The organic nature of wood makes it susceptible to abiotic and biotic degradation. Impregnation with chemical products is the most common method of protection. Only inorganic borates combine the unique set of properties that make them well suited for wood protection: they are insecticidal, fungicidal and flame retardants. In this work, zinc borate is suspended in an ammonia solution and applied in depth to wood. Its resistance to leaching is evaluated. The product is tested against rot fungi (Gloeophyllum trabeum and Trametes versicolor) and a xylophagous insect (Anobium punctatum). The results verify its effectiveness as a wood protector, while leaching less than other borate-based products.

In Uruguay and neighbouring countries, Gleditsia triacanthos is an exotic tree species categorized as invasive; it produces severe ecological impact as it displaces native species, changing the structure of the native forest community. One way to mitigate its negative impact is to identify opportunities to use it by revaluating its biological products. This work studies the applicability of this species as a source of both combustible and non-wood products. The heat capacity, chemical composition, and anatomical description of its wood was determined. Polyphenols extracted by way of an adhesive for timber products were finally added, partially substituting petroleum derivatives; it showed promising results.