What is chromated copper arsenate (CCA)?
Chromated copper arsenate, or CCA, is a chemical compound mixture containing inorganic arsenic, copper and chromium that has been used for wood preservative uses since the 1940s. CCA is injected into wood by a process that uses high pressure to saturate wood products with the chemicals. CCA is intended to protect wood from dry rot, fungi, molds, termites, and other pests that can threaten the integrity of wood products. Chromated copper arsenate or CCA, is a chemical preservative that is used to protect wood from being destroyed by microbes, termites, or other wood-boring insects. CCA contains forms of the chemicals chromium, copper, and arsenic. CCA is largely used to pressure treat lumber intended for outdoor uses such as home, school, and community playgrounds; decks; and landscape timbers. CCA-treated lumber is also used in building structures. What work is CPSC doing related to CCA-treated wood? In May 2001, CPSC was petitioned by the Environmental Working Group and the Healthy Bu
