Borax and boric acid impregnation into Guadua angustifolia Kunth cane by immersion method

Abstract

Guadua angustifolia Kunth cane is a material that has a great potential for industrialization, but it lacks a technical guide for its preservation. The objective of this research was to quantify impregnation levels of the boron salt preservative applied by the immersion method in Guadua angustifolia Kunth cane. Fresh mature cane test tubes were used, which were oven-dried and submerged during different time periods in a solution made of borax and 4% boric acid. For the qualitative analysis, the specimens were cut in half crosswise and the segments were exposed to revealing substances made from Curcuma longa and hydrochloric acid. Additionally, the dimension of the coloration obtained after this chemical reaction was evaluated through quantitative analysis using formulas. The main results showed that, in order to obtain absorption levels higher than 200 kg/m3, it is necessary that the samples have a moisture content of less than 15% prior to preservation. In addition, it was established that an immersion time of at least 72 hours guarantees reaching an effective retention toxic level of 0.40 to 0.50 kg/m3 active product.