In numerous fields such as construction, furniture manufacturing, and the installation of outdoor facilities, wood is widely used. However, the problem that wood is vulnerable to attacks by decay fungi, insects, and other pests has always troubled people. Alum, as a substance with unique chemical properties, exhibits astonishing effects in wood preservation.
I. Inhibiting Microbial Growth
- Altering the Wood Microenvironment: After alum is dissolved, its aqueous solution can penetrate into the cell gaps of the wood. Aluminum ions diffuse inside the wood, changing the internal pH environment of the wood and creating conditions unfavorable for the growth and reproduction of decay fungi. Most decay fungi prefer a neutral to slightly acidic environment, and the acidic environment introduced by alum can effectively inhibit their activity, reducing the risk of wood decay from the root.
- Damaging Microbial Cell Structures: Aluminum ions also have the ability to act directly on microbial cells. They can bind to the proteins on the cell membrane surface of decay fungi, leading to changes in the permeability of the cell membrane and the leakage of intracellular substances. Eventually, the microbial cells are damaged or even die, further ensuring the long-term durability of the wood.
II. Preventing Insect and Ant Infestation
- Forming a Taste Deterrent: For pests that feed on wood, such as termites and ants, alum has a special smell and taste. This unpleasant taste stimulus can repel them, causing them to actively avoid wood treated with alum. When these pests attempt to bite the wood, the taste of alum will make them flinch and turn to look for other food sources.
- Hindering Digestion and Absorption: Even if some pests accidentally ingest wood containing alum, the alum will also play a role in their bodies. It will interfere with the activity of enzymes in the pest’s digestive system, hindering the decomposition and absorption of the nutritional components of the wood by the pests, resulting in stunted growth and even death of the pests, thus putting a solid “anti-insect armor” on the wood.
III. Enhancing the Physical Properties of Wood
- Reinforcing the Cell Structure: During the process of penetrating into the wood, alum will react chemically with some components in the wood to form a cross-linked structure, just like building countless tiny “bridges” inside the wood, strengthening the connections between wood cells. This makes the wood more compact, increases its hardness and compressive strength, and makes it less likely to deform or break due to external forces, extending the service life of the wood in various application scenarios.
- Reducing Water Absorption: After being treated with alum, the surface of the wood will form a relatively dense protective film, which can reduce the wood’s ability to adsorb water. Since water is one of the key factors leading to wood decay and deformation, reducing water absorption means reducing the possibility of problems caused by moisture, allowing the wood to maintain a relatively stable state even in a humid environment.
In conclusion, with its outstanding performance in inhibiting microorganisms, preventing insects, and enhancing wood properties, alum provides an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for wood preservation, helping wood to continue to shine in various fields.
