Wood is one of the materials most widely used by humans due to its innumerable qualities, but it is also susceptible to biodeterioration, a term that designates undesirable alterations caused directly or indirectly by live organisms. Among the groups of organisms that can damage wood, the main ones are xylophages, such as fungi, termites and wood beetles.
The method IPT uses to evaluate problems of biodeterioration in historic buildings and other constructions, art objects and urban trees is divided into three phases:
Diagnosis: biological health inspection of each wood component, art object or tree, using nondestructive techniques; mapping and quantification of this biodeterioration; and identification of the wood-eating organisms.
Treatment: use of products that are less toxic to humans and to the environment and new technologies for controlling infestations; project improvements and suggestions for construction details in buildings to prevent biodeterioration.
Monitoring: periodic evaluation of the activity of xylophagous organisms and setting up of procedures for remedial and preventive maintenance.
Underground termites and the city
Because subterranean termites are considered a pest associated with humans (synanthropic), a systemic approach must be used to solve problems involving trees and buildings in parks, neighborhoods or even cities.
Based on this approach, IPT offers services and develops research to evaluate the distribution of termites, enabling the discussion of an integrated control, within the sphere of construction practices, of local characteristics and urban environmental management. This analysis can underpin guidelines for urban tree planting, urban construction and wood preservation for local governments and organizations connected to land use, which contribute to their incorporation in integrated urban management systems and the development of specific legislation.
The method IPT uses to evaluate problems of biodeterioration in historic buildings and other constructions, art objects and urban trees is divided into three phases:
Diagnosis: biological health inspection of each wood component, art object or tree, using nondestructive techniques; mapping and quantification of this biodeterioration; and identification of the wood-eating organisms.
Treatment: use of products that are less toxic to humans and to the environment and new technologies for controlling infestations; project improvements and suggestions for construction details in buildings to prevent biodeterioration.
Monitoring: periodic evaluation of the activity of xylophagous organisms and setting up of procedures for remedial and preventive maintenance.
Underground termites and the city
Because subterranean termites are considered a pest associated with humans (synanthropic), a systemic approach must be used to solve problems involving trees and buildings in parks, neighborhoods or even cities.
Based on this approach, IPT offers services and develops research to evaluate the distribution of termites, enabling the discussion of an integrated control, within the sphere of construction practices, of local characteristics and urban environmental management. This analysis can underpin guidelines for urban tree planting, urban construction and wood preservation for local governments and organizations connected to land use, which contribute to their incorporation in integrated urban management systems and the development of specific legislation.
