A literature review of biodeterioration of particleboard indicates that damage due to termites and decay fungi may be controlled by toxic compounds such as pentachlorophenol added to particleboard adhesive. Investigations of biodeterioration of both urea/formaldehyde and phenol/formaldehyde southern pine medium density particleboard showed that both were attacked by termites and decay fungus and that the urea board disintegrated during the test. The effect of 24hour soaking in cold water, accelerated ageing, and 1-year natural ageing on termite and decay fungus attack showed a highly significant increase in damage by both agents after a 24-hour soak treatment. -- AATA