Preliminary Study of the Penetration of Sodium Arsenite and Sodium Monochloroacetate Solutions into Trunks of Yellow Birch and Red Spruce

Abstract

1. A study was made of the penetration of sodium arsenite and sodium monochloroacetate solutions through the exposed surface of the sapwood into the trunks of yellow birch (Betula lutea Michx. f.) and red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.) trees. 2. The absorption of either chemical into spruce tended to decrease with time toward an equilibrium value which occurred in about 5 days. In addition, there was a diurnal fluctuation, with a slower rate occurring during the late-evening and early-morning hours. 3. Both chemicals showed an inverse relation between absorption into spruce and concentration. The tested concentrations of sodium arsenite penetrated more slowly than corresponding concentrations of sodium monochloroacetate. 4. Acid solutions of sodium monochloroacetate were taken up by red spruce faster than alkaline solutions. 5. A seasonal variation in absorption rate was observed for both chemicals in spruce. There was a sharp maximum in absorption on June 4, followed by a rapid decrease from mid-June through mid-July, followed by another peak in late July and early August. 6. No absorption of either solution was observed for yellow birch until after the cessation of bleeding, which occurred abruptly on May 26, when the leaves were half expanded. 7. The absorption of chemicals did not occur so readily in yellow birch as in red spruce. High concentrations of treating chemicals resulted in a net outward movement of water from the birch tree into the reservoirs.