrent process. Due to the stream charge effect, the colloids of the present invention are produced. With the addition of the magnetic amplifier unit of FIG. 4, an electrostatic charge is generated on the colloid more quickly. When the device of FIG. 4 is in full operation, valve (17) in conduit (4a) is closed, valve (16) in conduit (18) is opened, and valve (20) in conduit (19). Will be opened. The flow passes through conduit (4b) to conduit (18) and from chemical supply device (29) charged through conduits (30) and (31) to containment vessel (22) to which chemicals can be added. move on. The chemical containing container (22) is heated by an electric heater (21) powered by a cord (25) and pulled by a belt (33) on a belt wheel (27) powered by a motor (28). It is agitated by the paddle (23) through the shaft (24) rotated by the belt wheel (26). The heated fluid with dissolved chemicals is pumped by pump (32) through conduit (19) to conduit (4) and back to containment means (5).

  As can be seen from FIG. 5, there are multiple gradients in the pipeline in the z-axis, and these gradients are also present in the x and y axes. The multi-gradient effect is responsible for the electrostatic charge that forms on the particles as the generator continues to produce material. The top of FIG. 5 shows a top cross-sectional view of the concentric conduit shown in FIG. As can be seen from FIG. 5, the magnetic amplifier unit (eg, unit A) includes a plurality of magnets (eg, electromagnets). Here, four magnets arranged in one plane are shown, and vertices of a quadrilateral shape (for example, a rectangle or a square) are formed in the plane. The poles of adjacent magnets are oriented oppositely, as indicated by the “+” and “−” symbols shown in FIG. As shown at the bottom of FIG. 5, this arrangement of four magnets creates a multiple gradient in the magnetic field in the z-axis (ie, the component of the magnetic field along the axis extending out of the plane shown at the top of FIG. ). Here, a measurement for the magnetic field in the z-axis along line A-A 'is shown, which is replaced approximately 1 inch above the plane of the magnet. Gradients can also exist for magnetic fields in the x-axis and y-axis (ie, components of the magnetic field along lines A-A 'and B-B'). These multiple gradients are responsible for significant electrostatic charges that can occur on the silica colloidal particles as the generator continues to produce aqueous compositions. Silica having a size in the range of about 1 to about 200 μm, typically in the range of about 1 to about 150 μm or about 1 to about 110 μm, by treating the aqueous composition with the generator shown in FIG. Colloidal particles can be produced. The silica colloidal particles can have a zeta potential in the range of about −5 millivolts (mV) to greater than about −75 mV, typically in the range of about −30 mV to about −40 mV to −75 mV. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the zeta potential indicates the electrostatic charge exhibited by the colloidal particles, and a large zeta potential typically represents a more stable colloidal system (eg, intraparticle repulsion). As a result of).

Example 1
This example describes a method of making a typical composition of the present invention.

The detailed manufacture of the composition can be depicted by reference to FIG. The starting solution is added to the container means (5). The solution contains 1,846.2 ml of 26.0% sodium silicate with a sufficient amount of water to bring the volume to 6,500 ml. The solution is circulated through the generator with valve (16) and valve (20) closed, but valve (17) open. In a working generator, 500 grams of KOH granules are slowly added to the solution. The composition is circulated at 60 ° C. for 30 minutes. Two liters of solution flow to the containment means (22) by opening the valve (16) and closing the valve (17). When 2 liters flowed into the containment means (22), the valve (20) is opened and 800 grams of tripotassium citrate slowly passes through the chemical feeder (29) in the containment means (22). Add to solution and stir with paddle (23) and bar (24) until dissolved. 1,000 grams of borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate) is added to the solution through the chemical feeder (29). Borax is dissolved by stirring with a paddle (23) on the shaft (24). The generator operates for 1 hour. A second 1,000 grams of borax is added and circulated until dissolved. The temperature is maintained at 60 ° C. The generator operates for 1 hour and a third 1,000 grams of borax is added, stirred and circulated until dissolved. 10 grams of AlF ₃ is added and run for 1 hour by the generator until the final pH is 10.8. The composition is bottled by closing valve (16), opening valve (17) and pumping solution from inclusion means (22) via conduit (4) to inclusion means (5) by pump (32). .
Example 2
This example describes the method of the present invention for pressure treatment of wood. Referring to FIG. 8, the timber (56) to be treated is placed in a pressure chamber (54) and sealed with a door (55). Valves (58) and (64) are closed. The valve (68) is opened and the vacuum pump (67) is powered through the power conduit (19b). In one embodiment of this system, the vacuum pump (67) is a 26 inch vacuum pump. However, the vacuum pump can be any size vacuum pump, such as a 30 inch vacuum pump.

A vacuum pump (67) operates in the chamber (54) to remove the gas contained in the wood fibers. The vacuum removes gas from the edge of the wood. Thus, the length of time required to maintain a vacuum in the chamber (54) depends on the amount, type and length of wood being processed. For example, for a small amount of wood, the vacuum can be maintained for 15 minutes, and for a large amount of wood or long pieces of wood, the vacuum can be maintained for 45 minutes. The valve (58) is then opened and the composition of the present invention (eg, a boron-containing salt for 6% SiO ₂ and 8% boron ions) is included in the inclusion means (62) and / or storage means (66). To the chamber (4) and then to the wood. The composition travels through the conduit (65) from the storage means (66) to the inclusion means (62). The composition travels from inclusion means (62) to chamber (54) through conduits (57) and (60). Prior to entering the chamber (54), the composition can pass through the boiler (59). The boiler (59) is any type of heating element that maintains the temperature of the composition as it circulates through the system.

  In an alternative embodiment, before entering the processing chamber, SILENE ™ (calcium silicate) is mixed with water at a low concentration (eg, 1.5%) of silane and the wood is Treated with the silene composition and the composition of the present invention.

  If the preservative fills the chamber (54) and the wood is immersed in the preservative, the system is subjected to a pressure step.

  In one embodiment of the method, liquid pressure is applied to the system. In this embodiment, a vacuum is drawn, valve (68) is closed, valve (58) is opened, and liquid pressure pump (P) is switched on. When the chamber is filled with liquid from containment means (62) through conduit (60), boiler (59) and conduit (57) (conduit (57) moves towards the open end of the chamber), the pump (P) continues to operate and valve (64) is partially opened. A partial restriction maintains the pressure in the tank and still circulates. The entire system can be equipped with pH and TDS (total dissolved salt) sensors so that the constituent solutions can be added when needed. The entire system can be computer controlled.

  In one embodiment, the liquid pressure is maintained at about 150 pounds per square inch and the temperature is maintained at about 140 ° F. for a period of 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, in other embodiments, other pressures, other temperatures, and other times can be used.

In another embodiment of the system, gas pressure is applied to the system. In this embodiment, the system is circulated under a pressure pump (P). Pressure is applied to the wood compartment (4) by the CO ₂ container (51) through the conduit (53) and the valve (69). The composition is a small particle colloid at high pH is converted to partially gel the CO _2. This seems to lower the pH at the surface of the wood. The pressure is applied to the system anywhere from about 30 minutes to about 2 hours. The time that pressure is applied to the system depends on the amount, type and length of the wood being treated.

  When the pressure phase is complete, the chamber is evacuated. The treated wood is then removed from the chamber (54) and dried for about 30 days.

The formulation of the composition can be varied for better penetration. Boric acid can be substituted for borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate), and if boric acid is used, the amount is 1.22 times greater than borax.
Example 3
This composition of the invention is designed to be applied or sprayed onto a deck or timber.
1. 1200 ml of 4M HCl is added to 5,300 ml of distilled water and placed in the generator.
2. Slowly add 800 mg of tripotassium citrate solution to the reservoir. Circulate for 30 minutes.
3. 1000 grams of borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate) is dissolved in 1846.2 ml of 26% sodium silicate. Add 500 grams of KOH, dissolve when necessary, and add 200 grams of NaOH. Heat to 200 ° F to dissolve.
4). A portion of the borax / sodium silicate solution is slowly added to the generator over 1 hour or until pH 7.6 and 10 grams of AlF ₃ is added. Continue adding borax / sodium silicate at 46.3 ° C. until pH 10.76 is reached.
5. Add 1000 ml of the above solution to a constantly stirred vessel at pH 11.33 and a temperature of 22.2 ° C. Titrate with HCl 1: 3 (using 150 ml of HCl x 150 ml) and slowly add 4 liters of the above pressure treated solution to 4 liters of the inventive solution (Example 2) and stir. This solution is clear and penetrates wood well.
Example 4
In this example, the above composition of the invention (Example 3) is combined with a wood sealer. In one embodiment, the wood sealer is a 10% active blend of Silene (calcium silicate) blended with absolute alcohol. A spray of the composition (from Example 3) is applied to the flooring and allowed to dry for 3-4 hours. The wood sealer is then applied to the floorboard. By reacting with silica, the wood sealer reacts chemically with the flooring agent. A timber treated with a water repellent sealer is obtained.
Example 5
Another embodiment of the present invention is carried out by the synthesis of 21% borax and 21% SiO ₂ in a saturated solution. This solution is very viscous. Heated, mixed with any type of fiber and dried under a hot roller press to make a sheet of building material that is very strong and fireproof. All products treated with the present invention are flame retardant.
Example 6
Southern yellow pine 2 "x 4" pieces of wood and the same size white oak were pressure treated according to the present invention. Immediate weight gain and weight gain after one month are assigned.

例７
本発明のこの例においては、木材の敷板に噴霧するのに使用することができる組成物が製造される。この組成物は、以下の手順を用いて製造することができる。
Ａ． 溶液Ａの製造
１） ４３１．３４０リットルの４Ｎ ＨＣｌを１９０５．０８５リットルのＨ₂Ｏに、無機ポリマーエレクトレット発生器（例えば２０００年１２月２６日に出願された米国特許出願０９／７４９，２４３参照）中で加え、３０分間循環させる。

Example 7
In this example of the invention, a composition is produced that can be used to spray on a wood floor. This composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
A. Preparation of Solution A 1) 431.340 liters of 4N HCl into 1905.085 liters of H ₂ O, inorganic polymer electret generator (see, eg, US patent application 09 / 749,243 filed December 26, 2000) ) And circulate for 30 minutes.

  2) Slowly add 287.560 kg of tripotassium citrate to the generator reservoir and circulate for 30 minutes.

3) Dissolve 202.185 kg of borax in 995.425 liters of 27% NaSiO ₄ . 101.095 kg of KOH is added to this solution to dissolve the borax. 38 kg NaOH is added and the solution is heated to 220 ° F. Once all the borax has dissolved, an additional two additional doses of 202.185 kg of borax are added at once to dissolve the total amount of 606.455 kg of borax.

  4) Slowly add the borax / sodium silicate solution to the generator over 1/2 hour.

5) Slowly add 3.594 kg of AlF ₃ to the generator reservoir and circulate for 1 hour.
B. Preparation of solution B 1) Add 673.491 liters of 27 wt.% Sodium silicate NaSiO ₄ to sufficient water to obtain 2,556.680 liters of solution.

  2) Slowly add 394.72 kg of KOH pellets.

  3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.

  4) Draw out 799.44 liters from the generator vessel. Transfer to a 200 ° F heating pot. Stir in 222.03 kg KOH pellets and continue to heat and stir until clear.

  5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.

  6) Remove 1184.2 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 18.872 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 333.056 kg of boric acid and stir. Add 57 kg NaOH pellets and stir until clear.

  7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters drawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  9) Remove 1200 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 38.25 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 263.25 kg of boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.

  10) Add 1200 liters of # 9 above to the generator and let it run for 10 minutes.

11) Remove 600 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg of AlF ₃ , add it back to the generator with enough H ₂ O to make 3000 liters. Circulate for 30 minutes and place in a container.
C. Production of the final product 1) Add 1500 liters of Solution B to the generator and slowly titrate 1500 liters of Solution A over 15 minutes and run for 15 minutes.

The composition produced using this procedure has silica present (possibly as sodium silicate) at a concentration of about 6% by weight (calculated by known weight / volume) and known weight / volume. With borax present (as boron ions) at a concentration of about 4.5% by weight calculated by. The composition produced using this procedure has a pH of about 10.
Example 8
In this example of the invention, a composition is produced that can be used for spraying on a CCA treated wood flooring. The composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
A. Preparation of Solution A 1) 431.34 liters of 4N HCl is added to 1905.085 liters of H ₂ O in an inorganic polymer electret generator and circulated for 30 minutes.

  2) Slowly add 287.560 kg of tripotassium citrate to the generator reservoir and circulate for 30 minutes.

3) 89.860 kg of borax is dissolved in 1659.42 liters of 27% NaSiO ₄ . 44.931 kg of KOH is added to the solution to dissolve the borax. 16.888 kg of NaOH is added and the solution is heated to 200 ° F. Two additional batches of 89.860 kg borax are added separately to the solution and each portion is dissolved separately.

  4) Slowly add the borax / sodium silicate solution to the generator over 1/2 hour.

5) Slowly add 3.594 kg of AlF ₃ to the generator reservoir and circulate for 1 hour.
B. Preparation of Solution B 1) 1122.484 liters of 27 wt.% NaSiO ₄ sodium silicate with sufficient water are added to give 2,556.680 liters of solution.

  2) Slowly add 175.431 kg of KOH pellets.

  3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.

  4) Draw out 799.44 liters from the generator vessel. Transfer to a 200 ° F heating pot. Stir in 98.679 kg boric acid with 33.353 kg NaOH pellets, continue heating and stir until clear.

  5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.

  6) Remove 1184.2 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 8.379 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 147.887 kg of boric acid, stir and add 25.308 kg of NaOH pellets. Stir until clear.

  7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters drawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  9) Remove 1200 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 16.983 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 196.83 kg of boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.

  10) Add 1200 liters of # 9 above to the generator and let it run for 10 minutes.

11) Remove 600 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg of AlF ₃ , add it back to the generator with enough H ₂ O to make 3000 liters. Circulate for 30 minutes.
C. Production of the final product 1) Add 1500 liters of Solution B to the generator and slowly titrate 1500 liters of Solution A over 15 minutes and run for 15 minutes.

The composition produced using this procedure has silica present at a concentration of about 10% by weight calculated by known weight / volume and about 2% by weight calculated at known weight / volume ( Having borate ions present in a concentration of% by weight. Compositions made using this procedure have a pH of about 10.4 to about 10.6.
Example 9
In this example of the invention, a composition is produced that can be used to pressure treat wood. This composition provides termite resistance to the wood. The composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
1) 897.988 liters of 27 wt.% NaSiO ₄ is added with sufficient water to produce a 2,556.68 liter solution.
2) Add 197.360 kg of KOH pellets slowly with stirring.
3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.
4) Remove 592.1 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Stir in 197.360 kg boric acid with 66.708 kg NaOH pellets. Continue heating and stir until clear.
5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.
6) Remove 592.1 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 16.776 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 296.05 kg of boric acid. Stir and add 50.00 kg NaOH pellets or stir until clear.
7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters drawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
9) Remove 600 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 34 kg NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 234 kg boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.
10) Add 600 liters of above # 9 back to the generator and run for 10 minutes.
11) Withdraw 600 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg AlF ₃ and add back to the generator with enough H ₂ O if necessary to produce 3000 liters of solution. Circulate for 30 minutes.

The composition produced using this procedure has silica present at a concentration of about 8% by weight calculated by known weight / volume and about 4% by weight calculated by known weight / volume ( (Weight) Concentration of borate ions. Compositions made using this procedure have a pH of about 10.5 to about 11.5.
Example 10
In this example of the invention, a composition that can be used to pressure treat utility ties, such as railroad ties and building timber, as well as rail piles used in marine environments is produced. Is done. The composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
1) Add 1,122.485 liters of 27 wt.% NaSiO ₄ with sufficient water to make a 2,556.68 liter solution.
2) Slowly add 394.72 kg of KOH pellets with stirring.
3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.
4) Remove 986.6 liters from the generator vessel. Transfer to a 200 ° F heating pot. Stir in 493.4 kg of boric acid with 166.77 kg of NaOH pellets. Continue heating and stir until clear.
5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.
6) Remove 1,480.25 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 41.9375 kg of NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 740.125 kg of boric acid. Stir and add 125.00 kg NaOH pellets or stir until clear.
7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters withdrawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
9) Remove 1500 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 85 kg NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 585.0 kg boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.
10) Add 1500 liters of the above # 9 back to the generator and run for 10 minutes.
11) Remove 1000 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg of AlF ₃ and add back to the generator with enough H ₂ O if necessary to produce 3000 liters of solution and circulate for 30 minutes.

The composition produced using this procedure has silica present at a concentration of about 10% by weight (calculated by known weight / volume) and about 10% (calculated by known weight / volume) Having borate ions present in a concentration of% by weight. The composition produced by this method has a pH of about 10.5 or greater.
Example 11
In this example of the invention, a composition is produced that can be used to pressure treat wood. This composition provides a high termite barrier to the wood. The composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
1) In addition with 897.988 liters of 27 weight (wt)% NaSiO ₄ sufficient water, a solution of 2,556.68 liters.
2) Slowly add 394.72 kg of KOH pellets with stirring.
3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.
4) Draw out 799.44 liters from the generator vessel. Transfer to a 200 ° F heating pot. Stir in 394.72 kg of boric acid with 133.416 kg of NaOH pellets, continue heating and stir until clear.
5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.
6) Remove 1184.2 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 33.55 kg of NaOH pellets, slowly dissolve 599.20 kg of boric acid, stir, add 100.00 kg of NaOH pellets, or stir until clear.
7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters drawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.
9) Remove 1200 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 68 kg NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 468.00 kg boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.
10) Add 1200 liters of # 9 above to the generator and let it run for 10 minutes.
11) Remove 600 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg of AlF ₃ and add back to the generator with enough water to produce a 3,000 liter solution. Circulate for 30 minutes.

The composition produced using this procedure has silica present at a concentration of about 8% by weight (calculated by known weight / volume) and about 8% by weight calculated by known weight / volume ( (Weight) Concentration of borate ions. Compositions made using this procedure have a pH of about 10.5 or greater.
Example 12
In this example of the invention, a composition is produced that can be sprayed onto wood to help protect the wood against termites. The composition can be manufactured using the following procedure.
A. Preparation of Solution A 1) 431.340 liters of 4N HCl is added to 1905.085 liters of H ₂ O in an inorganic polymer electret generator and circulated for 30 minutes.

  2) Slowly add 287.560 kg of tripotassium citrate to the generator reservoir and circulate for 30 minutes.

3) Dissolve 359.44 kg of borax in 663.617 liters of 27% NaSiO ₄ in three portions. 179.725 kg of KOH is added to the solution to dissolve the borax. 71.890 kg NaOH is added and the solution is heated to 200 ° F.

  4) Slowly add the borax / sodium silicate solution to the generator over 1/2 hour.

5) Slowly add 3.594 kg of AlF ₃ to the generator reservoir and circulate for 1 hour.
B. Preparation of Solution B 1) Add 448.994 liters of 27 wt.% NaSiO ₄ with enough H ₂ O to make 2,556.68 liters of solution.

  2) Slowly add 394.72 kg of KOH pellets.

  3) Circulate for 30 minutes in electret generator as above.

  4) Draw out 799.44 liters from the generator vessel. Transfer to a 200 ° F heating pot. Stir in 394.72 kg of boric acid with 133.416 kg of NaOH pellets, continue heating and stir until clear.

  5) Return to the generator and circulate for 30 minutes.

  6) Remove 1184.2 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 33.55 kg of NaOH pellets, slowly dissolve 599.20 kg of boric acid, stir, add 100.00 kg of NaOH pellets, or stir until clear.

  7) Add 315 kg of tripotassium citrate to 300 liters drawn from the generator vessel, stir until dissolved, return to generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  8) Return # 6 above to the generator and circulate for 10 minutes.

  9) Remove 1200 liters from the generator vessel and transfer to a 200 ° F. heating pot. Add 68 kg NaOH pellets and slowly dissolve 468.00 kg boric acid. A sufficient amount of additional NaOH is added to dissolve the boric acid.

  10) Add 1200 liters of # 9 above to the generator and let it run for 10 minutes.

11) Remove 600 liters from the generator vessel, dissolve 3.947 kg of AlF ₃ and add it back to the generator with enough H ₂ O to produce a 3000 liter solution. Circulate for 30 minutes.
C. Production of the final product 1) Add 1500 liters of Solution B to the generator and slowly titrate 1500 liters of Solution A over 15 minutes and run for 15 minutes.

  The composition produced using this procedure has silica present at a concentration of about 4% by weight calculated by known weight / volume and about 8% by weight calculated by known weight / volume ( (Weight) Concentration of borate ions. Compositions made using this procedure have a pH of about 10.2 or greater.

FIG. 1 shows a possible development of the polymer in an electret generator that has a step gradient magnetic field with K ⁺ ions or nuclei, sequestered boron ions and water and stabilized with K ⁺ ions. FIG. 2 shows bound water on a typical colloidal particle made by standard activation techniques. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an electret generator useful for making the compositions of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the electret generator of FIG. 3 illustrating three magnetic quadrupole booster generators and other modifications. FIG. 5 shows a detailed schematic diagram of a magnetic quadrupole generator with flux field and gradient. FIG. 6 shows the sequestration of boron ions by the silica colloid in the composition of the present invention. FIG. 7 shows the pressure treatment apparatus of the present invention for treating various wood products.

Claims (44)

  A method for reducing the rate of degradation of wood, wherein an aqueous mixture comprising an alkaline colloidal composition of a silicon-containing salt incorporated with boron ions and wood are dipped in the mixture with at least a portion of the wood A method comprising contacting for a sufficient amount of time.   The method of claim 1 wherein the wood is contacted by immersing the wood in an aqueous mixture at a pressure above atmospheric pressure in a closed container.   The method of claim 2, wherein the pressure is generated by increasing the flow rate of the aqueous mixture into the vessel while reducing the flow rate exiting the vessel.   The method of claim 2, wherein the pressure is from about 125 psi to about 175 psi and occurs using liquid pressure.   The method of claim 4, wherein the pressure is maintained for about 30 minutes to about 2 hours.   The method of claim 5 wherein the dry weight of the wood is increased by about 20% to about 70% more than the original weight of the wood.   The method of claim 1, wherein after the wood is immersed in the composition, the wood is removed from contact with the aqueous composition and dried to provide a product in which silicon-containing and boron-containing salts are deposited.   The alkaline silicon-containing salt composition comprises water, silica, metal borate or boric acid, and optionally an aluminum halide, basified to pH of at least about 10 with an alkali metal hydroxide. the method of.   Water containing sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide to achieve a pH of about 10-11, about 2-20% weight / volume silica, about 2-20% weight / volume of the alkaline silicon-containing salt composition The method of claim 7 comprising a boron-containing salt and optionally an aluminum halide.   The alkaline silicon-containing salt composition comprises water containing about 3 to about 4 molar sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, about 2 to about 20% weight / volume silicate form silica, about 2 to about 9. The process of claim 8 comprising 20% weight / volume borax, about 0.1 to about 1% weight / volume aluminum halide and a stabilizing amount of tripotassium citrate.   The method of claim 9 wherein the water comprises potassium hydroxide.   The method of claim 1, wherein the wood is contacted by applying an aqueous composition to the surface of the wood at ambient pressure and drying it.   The method of claim 12, wherein the aqueous composition is applied with a brush.   The method of claim 12, wherein the aqueous composition is applied by spraying.   The method of claim 2, wherein after the pressure treatment, the wood is dried under environmental conditions for at least 30 days.   The method of claim 2 wherein the wood is treated with an aqueous solution of calcium silicate together with an alkaline silicon-containing salt composition.   Articles of manufacture comprising silicon-containing salts, boron-containing salts and optionally wood soaked with aluminum halide.   The silicon-containing salt is present in the wood at a concentration of about 1 to about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight), and the boron-containing salt is in the wood at a concentration of about 1 to about 30% mass / mass (weight / weight). 18. A product according to claim 17 present in   The article of manufacture of claim 17 wherein the dry weight of the soaked wood is about 20 to about 70% greater than the corresponding unsoaked wood.   20. The article of manufacture of claim 19, wherein the soaked wood is substantially immersed throughout the structure of the wood.   The article of manufacture of claim 17 wherein the wood is immersed on the surface of the wood.   24. The article of manufacture of claim 21 wherein dipping occurs by spraying or brushing an alkaline colloidal silica composition supersaturated with a boron-containing salt and optionally an aluminum halide. water,
An amount of alkali metal hydroxide sufficient to bring the pH of the water to at least 10;
Silicon-containing salts,
Boron-containing salts,
A colloidal composition optionally containing an aluminum halide and optionally a preservative.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the alkali metal hydroxide is sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the alkali metal hydroxide is potassium hydroxide.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the composition is a colloidal suspension wherein the colloidal particles exhibit a zeta potential of about -40 to about -75 mV.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the silicon-containing salt is present at a concentration of about 2-20% weight / volume.   28. The composition of claim 27, wherein the silicon-containing salt is present at a concentration of at least about 4% weight / volume.   28. The composition of claim 27, wherein the boron-containing salt is present at a concentration of about 2-20% weight / volume.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the preservative is tripotassium citrate.   24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the aluminum halide is aluminum trichloride or aluminum trifluoride, present at up to about 1.0% weight / volume.   32. The composition of any one of claims 23-31, wherein the colloidal particles exhibit a zeta potential of about -40 to about -75 mV. A method for producing a composition suitable for reducing the rate of wood degradation, comprising:
(A) mixing the boron-containing salt with an alkali metal silicate colloidal mixture at a pH of at least 10;
(B) optionally adding an aluminum halide and preservative, and (c) mixing to form a uniform colloidal composition that is supersaturated with a boron-containing salt.   34. The method of claim 33, wherein the alkali metal silicate solution is adjusted to pH 10 using potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.   35. The method of claim 34, wherein the water is adjusted to a pH of at least 10 using potassium hydroxide.   35. The method of claim 34, wherein the boron containing salt is borax.   34. The method of claim 33, wherein the silicon-containing salt is present at a concentration of about 2 to about 20% weight / volume.   38. The method of claim 37, wherein the silicon-containing salt is present at a concentration of at least about 4% weight / volume.   34. The method of claim 33, wherein the boron-containing salt is present at a concentration of about 2-20% weight / volume.   34. The method of claim 33, wherein the preservative is tripotassium citrate.   35. The method of claim 33, wherein the aluminum halide is aluminum trichloride present at up to about 1.0% weight / volume.   42. The method of any one of claims 33-41, wherein the method is carried out under conditions that produce colloidal particles of the composition exhibiting a zeta potential of about -40 to about -75 mV.   43. The method of any one of claims 33-42, wherein the colloidal composition flows in a countercurrent manner through the magnetic field for a time sufficient to provide colloidal particles having a zeta potential of about -40 to about -75 mV.   The method of claim 2 wherein the soaking and pressure are maintained for a time sufficiently long to soak the wood substantially throughout its structure.

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