DECOMPOSITION OF METHAM SODIUM TO METHYLISOTHIOCYANATE AS AFFECTED BYWOOD SPECIES, TEMPERATURE, AND MOISTURE-CONTENT

The effect of various wood characteristics on decomposition of metham sodium to methylisothiocyanate in sixteen North American and Southeast Asian hardwoods and softwoods was investigated. While marked differen ces were noted in the degree of decomposition among some species, the relationship between decomposition and lignin content, extractive leve ls, wood pH, or 1% alkali solubility was slight within the various spe cies. Wood moisture content had the greatest influence on decompositio n, while temperature had a lesser effect. The results suggest that the wood environment could be manipulated to enhance metham sodium decomp osition, thereby allowing dosage to be reduced or the period between a pplications to be prolonged.