Abstract: A system to deliver a treating agent of interest to a surrounding environment over an extended period of time is described. The system comprises surrounding a treating agent or agents with one or more biodegradable materials. The biodegradable materials biodegrade at a rate that will slowly and continuously release the treating agent or agents of interest to the surrounding environment. An example of the method of the present invention is described for the treatment of wood supporting structures to prevent their decay and rotting in the earth. The method is particularly advantageous for treating wood supporting structures including, but not limited to: telephone poles, utility poles, pilings, railroad ties, posts, foundations and other building supports and the like.

Abstract: A process for the extraction and purification of TCDD (2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) from a sample matrix. The process of the present invention overcomes a problem of prior art processes for extracting TCDD, by providing for chemical destruction of potentially interfering components in a sample matrix making the steam distillation of TCDD possible. A typical sample matrix comprises blood serum.

Abstract: A method to extend the functional life of wood structures by applying fundamental principles of biology and chemistry to control the activity of wood decay organisms while minimizing the use of environmentally hazardous chemicals. The method comprises applying a microbial treating solution to a portion of the wood structure subject to decay from microbial organisms; and covering the treated portion of the wood structure with a substantially insect impenetrable material. The method of the present invention is particularly advantageous for treating wood supporting structures including, but not limited to: telephone poles, utility poles, pilings, foundations and other building supports and the like. Also disclosed are novel wood structures.