RESEARCH ON THE USAGE OF ANTIFUNGAL AND ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF INDIGO (INDIGOFERA TINCTORIA L.) COLORANT USED AS A WOOD PRESERVATIVE

Abstract

In this study the antifungal and antimicrobial property of plant extracts from indigo was determined when used as a wood preservative. The extract was dissolved from Indigofera tinctoria L. by using an ultrasound assisted method and then applied to Turkish oriental beech and Scots pine wood blocks with the immersion (classic) and immersion+ultrasonic assisted methods. Aluminum sulfate, copper sulfate and vinegar were used for mordants. Results were compared with synthetic dye. Treated blocks were exposed to Rhodonia placenta and Trametes versicolor attacks for 16 weeks, according the standard TS 5563-EN 113, 1996 method. Antibacterial activity and yeast inhibition of the extracts were determined by the agar dilution method by using the disk diffusion method for bacteria. As a result of substance indigo dye mordant mixtures of copper sulphate and vinegar based synthetic dyes fungis rots more resistant against which that have emerged. Copper mixes showed better antimicrobial activity against all types of microorganisms. In conclusion, it was found that indigo extracts and mordant mixes could be used as wood preservatives.