Surface Mold Prevention with Chlorothalonil/ Disodium Octaborate Tetrahydrate Systems

By Joseph W. Burley

A laboratory study has confirmed the merit of topically ap­plied chlorothalonil and chlorothalonil/disodium octaborate tetrahydrate combination systems for the prevention of fungal growth on wood ( and gypsum drywall) substrates. This article de­scribes the extension of this work to a field study performed on construction lumber under harsh climatic conditions (southern Florida), highly favorable to mold growth.

This more realistic study also confirmed the effectiveness of chlorothalonil-based sys­tems in prevention of surface infestation by mold fungi. The prac­tical application of these systems for mold prevention in new home construction is discussed.