Research helps
p. 148 · Read in the full issue
timber industry
As a result of research into timl preservation by the CSIRO, m sawmillers in P-NG today sell p served timber which is an econor and reliable material for all norn building work.
The research was begun in 19 at the request of the Administrate because of the high cost of import] building materials (such as ste fibro and concrete) which coi withstand the tropical conditions.
The CSIRO recommended a sim] dip diffusion treatment (where sawn timber was complete immersed in a preservative) wh: could be used under the m primitive conditions and with i skilled labour.
As well as recommending the ( diffusion treatment, the CSII devised and patented a preservat which protected timber against 1 common hazards encountered in i tropics.
In addition, to cater for situatic where timber has to be used ground contact (e.g., in poles posts), several vacuum pressi impregnation plants have been esh lished in the territory. These pla; can supply timber treated w “Tanalith” which is so highly fiii in the timber that it can be us even for boat building.
Over recent years, timber preset tion has become so important the territory that a new compai Hickson’s Timber Preservation (N( Pty. Ltd. has established a manuft turing plant in Lae. This compa supplies wood preservatives and te( nical advice to the timber indusl of P-NG and adjacent territories.