There are several types of treatment that can be applied to pallets to meet regulatory requirements and prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Here are some common types of pallet treatment:
1. Heat Treatment (HT): This involves heating the pallets to a specific temperature to kill any pests or pathogens. The pallets are typically heated to a minimum core temperature of 56°C for at least 30 minutes, and a mark is applied to the pallets to indicate that they have been treated.
2. Chemical Treatment: Chemical treatment involves applying a pesticide or other chemical to the pallets to prevent the spread of pests or diseases. The most common chemical used is methyl bromide, but it is being phased out due to its harmful effects on the environment. Alternative chemicals such as sulfuryl fluoride or phosphine may be used instead.
3. Fumigation: Fumigation involves exposing the pallets to a gas or vapor to kill pests or pathogens. Methyl bromide is the most commonly used fumigant, but alternatives such as sulfuryl fluoride or phosphine may be used as well.
4. Pressure Treatment: Pressure treatment involves applying preservatives under high pressure to penetrate the wood and prevent decay and insect damage.
5. Kiln Drying: Kiln drying involves using heat to dry the pallets to a specific moisture content, which helps to prevent decay and insect damage.
It’s important to note that heat treatment and chemical treatment are the most common types of pallet treatment, and heat treatment is the preferred method due to its effectiveness and environmental friendliness. When selecting pallets for export, it’s important to ensure that the pallets have been treated appropriately and comply with regulatory requirements in the country of origin and the destination country.