General Information:

PCP (Pentachlorphenol),  is a standardized oil-borne preservative used commercially for preserving wood. PCP was used as a herbicide, defoliant, mossicide and desinfectant. Due to its high toxicity and its slow biodegration, the use of PCP has declined.

PCPs are stored in fatty tissue. Side effects of a chronic exposure to wood preservatives are allergies and a general increase in chemical sensitivity.

PCP can be detected for several weeks after exposure.

Besides its agricultural uses, lindane (gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane) was used in forestry for wood and timber protection (also see Pestizides).

Research:

Karmaus W., Wolf N. Reduced Birthweight and Length in the Offspring of Females exposed to PCDFs, PCP, and Lindane. Environmental Health Perspectives. Vol 103. No12, 1995