EN 20-2, Wood preservatives - Determination of the protective effectiveness against Lyctus brunneus Stephens - Part 2: Application by impregnation Laboratory method EN 46-1, Wood preser
Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 1001-2:2005 and the following apply
3.1.1 active ingredient(s) a.i individual chemical compound or compounds included in a wood preservative to give it specific activity against biological agents of deterioration
3.1.2 analytical zone a.z part of the treated wood which is analysed for assessing the retention requirement (r.r.)
The analytical zone for wood analysis is derived from the lateral surfaces of the treated wood, with the required sampling depth varying based on the wood species and the level of treatment applied.
The biological reference value (B.R.V) is defined as the effective amount of a wood preservative, measured in grams per square meter or kilograms per cubic meter, that successfully prevents attacks from specific biological agents during testing.
The critical value (c.v.) is defined as the maximum biological resistance value (b.r.v.) measured in grams per square meter or kilograms per cubic meter, derived from all biological tests conducted in accordance with this section of EN 599 for a specific use class.
3.1.5 co-formulant any ingredient (other than an active ingredient) in a formulated wood preservative product
The manufacturer's recommended loading amount of the product in the test specimen corresponds to the mean loading deemed necessary and achievable in practical applications within the analytical zones.
3.1.7 maximum application limit m.a.l maximum amount in grams per square metre or kilograms per cubic metre of the product permitted for application to the wood specimens in a particular biological test
3.1.8 mid-toxic value m.t.v arithmetic mean of the upper and lower toxic values as defined in the relevant European Standard biological test
3.1.9 nominal effective retention n.e.r retention of test product calculated to give the efficacy specified in ENV 807 equivalent to the relevant target retention of the reference preservative
3.1.10 penetrating treatment process process which includes features or procedures intended to overcome the natural resistance of wood to penetration by a wood preservative in its ready for use form
NOTE Such processes include, for example, currently practised technologies of diffusion treatments, double-vacuum and the vacuum/pressure process
3.1.11 product formulated wood preservative in the form as supplied for sale by the manufacturer
3.1.12 retention requirement r.r loading of product that is required in the analytical zone
The retention requirement is specified as grams of product per square meter for superficial application processes and kilograms of product per cubic meter for penetrating treatment processes This requirement is based on critical values that vary according to the specific test conducted.
The superficial application process refers to a method that lacks specific features or procedures designed to address the inherent resistance of wood against the penetration of wood preservatives in their ready-to-use form.
NOTE Such processes include for example brush and spray techniques and short-time immersion (dipping) processes in which wood normally has only a few minutes contact with the preservative
3.1.14 target retention t.r retention of reference preservative deemed to provide an adequate level of protection against biological attack
Wood preservatives are formulations containing active ingredients designed to protect wood and wood-based products from damage caused by wood-destroying or wood-disfiguring organisms, such as fungi, insects, and marine borers These products are marketed in specific forms that leverage the properties of their active ingredients to either prevent infestations or address existing attacks.
Abbreviations and symbols
B Blue stain (see for example Table 2)
F Field test (see for example Table 3a to Table 5)
H Hylotrupes (see for example 5.2.3a) and Table 1)
I All beetles (see for example 5.2.3c) and Table 1 to Table 5)
L Lyctus (see for example 5.2.3a) and Table 1)
3.2.7 m/m Mass/Mass (see for example 5.2.16 and 5.2.27)
N Northern waters (see 5.2.28 and Table 5)
S Southern waters (see 5.2.28 and Table 5)
T Termites (see for example 5.2.7 and Table 1 to Table 5)
V Coriolus versicolor (see Table 3a and Table 3b)
V n nominal mean rating of replicates for non-destructive assessment in EN 330
V e nominal mean rating for external surfaces and those visible within the joint of replicates for destructive assessment in EN 330
V i nominal mean rating for surfaces created by sawing of replicates for destructive assessment in EN 330
R2 TP number of replicates treated with the wood preservative product with a rating of 2 or above in EN 330
R2 R number of replicates treated with the reference preservative with a rating of 2 or above in EN 330
3.2.18 unrP upper nominal retention of the wood preservative product
3.2.19 lnrP lower nominal retention of the wood preservative product
Chemical Abstracts Service registry number
European Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances number
European List of Notified Chemical Substances number
4 Assignment to use class(es)
Each product shall be assigned to one or more use class as described in EN 335-1
Principal requirements
Each product must undergo testing as outlined in Tables 1 to 5, considering factors such as the relevant use class, application method, type of wood, targeted insect species, and whether it will be used solely under a coating.
Wood preservative products listed in Tables 1 to 5 must demonstrate resistance to evaporative aging and/or leaching, necessitating separate testing in accordance with EN 73 and/or EN 84, as outlined in Annex E.
The b.r.v will be determined for each test using the criteria outlined in Tables 1 to 5, ensuring that the application rate does not exceed the specified maximum limit as detailed in Annex G.
In European standard biological tests that determine toxic values, the baseline reference value (b.r.v.) is typically the mid toxic value (m.t.v.) However, exceptions apply: for insect tests using EN 47, if mortality at the lower toxic value is below 80%, the upper toxic value is used as the b.r.v In tests with insects under EN 20-2 or EN 49-2, if the number of live larvae or emerged beetles at the lower toxic value exceeds 20% of the solvent control, the upper toxic value becomes the b.r.v Additionally, in EN 113 tests, if the mean mass loss at the lower toxic value exceeds 10% (m/m), the upper toxic value is also used as the b.r.v.
Additional requirements in Table 1 to Table 5
In cases where local conditions necessitate enhanced biological efficacy of wood preservative products, or to validate manufacturers' claims and meet specifier requirements, it is essential that the product undergoes testing as outlined in the relevant additional or local tests specified in Tables 1 to 5.
NOTE 1 Field tests which vary in form or geographical location from the procedures prescribed in EN 252, EN 275 and
EN 330 may provide relevant supplementary data for confirming retention requirements in EN 351 which are derived from critical values according to EN 599
The application process outlined in the relevant EN methods for biological testing must be utilized, even if it does not exactly match the intended process for the test product in practice.
Wood preservative products classified under use class 1 must effectively combat specific wood-boring beetles as outlined in EN 599 In this use class, there is no risk of fungal attack.
Tests of the product shall be carried out against one of the following:
EN 599-1:2009+A1:2013 (E) a) unless b) or c) is applicable and is selected, all or each relevant individual beetle(s) “Hylotrupes bajulus
The classification of beetle species in relation to insecticide effectiveness can be categorized into three criteria: a) specific species such as Anobium punctatum (A) and Lyctus brunneus (L); b) the most tolerant beetle species, where the mid toxic value of the least tolerant species is less than 80% of that of the most tolerant species; and c) a scenario where insecticides show similar activity across all species, indicated by the mid toxic value of the least tolerant species being equal to or greater than 80% of the most tolerant species.
5.2.4 Additional tests need only be conducted when necessary to meet or confirm local or regional requirements, the stated requirements of specifiers or the specific claims of manufacturers (see 5.2.1)
5.2.5 The product shall be tested according to EN 46-2 if a repellent or ovicidal activity is claimed
Leaching according to EN 84 is not necessary for products classified under use classes 1 and 2, provided they are safeguarded against extended exposure to rain or temporary wet conditions during transport and installation However, if such protection is not feasible, products in these use classes must be applied using methods that limit lateral penetrations to no more than 3 mm and should undergo leaching tests in accordance with EN 84.
Leaching as defined by EN 84 is incompatible with EN 20-1 and EN 20-2 Consequently, the biological resistance value (b.r.v.) against Lyctus brunneus (L) in areas with a leaching risk is considered equivalent to that for other specified standards.
Anobium punctatum (A) after leaching; whichever is the greater
To qualify for the anti-termite designation "T," a superficial application product must be tested in its ready-to-use form It should meet the criteria outlined in EN 46 or the relevant beetle test to establish a biological reference value Additionally, when applied at a rate of 200 g/m², the product must comply with EN 118:2005 and meet the efficacy criteria specified for termites in EN 599.
The European Standard EN 118:2005 fails to adequately test all modes of action of currently available preservative products While awaiting a revised version of EN 118 or a new European test standard that offers more realistic efficacy results against termites, alternative evaluation methods may be utilized to provide the necessary baseline reference values (b.r.v.).
The use of EN 20-2 is not permitted for water-dispersed or water-soluble wood preservative products, as the method's scope excludes these types.
When determining the mid toxic value, if the mortality rate at the lower toxic value in EN 47 is below 80%, the upper toxic value should be utilized as the baseline reference value (b.r.v.) Additionally, in EN 20-2 and EN 49-2, if the count of live larvae or emerged beetles at the lower toxic value surpasses 20% of the number observed in the solvent controls, the upper toxic value must also be adopted as the b.r.v.
The retention levels in laboratory tests must not surpass the manufacturer's recommended loading, and this can be achieved through complete impregnation with a diluted solution of the product.
In industrial applications, the retention of penetrating treatment products in treated sapwood varies significantly For instance, high-pressure systems, such as vacuum-pressure methods, typically achieve mean retentions of approximately 600 kg/m³ in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) sapwood Conversely, low and non-pressure systems, like double-vacuum and prolonged immersion techniques, generally do not exceed mean retentions of 300 kg/m³.
5.2.11 EN 113 tests shall be used as the specified test against basidiomycetes for products intended for use in use class 2 applied by superficial application
CEN/TS 839 is not mandatory for use class 2; however, products tested under CEN/TS 839 for use class 3 (uncoated) can be utilized in use class 2 without additional testing per EN 113 In such cases, the biological resistance value (b.r.v.) for protection against basidiomycetes in use class 2 can be established from CEN/TS 839, along with aging assessments according to EN 73, and relevant criteria from EN 84 as outlined in section 5.2.6.
5.2.13 EN 113 tests with Coriolus versicolor are not required for products intended only for use class 2
Products classified under use class 2, designed to combat fungi responsible for blue stain during service, must undergo testing as per EN 152 This testing should occur following aging procedures outlined in EN 73 or after exposure to natural or artificial weathering as specified in EN 152.
To determine the critical value, the biological reference value in grams per square meter is considered equivalent to twice the biological reference value set in kilograms per cubic meter.
Use class 1
Wood preservative products designed for superficial or penetrating applications in use class 1 must demonstrate efficacy as outlined in Table 1 This includes effectiveness against specific beetle species for which activity is claimed, or, in cases where insecticides show varying effectiveness against different beetles, against the most tolerant beetle species for that insecticide.
The EN 599-1:2009+A1:2013 (E) standard applies to products containing insecticides, provided there is existing test data confirming their effectiveness against specific beetle species Notably, Hylotrupes bajulus serves as a representative species for these evaluations, ensuring that the insecticide's activity is consistent across various individual beetles, as outlined in requirement 5.2.3 c).
Tests following leaching as per EN 84 are only necessary if there is uncertainty about the effectiveness of protection against prolonged exposure to rain or other temporary wetting during transport and installation; in such cases, requirement 5.2.6 must be adhered to.
Use class 2
Wood preservative products intended for use by superficial or penetrating application processes in use class 2 shall demonstrate efficacy in accordance with Table 2 against wood destroying basidiomycetes, excluding
Coriolus versicolor, after ageing in accordance with EN 73
CEN/TS 839 is not mandatory for use class 2; however, products tested under CEN/TS 839 for use class 3 (uncoated) can also be utilized in use class 2 without additional testing per EN 113 In such instances, the b.r.v for protection against basidiomycetes in use class 2 can be established from CEN/TS 839, along with ageing as per EN 73, following the criteria outlined in section 5.2.19.
All products claiming insecticidal activity must prove their effectiveness against the relevant biological agents by utilizing the appropriate tests specified for use class 1.
Tests following leaching as per EN 84 are only necessary if there is uncertainty about the effectiveness of protection against prolonged exposure to rain or other temporary wetting during transport and installation; in such cases, requirement 5.2.6 must be adhered to.
To claim additional biological efficacy against fungi responsible for blue stain in service, the product must demonstrate effectiveness according to EN 152, Table 2, following ageing as per EN 73 or after undergoing natural or artificial weathering as specified in EN 152.
For products claiming enhanced biological efficacy against beetles or fungi, it is essential to demonstrate effectiveness through the relevant insect tests outlined in Table 1, following evaporative aging as per EN 73 standards.
Use class 3
Wood preservative products intended for use classes 3.1 and 3.2 in accordance with EN 335-1 shall demonstrate efficacy in accordance with Table 3a for superficial applications or Table 3b for penetrating processes
Wood preservative products designed for superficial applications in use class 3 must show effectiveness against wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi, as outlined in Table 3a, following the standards of CEN/TS 839, EN 73, and EN 84, without additional coating protection.
Coriolus versicolor, unless requirement 5.2.19 applies
Wood preservative products designed for penetrating applications in use class 3 must show effectiveness against wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi, as outlined in Table 3b, following the standards of EN 113 after EN 73 and EN 84, excluding Coriolus versicolor, unless specified by requirement 5.2.19.
Wood preservative products designed for penetrating applications in use class 3 must demonstrate efficacy against wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi, as outlined in Table 3b This can be achieved through two options: either by testing in accordance with EN 113 after EN 73 and EN 84, excluding Coriolus versicolor unless requirement 5.2.19 applies, or by testing in accordance with EN 113 after EN 73 only, also excluding Coriolus versicolor unless requirement 5.2.19 applies Additionally, the product must meet the specified efficacy criteria.
Table 3 for EN 330 after the untreated control has reached a median rating of 3;
Wood preservative products designed for superficial application in use class 3 must show efficacy against specific criteria outlined in Table 3a These products are intended to be used with a paint or protective coating that prevents leaching of the preservative Efficacy must be demonstrated against either option a) or b), or against wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi as per CEN/TS 839, following EN 73 and EN 84, excluding Coriolus versicolor unless requirement 5.2.19 is applicable.
Products tested in accordance with EN 113, following EN 73 and EN 330, must include a statement indicating that components treated with the product should be shielded from weather exposure until the top coating is fully applied.
Products tested under EN 113 or CEN/TS 839, following EN 73 and EN 84, must include the statement: Components treated with this product should receive a top coating as soon as feasible after manufacturing; however, no special weather protection is necessary in the interim.
Products claiming insecticidal activity must demonstrate efficacy against relevant biological agents through the appropriate tests outlined in Table 1 for use class 1 Additionally, a separate EN 84 leaching test is required unless the product is designed for use under a coating, as specified in requirement 5.2.6.
To claim additional biological efficacy against Coriolus versicolor in field tests or laboratory tests, or against fungi causing blue stain, the product must demonstrate efficacy in compliance with EN 330, EN 113 (including Coriolus versicolor), CEN/TS 839 (including Coriolus versicolor), and/or EN 152 This is detailed in Table 3a for superficial applications and Table 3b for penetrating processes.
Use class 4
Wood preservative products for use classes 4.1 and 4.2 must prove their effectiveness against wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi, including Coriolus versicolor in beech and Scots pine, as per EN 113, EN 73, and EN 84 standards Additionally, they should demonstrate efficacy against soft rotting micro-fungi in accordance with ENV 807.
If the b.r.v obtained from additional tests following EN 252 is lower than any b.r.v from ENV 807, the EN 252 result can be prioritized for determining the critical value of the test preservative, provided there is evidence of active soft rot in the stakes treated with the lower retention of the reference preservative during evaluation It is essential to confirm that the decay observed in the reference stakes is not due to basidiomycete fungi However, the b.r.v from EN 252 cannot take precedence over a higher value obtained from other tests.
Products claiming insecticidal activity must demonstrate efficacy against relevant biological agents through the appropriate tests for use class 1, as well as pass a separate EN 84 leaching test.
To claim additional biological efficacy in field tests against fungi causing blue stain, the product must demonstrate effectiveness as per the testing requirements outlined in EN 252 or EN 152, as specified in Table 4.
Use class 5
Wood preservative products classified for use class 5 must prove their effectiveness against specific threats as outlined in Table 5 This includes resistance to wood-destroying basidiomycete fungi, tested according to EN 113 after EN 73 and EN 84, specifically targeting Coriolus versicolor in beech and/or Scots pine Additionally, these products must demonstrate efficacy against soft rotting micro-fungi as per ENV 807 and marine organisms in accordance with EN 275, following a minimum exposure period of five years.
If the b.r.v obtained from tests following EN 275 is lower than the b.r.v derived from ENV 807, the b.r.v from EN 275 should be prioritized when determining the critical value for the test preservative.
Products claiming insecticidal activity must demonstrate efficacy against relevant biological agents through the appropriate tests specified for use class 1, as well as pass a separate EN 84 leaching test.
To claim additional biological efficacy against fungi responsible for blue stain in service, the product must demonstrate effectiveness in compliance with the specified testing requirements.
The biological reference value is derived from the results of each specific biological test and shall be equal to or lower than the maximum application limit
The critical value represents the maximum biological reference value derived from tests specified for a particular use class in this European Standard When a product has additional claims, the biological reference values from any pertinent tests must also be considered in establishing the critical value.
The critical value for products to be applied by superficial application processes shall be expressed as grams per square metre
The critical value for products to be applied by penetrating treatment processes shall be expressed as kilograms per cubic metre
Critical values derived from dated European Standards methods of test which are subsequently revised shall remain valid unless the revised standard method states to the contrary (see Annex H)
Product variants that adhere to a specific formulation and meet the criteria outlined in Tables 1 to 5 of EN 599 can have critical values declared without the need for new biological testing, or with minimal or full new biological testing as specified in Annex A.
Information on the biological efficacy of the preservative product in relation to the use classes intended by the producer shall be provided in accompanying documentation in accordance with EN 599-2
Type testing
A product sample will be tested according to the minimum methods required for each use class, along with any additional tests necessary for the claimed protection.
Producers of wood preservative products must retain test reports and a copy of the product identity declaration for as long as the product is available in the market, and for five years following its withdrawal from the market.
Identity of the preservative product
A written declaration must accompany the sample of the preservative product, detailing its identity This declaration should include the name or designation of the product, its composition with chemical designations, CAS, EINECS, or ELINCS numbers, and the trade or common names of active ingredients Additionally, it should provide a generic description of co-formulants, such as co-solvents or resins, along with the mass percentage of each ingredient, ensuring that the total equals 100% Safety information must also be included.
Suppliers may disclose ingredients under a confidentiality agreement, allowing non-active components to be reported generically in test reports Additionally, the analysis results of the submitted sample must include active ingredients, and if conducted under a quality system, this should be clearly stated in the declaration.
NOTE Analyses should be carried out preferably under a quality system such as EN ISO/IEC 17025
The declaration shall be signed by the supplier or his authorized representative
Table 1 — Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 1 class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application (5.2.2)
Requirements Minimum requirements for beetle spp tests (5.2.3) Additional Test
(A) Lyctus brunneus (L) for all beetle spp (I) Termites (T)
Superficial application Test EN 46–1 or EN 46–2 (5.2.6)
EN 49–1 EN 20–1 EN 46–1 or EN 46–2 or (A) or (L) (see 5.2.3 b + 5.2.3 c and 5.2.5)
EN 73 (5.2.6) Maximum application limit in test 200 g/m 2
(dip or pip.) (5.2.7) Criterion for biological reference value EN 46–1 100 % mortality at end of test,
The EN 46–2 test demonstrated 100% repellence, with no eggs deposited on treated specimens, despite confirming the fertility of the beetles Additionally, it resulted in 100% total mortality, as there were no live larvae or emerged beetles at the end of the test Similarly, the EN 46–1 test showed 100% mortality by the conclusion of the evaluation Notably, there was no damage rated above 2, with only one sample exhibiting such a rating.
The maximum application limit for Scots pine sapwood is specified in EN 73 (5.2.6) and is referenced multiple times in section 5.2.10 Additionally, the biological reference value criterion is outlined as m.t.v in section 5.2.3, which emphasizes that no damage should exceed a rating of 2, with only one sample allowed for assessment.
Table 2 — Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 2 class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application
Requirement Minimum requirements for fungal test Additional / local tests (5.2.4)
Basidiomycetes (5.2.2) Blue stain (B) Beetle spp (5.2.3) (I) Termites (T)
(not C versicolor) (5.2.13) EN 152 If required add from use class 1 If required add from use class 1 Ageing in accordance with EN 73 (5.2.6) In accordance with EN 73
Maximum application limit in test 100 kg/m 3
Criterion for biological reference value m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) at end of test no individual rating ≥ 2; min stain-free zone 1,0 mm, mean ≥ 1,5 mm
Penetrating process Test EN 113 (not C versicolor) (5.2.13) EN 152 If required add from use class 1 If required add from use class 1
Ageing in accordance with EN 73 (5.2.6) in accordance with EN 73 (5.2.14)
Maximum application limit in test m.r.l for Scots pine (5.2.10) as specified by manufacturer for commercial use
Criterion for biological reference value m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) at end of test no individual rating ≥ 2; min stain-free zone 1,0 mm, mean ≥ 1,5 mm
Table 3a — Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 3 (superficial application) class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application
Minimum requirements for fungal test of preservatives for use Additional / local tests (5.2.4) with or without coatings only under coatings Field test
Option 1 (5.2.17) Option 2 (5.2.18) Option 3 (5.2.18) Basidiomycetes Basidiomycetes Basidiomycetes Field tests
EN 330 EN 330 CEN/TS 839 or
EN 113 (in Scots pine sapwood and / or beech) (5.2.19)
EN 152 If required add from class 1+ use
If required add from use class 1 + EN 84
Ageing in accordance with EN 73 and
EN 84 separately (5.2.17) in accordance with EN 73 and
EN 84 separately (5.2.18) in accordance with EN 73 (5.2.18) no additional ageing according to laboratory methods no additional ageing according to laboratory methods in accordance with EN 73 and
EN 84 separately (5.2.17) as given in
Maximum application limit in test
The superficial application criterion for biological reference value defines the minimum level at which no more than one test specimen exhibits visible internal decay, and only one specimen shows surface decay with a mass loss between 3.0% and 5.0% (m/m), regardless of the number of valid replicates.
(5.2.20) m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) after the untreated control specimens have reached a median rating of ≥ 3:
V n , V e and V I equal or better than for reference and R2 TP equal or less than R2 R (5.2.21) after the untreated control specimens have reached a median rating of ≥ 3:
V n , V e and V I equal or better than for reference and R2 TP equal or less than R2 R (5.2.21) for EN 113: m.t.v (5.2.16)
CEN/TS 839 establishes the lowest application level where no more than one test specimen exhibits visible internal decay, and only one specimen shows surface decay with a mass loss between 3.0% and 5.0% (m/m) This assessment is independent of the number of valid replicates, ensuring that at the end of the test, no individual rating is greater than or equal to 2 Additionally, a minimum stain-free zone of 1.0 mm is required, with a mean of at least 1.5 mm.
Table 3b— Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 3 (penetrating processes) class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application
Minimum requirements for fungal test of preservatives for use Additional / local tests (5.2.4) with or without coatings only under coatings
Field test (F) Coriolus versicolor (V) Blue stain (B)
Penetrating process Test EN 113 (not C versicolor)
EN 330 EN 330 EN 113 (in Scots pine sapwood and / or beech) (5.2.19)
EN 152 If required add from class 1 use + EN 84
If required add from use class
Ageing in accordance with EN 73 and
EN 84 separately (5.2.22) in accordance with EN 73 (5.2.23) no additional ageing according to laboratory methods no additional ageing according to laboratory methods in accordance with EN 73 and
EN 84 separately (5.2.22, 5.2.23) as given in
Maximum application limit in test m.r.l for Scots pine sapwood (5.2.10) m.r.l for Scots pine sapwood (5.2.10) m.r.l m.r.l m.r.l for Scots pine sapwood or beech (5.2.10;
5.2.19) as specified by manufacturer for commercial use
Criterion for biological reference value m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) m.t.v most tolerant fungus (5.2.16) after the untreated control specimens have reached a median rating of ≥ 3: V n , V e and V I equal or better than for reference and
R2 TP equal or less than R2 R (5.2.21) after the untreated control specimens have reached a median rating of ≥ 3:
V n , V e and V I equal or better than for reference and R2 TP equal or less than
R2 R (5.2.21) m.t.v.(5.2.15) at end of test no individual rating ≥ 2; min stain-free zone 1,0 mm, mean ≥ 1,5 mm
Table 4 — Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 4 class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application
Minimum requirements for fungal tests Additional / local tests (5.2.4
Basidiomycetes Soft rot Field test (F) Blue stain (B) Beetle spp (I)
Superficial application processes not suitable for use class 4
Ageing Maximum application limit in test Criterion for biological reference value
C versicolor in beech and / or Scots pine sapwood) (5.2.24)
If required add from use class 3
If required add from use class 1 + EN 84
If required add from use class 1 + EN 84
Ageing in accordance with EN 73 and EN 84 separately as given in ENV 807 none Maximum application limit in test m.r.l for Scots pine sapwood (5.2.10) m.r.l m.r.l
Criterion for biological reference value m.t.v most tolerant fungus
(including C versicolor) (5.2.16) n.e.r acc to Clause 10 and Annex E of ENV 807
(5.2.26) after 5 years mean of unrP/0,75 and lnrP/0,17 (5.2.27)
Table 5 — Efficacy criteria in biological tests for use class 5 class Use mark
Proposed type of commercial application
Minimum requirements for fungal tests Additional / local tests (5.2.4)
Basidiomycetes Soft rot Field test (F) FN and / or FS (5.2.28) Blue stain (B) Beetle spp (I)
Superficial application processes not suitable for use class 5
Ageing Maximum application limit in test Criterion for biological reference value Penetrating process Test EN 113 (including
C versicolor in beech and / or Scots pine sapwood) (5.2.24)
If required add from use class 3
If required add from use class 1 + EN 84
If required add from use class 1+ EN 84
Ageing in accordance with EN 73 and EN 84 separately as given in ENV 807 none Maximum application limit in test m.r.l for Scots pine sapwood (5.2.10) m.r.l m.r.l
Criterion for biological reference value m.t.v most tolerant fungus
(including C versicolor) (5.2.16) n.e.r acc to Clause 10 and Annex E of ENV 807
(5.2.26) after 5 years mean of unrP/0,75 and lnrP/0,17 (5.2.27, 5.2.28)
Guidance on re-testing after making variations in product formulation
Introduction
Manufacturers may need to alter product formulations due to ingredient availability or to enhance physical properties Additionally, they might aim to create a variety of preservatives from a single formulation that meets the test data requirements outlined in Tables 1 to 5 of EN 599, while varying physical characteristics such as water repellency and color.
This annex outlines the appropriate extent of re-testing required when a product formulation deviates from the original 'type-product' for which comprehensive data is available per EN 599 It categorizes formulation variations into three levels: a) no new biological testing required, b) minimal new biological testing needed, and c) full new biological testing mandated.
No requirements for new biological testing
Products that exhibit any variations listed in sections A.2.2 or A.2.3 of a 'type-product' for which existing test data compliant with EN 599 requirements is available are deemed exempt from the necessity of new biological testing.
In the case of organic solvent-based products that are ready for use, no new biological testing is required for several specific changes These include substituting a co-formulant with a chemically equivalent one from a different supplier, applying products through penetrating treatment processes with hydrocarbon solvent carriers that have an aromatic content change of less than 10% (v/v) and distill below 250 °C, and superficial application processes with similar aromatic content limits Additionally, changes involving the addition or removal of a soluble dyestuff, adjustments in pigment content to equal or lower levels, and relative changes in solids content of up to ± 20% (m/m) for products with 10% or less solids, or ± 10% (m/m) for those with more than 10% solids, are permissible Furthermore, up to 5% of the hydrocarbon solvent can be replaced by a miscible co-solvent that meets the specified distilling range.
EN 599-1:2009+A1:2013 (E) h) replacing a co-formulant providing the additive constitutes less than 2 % of the total formulation and providing the physical properties are not affected (A.2.5)
Water-soluble preservatives do not require new biological testing for several specific changes: a) substituting a co-formulant with a chemically equivalent one from a different supplier; b) adding or removing a soluble dyestuff; c) for products with 10% or less solids, relative changes in resin and/or water repellent content of ± 20% are acceptable, while for products with more than 10% solids, changes of ± 10% are permitted; d) modifications in inorganic active ingredients that do not alter the ratio, total content, or nature of active chemical elements; e) adjustments in pigments to maintain equal or lower pigment content; f) the addition or change of a water miscible co-solvent (within the specified distillation range) up to 5% of the total formulation; and g) adding or replacing a co-formulant that constitutes less than 2% of the total formulation, provided that the physical properties remain unaffected.
In the case of emulsion products, no new biological testing is necessary for specific changes: substituting a co-formulant with a chemically equivalent one from a different supplier, replacing or adding a co-solvent up to 5% of the total formulation without altering physical stability, and adding or replacing a co-formulant as long as the additive is less than 2% of the total formulation and does not affect physical properties.
It is essential to verify that the penetration into wood remains unaffected, the stability of the product is preserved, and chemical analysis confirms that these changes do not alter the active ingredient content after storage at 40 °C for 28 days.
Requirement for minimum new biological testing
Products that exhibit any variations listed in A.3.2 from a 'type-product' with existing test data as per Tables 1 to 5 of EN 599 are deemed to require only re-testing based on the test that previously yielded the highest b.r.v for the original type-product.
According to EN 113, the testing should be repeated solely with the fungus that produced the highest mean time value (m.t.v.) for the original product in Scots pine sapwood Similarly, for ENV 807, only the wood type combination that yielded the highest biological resistance value (b.r.v.) for the original product needs to be retested.
In every case, where minimum new biological tests are required, the original type-product should be re-tested simultaneously for comparison
Minimum new biological tests are required for products containing both fungicides and insecticides under specific conditions These include: a) the removal of an insecticide from a product tested against decay fungi or the removal of a fungicide from a product tested against insects, unless data confirm that the removal does not affect the efficacy of the remaining biocides; b) the addition of an active ingredient intended as an insecticide to a product tested against decay fungi, or the addition of an active ingredient against decay fungi to a product tested against insects; c) the substitution of insecticides with another insecticide in products that have been separately tested.
For organic solvent-based and water-soluble products, new biological tests are necessary when incorporating a water-repellent additive into a formulation or when there are changes in the content or nature of co-formulants that are not exempted by sections A.2.2 or A.2.3.
A.3.2.2 In the case of emulsion products, minimum new biological tests are required following: any other changes in the content or nature of co-formulants not exempted by A.2.4 above
According to EN 599-1:2009+A1:2013 (E), re-testing is not necessary for fungicidal efficacy claims against fungi However, re-testing is required for insecticidal efficacy unless data confirms that removing the fungicide does not impact insecticidal effectiveness Conversely, re-testing is needed for fungicidal efficacy against insects unless data shows that removing the insecticide does not affect fungicidal performance If no claims of insecticidal efficacy are made, re-testing for insects is not required.
Key a) original formulation b) derived formulation
In the event of removing fungicides or insecticides from a product, minimum new biological testing is required Specifically, re-testing is not necessary for fungi if there is no data confirming that the fungicidal efficacy of the active ingredient Fa is affected Conversely, re-testing is required for insects, as there is no data to confirm that the efficacy of the active ingredient Ia does not impact the fungicidal effectiveness of Fa.
Key a) original formulation b) derived formulation
In cases where fungicides or insecticides are added to a product, minimum new biological testing is required Specifically, re-testing is necessary against fungi, but not against insects, provided that data confirms that fungicide Fa does not enhance the effectiveness of insecticide Ia, and fungicide Fb does not diminish the effectiveness of the insecticide.
Ia against fungi: no providing data exist which confirm that Ia has no strengthening effect on the fungicide Fa and Ib has no weakening effect on the fungicide
Key a) original formulation b) derived formulation
Figure A.3 — Requirement for minimum new biological testing in case of the substitution of fungicides or insecticides from a product
New biological tests can be conducted on unaged test specimens, with the exception of products that either involve a reduction in content or deletion of any co-formulant, or products that undergo changes as outlined in section A.3.2.2.
Testing should be conducted on specimens that are appropriately aged, following the guidelines outlined in Tables 1 to 5 of EN 599 This process must utilize a limited range of concentrations, including those that correspond to the original toxic values of the 'type product.'
In the new biological tests, the reference values of the varied products must be equal to or lower than those of the original product tested concurrently for comparison If this condition is met, the critical value for the varied product is considered the same as that of the original product If not, A.4 applies.
NOTE In the re-test an increase in b.r.v of 10 % of the value for the original product is admissible to accommodate variations in uptake of fluid by the test specimens
It should be confirmed: a) that the penetration into wood is not adversely affected; b) that the stability of the product is not adversely affected;
EN 599-1:2009+A1:2013 (E) c) by chemical analysis, that the above changes do not alter the content of the active ingredient(s) after storage at 40 °C for 8 weeks.
Requirement for full new biological testing
Products that exhibit any variations from a 'type-product' for which test data exists in accordance with Tables 1 to 5 of EN 599 will require comprehensive re-testing This includes any changes in the content of active ingredients that exceed the limits specified in section B.1 (b) of EN 599.
EN 599 outlines specific provisions regarding active ingredients, excluding certain clauses in A.2.3.(d) and A.3.2.(a), (b), and (c) It also addresses changes that demonstrate a reduction in toxicity to relevant test organisms as per the limited biological testing described in A.3, along with all other modifications not specified in sections A.2 or A.3.
Procedure
The manufacturer may exercise a permanent internal control of production using the principles given in
EN ISO 9000 which shall include: a) taking a sample from each batch of production in conjunction with EN 212 which shall be:
1) identified permanently and legibly on a label affixed to the sample container giving the product name and/or code number, the batch number and the date of sampling;
2) representative of the batch from which it was taken;
Samples must be collected by individuals trained in proper sampling procedures, and each sample should be analyzed for its active ingredient(s) The actual percentage of each active ingredient may differ from the nominal percentage stated in the composition declaration, with a common tolerance of ± 10% employed by manufacturers However, alternative tolerances may apply based on the specific active ingredient, its concentration, and the formulation's composition.
1) quantification of the estimate for a content of active ingredient < 0,1 %;
2) ± 30 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 0,1 % m/m and ≤ 0,5 %;
3) ± 20 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 0,5 % m/m and ≤ 1 %;
4) ± 15 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 1,0 % m/m and ≤ 2,5 %;
5) ± 10,0 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 2,5 % m/m and ≤ 10,0 % m/m;
6) ± 6,0 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 10,0 % m/m and ≤ 25,0 % m/m;
7) ± 5,0 % relative to the nominal for a content of active ingredient > 25,0 % m/m and ≤ 50,0 % m/m;
The active ingredient content must be maintained within ± 2.5% of the nominal value when it exceeds 50.0% m/m and is at or below 100.0% m/m Additionally, it is essential to verify every five to seven months that the other ingredients in the preservative product align with the declared composition.
1) other ingredients of the preservative product may vary by up to 10 % relative to the nominal percentage declared on the declaration of composition
Records
The manufacturer is required to maintain production control records, which must include the unique name or code number of the preservative product as stated in the declaration of composition, the date of sampling, the applied test methods, the test results, the date of tests, and the name of the quality responsible individual.
The effectiveness of wood preservative products is influenced by the application method employed These products are specifically formulated for various application processes, and testing methods must consider this to accurately assess their efficacy and suitability.
EN 599 in general take into account the method of application likely to be used in practice and specifically how the preservative is to be applied for testing purposes
The methods of application for wood preservative products are diverse, and the European Standard biological laboratory tests do not cover all of them in detail According to EN 599, these products are categorized based on their intended use, specifically distinguishing between those meant for superficial application, penetrating treatment, or both application types.
The classification of the wood preservative product indicates whether its use is restricted to softwoods only (see EN 599-2)
Softwood and hardwood timber species respond distinctly to various biological attacks, influencing their susceptibility Additionally, the effectiveness of wood preservative products differs in terms of penetration and distribution between softwoods and hardwoods.
Products may show reduced effectiveness against wood-attacking fungi in hardwoods compared to softwoods To ensure efficacy in hardwoods, it is essential to obtain test data specifically from hardwood species, such as beech.
Artificial ageing procedures are essential before conducting biological tests to verify the effectiveness of wood preservative products against evaporation, water leaching, and weather exposure, including sunlight Currently, there are no European Standard testing methods specifically designed to address weathering hazards.
EN 152 specifies a period of natural weathering prior to biological testing, or, alternatively, artificial weathering by UV light.
Artificial ageing processes are outlined in the testing and efficacy standards, as exposure to leaching and evaporative ageing is anticipated to be a common and unavoidable aspect of service conditions for specific use classes.
Exposure to rain in use classes 1 and 2 can be significant, but it typically occurs due to temporary or accidental circumstances Currently, there is no established European standard procedure that addresses this specific type of exposure.
Certain wood preservative products used in use class 3 can be safeguarded from leaching by applying paints, coatings, or other systems prior to exposing the treated wood to moisture For these products, compliance with EN 84 regarding leaching resistance is not required, and testing according to this standard is not mandatory.
EN 330 and EN 113 after EN 73 may be conducted and the relevant efficacy requirements complied with
If tests following both EN 73 and EN 84 procedures are required, they are carried out individually and on separate sets of treated specimens before the respective individual biological tests
Significance of specific biological agents
The risk of biological agent attacks varies based on service conditions outlined in EN 335-1, influenced by factors such as environmental conditions, geographical location, and timber species The prevalence of beetle species can differ significantly, with some being rare yet damaging, while others are common but less harmful Termites, although limited to specific European regions, can cause significant damage in areas where they are present.
Damage in the marine environment varies considerably from northern to Mediterranean waters mainly because of variations in the incidence of the particular species of borers which occur
Fungi that lead to blue stain in service can have significant practical and economic implications for specific commodities where appearance is crucial However, they may not impact other commodities within the same use class.
The importance of specific biological agents differs, and wood preservative products do not need to be effective against all potential agents in a given use class unless explicitly stated or required In fact, broad-spectrum activity can be counterproductive if it leads to the excessive use of biocides beyond what is necessary for the intended purpose.
In accordance with EN 599, the minimum efficacy of wood preservative products is defined by their biological reference value (b.r.v.) in various biological tests This b.r.v is either equivalent to or derived from the toxic values or efficacy criteria outlined in specific European standard testing methods The criteria for determining the b.r.v for each product are unique to each biological test and are detailed in Tables 1 to 5.
The critical value (c.v.) represents the highest biological test b.r.v recorded for the preservative According to EN 351-1, the c.v is essential for determining the retention requirement, which specifies the necessary amount of the product that must be present in the analytical zone of treated timber.
Validity of test results from former standards after their revision
Products that have demonstrated successful use in practice for a minimum of 10 years are exempt from limitations on the validity of test results following the revision of previous European Standards The applicant must provide evidence of this successful use.