Archroma, a provider of chemicals towards sustainable solutions, has introduced Siligen MIH liq, which is reportedly a new biocide-free wood protection technology the company has developed together with the University of Goettingen, Germany.
Most treatments used to protect wood are based on biocides and can contain potentially toxic substances such as heavy metals. Archroma and the University of Goettingen therefore decided to explore a solution to extend the life duration of outdoor wood materials, but also their appearance.
The result is Siligen MIH liq, an eco-advanced wood modification treatment to create more stable and durable solid woods, veneers and wood-based composites for applications such as windows, facade claddings, outdoor furniture, terrace decking, in-ground platforms, parquet flooring and marine applications.
According to Archroma, it is applied by impregnation and subsequent drying. Siligen MIH liq impregnated wood can be dried and the molecules fixated at less than 80°C with an equipment already available at most production facilities applying conventional biocides. The energy consumption is thus similar to most aqueous biocidal wood preservative treatments.
Wood treated with Siligen MIH liq is protected against decay fungi. Treated wood also displays improved weathering performance and keeps its natural appearance with less discolourations and change in feel.
Siligen MIH liq will be introduced at the Annual Conference of the International Research Group on Wood Protection IRG53 conference in Slovenia taking place on 29 May-2 June 2022 in Bled, Slovenia.
Professor Holger Militz, head of the department of wood biology and wood products at the University of Goettingen, commented: “Our research has been focusing for many years on the development of new wood protection systems. With Siligen MIH we explored a system where the wood is protected against fungi and termites without the need of complicated treatment technology. Existing vacuum and pressure plants and normal wood dryers are sufficient to use this new technology.”
Miquel Vila, global head of new markets at Archroma, concluded: “We are very excited to collaborate with like-minded partners such as the University of Goettingen. The new biocide-free wood protection technology Siligen MIH liq is a great illustration of ‘The Archroma Way to a Sustainable World: Safe, efficient, enhanced, it’s our nature.'”
