Studies on the control of subterranean termites by inorganic pesticides

Studies on the wood preserving techniques against subterranean termites have been undertaken with a view to promote the use of inorganic indigenous pesticides in our country. The thin films of gelatine solution (glue of animal hides) containing 10% calcium carbonate or 5% copper sulphate as well as sodium silicate solution containing 12% calcium carbonate +10% zinc oxide coated separately on wooden stakes prevented termite attack in soil up to 2, 4 and 5 years, respectively. Whereas control wooden stakes were found to be severely damaged by termites within 6 months. Stakes coated with Solignum^®-white used as standard wood preservative for comparison remained free from termite infestation for a period of 5 years.