The Bioguard Bandage consists of discs or pills of a solid wood preservative which are preformed into individual round recesses (which are 8mm deep and open on one side) within an impervious flexible polyethylene outer cover. A biodegradable paper on the inside of the bandage acts as a permeable membrane which helps control the release of the bandage contents and keeps the pills in the bandage intact. Because of this unique design, workers do not come into contact with the chemical when applying the bandage. The bandage is wrapped around the pole surface in the critical zone just below groundline.
How does the bandage work?
In the presence of moisture inside the wood, the pellets within the bandage will slowly dissolve releasing the active ingredients, killing white rot, brown rot or soft rot and providing protection to the sound wood from further attack. The bandage is effective in protecting wooden poles from biodegradation for up to 5 years.
The Bioguard bandage was developed and produced in Australia by Preschem Pty Ltd. The technology has been patented and is now being exported around the world.
Precautions for use
For use as a wood preservative. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Use synthetic rubber/PVC gloves when handling. The material is non-flammable. Store in the closed original container in a cool, well ventilated position. Keep packages dry. Do not expose boxes to moisture or humidity. Do not store for prolonged periods in direct sunlight. Dispose of packaging at an approved disposal site.
Packaging
Available in rolls of 10m length, 2 rolls per carton. 2 rolls of PVC tape are included with each carton.
Active ingredients specification
| Active Constituents | 124 g/kg Boron (B), 110 g/kg Fluorine (F) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White discs of 15mm diameter x 8mm depth preformed in clear polyethylene sheets lined with reinforced paper. |
| Solubility in Water | Soluble (9.5% at 20° c) |
| PH | 7.6 (at a 10% concentration of material) |
| Odour | Nil |
| Corrosivity | Non Corrosive |
| Compatibility | Compatible with metals and plastic |
| Stability | Stable indefinitely if stored in a cool dry place |
Bioguard Installation
Bioguard bandages have been designed so that application is clean and safe with minimal chemical contact required during installation This compares to the injection of liquids and gels which are messy and awkward to apply. The treatments do not emit vapour and are odourless.
Directions for use
Excavate soil around the pole to a depth of 300mm. Clean any excess soil off the pole. It is not necessary to cut off soft , rotted or decayed timber, this will aid diffusion if left in place on the pole.
Measure the pole circumference at the widest point below groundline. Cut the bioguard to allow 25-50mm overlap. Staple the top and bottom edges of one end of the bandage to the pole so that the top of the bandage is 50mm below true groundline. This will allow for soil stabilisation and will reduce the risk of the public or livestock gaining access to the bandage. Wrap the polyethylene bandage tightly around the pole (it will stretch) and staple the leading top and bottom edge in place. For poles situated in wet areas or poorly drained soil, sealing the bottom edge of the bandage with PVC tape is recommended.
Never go around earth wires or underground services with the bandage, simply butt up to these obstructions to ensure that contact always exists between the bandage and the poles surface. Where a pole has sapwood almost down the groundline, as often seen on natural rounds, then it is more effective to fit the bandage underneath the overhang. Do not run it up over an outward step or taper.
Wrap the specified PVC tape tightly around the top edge of the bandage to ensure a good seal and therefore reduce water ingress into the bandage.
Backfill half the soil from around the pole, firmly compacting it without damaging the bandage. Neatly fill the remaining soil also compacting it to ensure the soil is loped away from the pole to allow surface water to drain away. The top of the black sealing tape should be just visible above the groundline after settlement of the soil.
Precautions for use
For use as a wood preservative. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Use synthetic rubber/PVC gloves when handling. The material is non-flammable. Store in the closed original container in a cool, well ventilated position. Keep packages dry. Do not expose boxes to moisture or humidity. Do not store for prolonged periods in direct sunlight. Dispose of packaging at an approved disposal site.
