Biologically synthesised copper oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticle formulation as an environmentally friendly wood protectant for the management of wood borer, Lyctus africanus

The management of Lyctus africanus, one of the major dry wood pests in the tropical region is difficult due to its secluded habits and long lifecycle and therefore, its control measures are limited to the usage of insecticides. The insecticides particularly the metal salts are effective, but in some cases their leaching leads to concerns about environmental pollution. Nanometal particles are found to be more effective than metal salts. Presently available metal nanoparticles are synthesized using physical or chemical methods and their production results in toxic by-products and are costly. The current investigation deals with synthesis and use of metal nanoparticle for wood protection in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way. The plant extracts that are reported to have wood preservative properties were used for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles. Copper oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using leaf extracts of Lantana camara. The efficacy of the synthesized Lantana camara leaf extract and copper oxide or zinc oxide nanoparticle formulation as a wood protectant was tested against Lyctus africanus according to standard BIS. The formulation of copper oxide nanoparticle and Lantana camara leaf extract effectively protected the treated rubberwood blocks from Lyctus africanus attack, when compared to zinc oxide nanoparticle Lantana camara leaf extract formulation and can be developed into a stable, ecofriendly wood preservative.