Wood biodegradation poses a significant obstacle to its utilisation as a raw material, driving the search for more effective and sustainable preservatives. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of natural extractives obtained from the wood and bark of tropical species such as Bagassa guianensis (tatajuba), Carapa guianensis (andiroba), Cedrelinga catenaeformis (cedrorana), and Dipteryx odorata (cumaru) in protecting Simarouba amara (marupá) wood against termite attacks by the genus Nasutitermes. Biological tests demonstrated that extractives from these species resulted in a significant reduction in the degradation of S. amara wood. The mass loss ranged from 0.40% (extractives from C. guianensis wood) to 22% (extractives from C. catenaeformis wood), with extracts from C. guianensis and D. odorata being the most effective. Comparatively, the natural extracts presented similar efficacy to the chemical preservative CCA (composed of chromium, copper, and arsenic salts), which resulted in a mass loss of 3.50%. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenolic, terpenoid, and nitrogenous compounds in the extracts, suggesting that these compounds exert toxic and/or repellent effects against termites. These results underscore the potential of natural extracts as an environmentally sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives, especially in tropical regions, where the protection of wood against xylophagous organisms is essential for prolonging its durability. Further studies on the specific mechanisms of action of these compounds against termites will provide valuable insights into their protective properties.

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Enhanced termite resistance of Simarouba amara wood with tropical extractives treatment against Nasutitermes (Isoptera: Termitidae)