Satish Kumar , Meirisiyang Pamei , J. Durai. , S. T. S. Lepcha

Abstract

Moulds and beetles often attack bamboo furniture/structures due to inadequate preservative treatment. Remediation or eradication of infestation often involves expensive chemicals and methods, which are not available in villages. Novel inexpensive methods using easily available chemicals were developed for controlling such infestations. Whereas application of common baking soda can be used to prevent moulds, fumigation with ammonia or localized heat treatment can get rid of beetles.

Keywords

Bamboo Furniture, Remedial Treatment, Fumigation, Beetles, Heat Treatment

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S. T. S. Lepcha , Satish Kumar

Abstract

Results of preliminary tests on efficacy of Agave spp. locally called 'Rambans' extract against bamboo inhabiting moulds, borers and termites are reported. Agave extract has been found to resist termite and borer attack in bamboo, but has been found ineffective in preventing growth of mould fungi.

Keywords

Agave Extract, Biocides, Preservation, Bamboo, Fungi & Insects

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Kamini Kohli , Satish Kumar

Abstract

Rising levels of atmospheric pollution have been responsible for imposition of restrictions on use of persistent type insecticides and toxic chemicals. Some of the most effective wood preservatives are likely to be phased out by the turn of century. Since preservation of wood has to continue, new techniques involving use of non-toxic chemicals are being developed arond the world. This paper compares the performance and suitability of acetylation process developed by Wood Preservation Branch using thioacetic acid, with other processes using other reagents. The process compares well and has an edge over other processes being more effective against fungal and termite attack, improvement in dimensional stability and mechanical strength.

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Satish Kumar , Ravi Kumar , Neeraj Kumar , Rajendra Singh

Abstract

A study was conducted to estimate the biomass production and nutrient removal by eight years old poplar plantation raised at different spacing in a replicated randomized block design having three spacing of 5 × 4 m, 10 × 2.5 m and 15 × 2.5 m. Biomass of all the plant parts decreased with increasing tree spacing except that the differences between 10 × 2.5 m and 15 × 2.5 m spacing in respect of leaves and branches biomass were not significant. The total tree biomass including litter fall was higher in 5 × 4 m (415 t/ha) followed by 10 × 2.5 m (330 t/ha) and 15 × 2.5 m (192 t/ha) spacing. Concentration of both primary and secondary nutrients in different plant parts differed significantly at different spacing. Maximum nutrient concentration was recorded in leaves at 15 × 2.5 m spacing. However, poplar stem accounted for maximum uptake of all the nutrients. Among poplar spacing, closer tree spacing of 5 × 4 m recorded maximum uptake of both primary and secondary nutrients except that K and Mg uptake was maximum at 10 × 2.5 m spacing.

Keywords

Biomass Production, Populus deltoides, Nutrient Removal, Family Saliaceae

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