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Publications

NIBIOs employees contribute to several hundred scientific articles and research reports every year. You can browse or search in our collection which contains references and links to these publications as well as other research and dissemination activities. The collection is continously updated with new and historical material.

2025

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Abstract

Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) sapwood was modified using maleic anhydride (MA) and sodium hypophosphite (SHP) to improve its durability against wood-deteriorating fungi, mechanical strength, and fire retardancy (thermal stability). The modification significantly reduced mass loss caused by wood-decaying fungi (Trametes versicolor, Rhodonia placenta, and soft rot fungi) due to the formation of cross-links between wood, MA, and SHP, which limited the moisture uptake and altered the chemical structure of wood. On the other hand, the modification did not provide improved resistance to fungi growth on the wood surface, which indicated that the modification had little impact on the accessibility of nutrients on the surface. A bending test showed that the modulus of elasticity (MOE) was not affected by the treatment, whilst the modulus of rupture (MOR) decreased to half the value of untreated wood. Thermal resistance was improved, as demonstrated by micro-scale combustion calorimeter testing, where the total heat release was halved, and the residue percentage nearly doubled. These results indicate that phosphonate protects the modified wood via the formation of a protective char layer on the surface and the formation of radical moieties. Based on the results, wood modified with MA and SHP shows potential for possible use in outdoor, non-loadbearing structures.

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Abstract

VKM has assessed the environmental and health risks associated with the use of the mite Lepidoglyphus destructor as feed. Background Anso-Mite Plus consists of the biological control agent Amblyseius andersoni and the feed organisms Carpoglyphus lactis and Lepidoglyphus destructor. Amblyseius andersoni and C. lactis have previously been assessed by VKM. VKM has now assessed the environmental and health risks of L. destructor. Conclusions Lepidoglyphus destructor has been found in homes, agricultural environments, and stored products in Norway. The species is well established in Norway, and introduced individuals are expected to be able to establish and spread. Lepidoglyphus destructor is widespread and common in Norway, and it seems unlikely that further introductions via Anso-Mite Plus will have any additional effects on biodiversity. Several studies report allergies to mites, including to L. destructor. The likelihood of developing mite allergies after handling the product is therefore high. However, the likelihood of allergic reactions after consuming plants treated with the product appears to be low. Lepidoglyphus is not a species-rich genus, and there is no documentation suggesting that L. destructor can be confused with other species. The risk assessment is approved by VKM's Panel on Plant Health.