Safe and Ecological Preservation of Bamboo
I am designing a house to suite the emerging middle class in Ghana, looking to understand more about bamboo preservation techniques that offer excellent protection against rot and insects.
From what I’ve read thusfar, it seems that chemical treatments will be most effective, and I am searching for a solution that will be environmentally safe, to both nature and the inhabitants. Any recommendations, especially with regards to being situated in southern Ghana (a hot and humid climate with two distinct rainy seasons each year)?
⭐ Best Answer:
One of the most effective ways to cure bamboo is by mixing boric acid with borax (you can buy this as a pre-mixed solution under the name: Timbor) in a ratio of 1:1.5 with a concentration of 5%. In other words mix 2kg of boric acid with 3kg of borax in 100 liters of water. Perforate the diaphragms (in case of round poles) and submerge them in the water-boron mix for 4-5 days. The vertical soak diffusion is an alternative method for submerging bamboo in tanks.
Boron is basically a salt, it protects the bamboo from fungus and insect attacks. It is however a non-fixing preservative, which means the boron will leach out in direct contact with rain. This you will have to keep in mind when designing the house.In regards to its toxicity, boric acid naturally occurs in the environment. It can be found in soil, water, and plants. Boric acid dissolves in water and can move with water through the soil. Under certain soil conditions it can reach ground water. However, its mobility in soil depends on pH and the presence of some metals. Boric acid can also be taken up from the soil by plants. It moves through plants into their leaves. Once there, it generally becomes stuck and does not move into the fruit. Plants need boron, a major component of boric acid, to grow. However, too much boron can be toxic to plants affecting their growth. Citrus, stone fruits, and nut trees are most sensitive to boron.
Boric acid does not emit vapors into the atmosphere. Particles that get into the air do not break down. They settle to the ground or are removed by rain.
Boric acid is practically non-toxic to birds. It is slightly toxic to practically non-toxic to freshwater fish. Boric acid is practically non-toxic to frogs and toads and aquatic life, such as waterfleas. The U.S. EPA concluded that boric acid is relatively nontoxic to bees.
Source: National Pesticide Information Center
