Field study to investigate the leaching and dislodgeability of copper, chromium and arsenic residues from CCA-C treated lumber and to evaluate means for reducing environmental contamination and user exposure
This study was carried out to investigate and measure the amounts of copper, chromium and arsenic residues being leached or dislodged from the surfaces of CCA-C pressure treated lumber in outdoor test structures exposed to natural weathering conditions. Pressure treated lumber purchased locally was used to construct a test structure, consisting of various horizontal, vertical and diagonal components, as well as fence sections. These structures were located at the site of Forintek Canada Corp.'s Ottawa laboratory. Various sections or components of these structures were coated with different types of wood finishes, including paint, varnish, stain and sealer, in order to evaluate their effect on reducing leaching and dislodgeability.