Abstract: The present invention provides an inexpensive and sensitive system and method for detecting analytes present in a medium. The system comprises a diffraction enhancing element, such as functionalized microspheres, which are modified such that they are capable of binding with a target analyte. Additionally, the system comprises a polymer film, which may include a metal coating, upon which is printed a specific, predetermined pattern of a analyte-specific receptors. Finally, the system includes a wicking agent which permits the system to be a single step system which avoids the necessity of any additional rinsing steps. Upon attachment of a target analyte to select areas of the polymer film, either directly or with the diffraction enhancing element, diffraction of transmitted and/or reflected light occurs via the physical dimensions and defined, precise placement of the analyte. A diffraction image, such as a hologram, is produced which can be easily seen with the eye or, optionally, with a sensing device.

Abstract: A wood preservative based on leaching-resistant, inorganic compounds for protection of wood and wood materials against wood-damaging insects and fungi, including wood-rot fungi, is disclosed. The wood preservative, which is fixed without chromium, contains as active ingredient in an aqueous solution which is stable on impregnation, (a) a Cu(II), Zn, Ni, Co, Fe, Mg and/or Mn salt of monofluorophosphoric acid, or (b) an alkali metal salt and/or ammonium salt of monofluorophosphoric acid, in the presence of a Zn, Ni, Co, Fe, Mg and/or Mn salt of hydrochloric, nitric or sulfuric acid and, optionally in addition to (a) or (b), one or more members of the group comprising NH.sub.3, HCl, HNO.sub.3, H.sub.2 SO.sub.4, HF, alkali metal hydrogen fluoride and ammonium hydrogen fluoride. Alternately, the composition contains (c) an alkali metal salt and/or ammonium salt of monofluorophosphoric acid in the presence of a Cu(II) salt of hydrochloric, nitric or sulfuric acid in a Cu.sup.2+ :PO.sub.3 F.sup.