Abstract: An apparatus method of separating organic mass into its component parts in environmentally contained hygienic conditions at high thermal efficiency. One example is extraction of aromatic oils from citrus fruit. Organic materials derive from plants which contain (A) dry matter; (B) aqueous solutions and (C) secretions. The apparatus and method separates organic mass into these three components to create positive valuable products, frequently from negative value wastes. The apparatus and method utilizes a drying medium comprising a mixture of self derived superheated steam generated from part of the moisture given off by the material itself and air. The apparatus is fully enclosed, thus being environmentally benign and eliminating odors and deleterious emissions common to non-contained and/or direct fired dryers.

Abstract: A method of treating moisture containing wood including the step of exposing the timber or wood to a vaporous azeotrope of an organ-boron component and an alcohol at a temperature below the alcohol's boiling point. The organ-boron compound hydrolyses with the moisture to form boric acid in the timber or board.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of impregnating wood in order to protect it against fungal decay. Conventionally wood has been treated with copper-chromium-arsenic preservatives in a one stage treatment, e.g. by impregnating the wood with a solution of these compounds. The chromium component serves to fix the copper in the wood to prevent it from leaching out. It has now been found that a two-stage treatment in which (1) the copper and fixative agent are impregnated without arsenic and (2) the arsenic is impregnated separately, improves resistance of the wood to soft-rot fungi. The invention is particularly useful for treating hardwoods.