Inground Paste 280G   TWA IN-GROUND PASTE is intended for heavy duty protection of timber and timber structures against fungal decay and borers particularly in ground contact. Examples are groundline treatment of poles, exposed endgrains, pile tops, bolt holes, interfaces and joints: any high hazard situations where exposure and dampness could promote decay. IGP does have a significant level of deterrence to certain species of termites although the product is not promoted as a termiticide as such. Users are advised that additional protective measures against termites may be required in some situations.   Mode of Action: TWA IN-GROUND PASTE is formulated as a thick green paste. This allows much more preservative to be applied directly to the timber than can normally be achieved with liquid products. Furthermore as it is formulated with a heavy non volatile oil it forms a long lasting physical and chemical barrier against decay that resists leaching and weathering. On exposure to air the emulsion breaks. The water phase forms a continuous film at the external surface whilst the oil phase is released from the emulsion. Any residual oil not immediately absorbed into the timber is trapped between the film and the timber. Depending on the condition of the timber absorption of oil phase containing the copper naphthenate continues for approximately two weeks out of ground contact and for approximately three months in ground contact.   Compatibility & Properties: Painting Painting over timber treated with TWA IN-GROUND PASTE is not recommended.   Fasteners & metals TWA IN-GROUND PASTE is not corrosive to any common metals. In all cases for exterior timber work galvanised nails and plates are recommended.   Appearance: Light blue-green paste Odour: Slight ammoniacal and oil odour Density: 0.9kg/litre Viscosity: >25,000 Cp Flash Point: 180°C CCC pH: 8.5   Directions For Use:   General TWA IN-GROUND PASTE can be applied by trowel, heavy brush, cartridge, or by mechanical pumping. Clean up with warm water and detergent.   Surface Preparation For remedial treatment it is essential that any decayed wood be removed from the timber surface prior to application. For ground contact applications it is recommended that all nonpressure treated sapwood be removed in all cases.   Application For pole groundline treatment apply an even coating at least 6mm thick over the area to be protected. The normal recommendation is to coat the pole from approximately 450mm below ground to 1 100mm above ground. It is strongly recommended that for groundline treatments a wax or plastic coated paper or other light bandage material (ie light plastic) is wrapped around the pole over the TWA In-Ground Paste application. The light bandage will maximise absorption into the pole and significantly enhance the performance of the product. For above ground treatments (exposed endgrain or pile tops) apply a coat up to 6mm thick over the full area requiring protection. A temporary bandage or covering may be required to prevent loss of product if rain is expected within 24 hours of application. For interfaces and timber joints spply a coat up to 3mm thick over the full area before joining.   After Treatment On exposure to air the emulsion will darken and form a skin within a few hours. The oil component will continue to be absorbed and will creep along the timber grain. A dark green to black residue may remain and is easily scraped off. The timber itself where treated will change to a dark brown or black colour. Absorption may take up to two weeks out of ground contact.   Re-application Re-application requirements will depend on the nature of the item being protected and the severity of the hazard. Extensive field testing has shown that TWA In-Ground Paste can provide protection from decay even in ground contact for over 10 years. In practice, for ground contact situations such as utility poles piles and other structures, re-inspection is recommended after 5 years and re-application should be done at least every 10 years in most cases.   Precautions:   Health and Safety Wood preservatives are toxic and should be handled in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Care should be taken to avoid contact with the skin, breathing of any vapour, contact with foodstuffs and oral ingestion. Personal hygiene should be observed at all times. The use of naked lights smoking etc. must be prohibited.   Safety and Handling: General Copper naphthenate is well recognised as a safe and effective timber preservative. For personal hygiene it is recommended that the following precautions be taken.   Handling the Product Oil resistant gloves should be worn when using the product, Excessive contact with the product can cause dryness and mild irritation to the skin. Similarly eye protection should be used when working overhead or with pressurised applications. Wash hands with soap and water after use. The product will stain clothing and animal hair, eg. wool.   Environmental Considerations Avoid contamination of waterways and sewers as the product will form an oil pollution hazard. A Safety Data Sheet is available on request (SDS).   Storage and Transport:   General Store in the closed container in a secure place out of reach of children. Avoid exposing containers to heat or strong sunlight, as temperatures greater than 40°C may contribute to break down of the emulsion.   Transport Exempt from dangerous goods classification.
