Effect of a Polymer Additive on Properties of Creosote-Treated Wood

Abstract

The potential for using a low molecular weight polyethylene (PE) polymer to improve the properties of creosote-treated wood was evaluated on samples of six different wood species. Samples were impregnated with creosote alone or amended with the PE additive and then tested to failure in third-point loading to determine modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture. Samples were then subjected to three soak–dry cycles to assess the impact of moisture uptake on fastener performance or water repellency. The presence of the PE was associated with lower preservative retentions, but had no significant effect on modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, water repellency, or fastener withdrawal resistance. The results suggest that the additive limited preservative uptake, but did not improve any of the wood properties evaluated.