A New Era in Construction Materials
Wood is proving to be a strong contender for the future of construction materials, even when compared to concrete and steel. A groundbreaking development from a Maryland-based company could position wood as a leading choice in the industry. InventWood has introduced a product called Superwood, which offers remarkable properties that challenge traditional building materials.
Superwood isn’t just any piece of lumber. It boasts 10 times the strength-to-weight ratio of steel while being six times lighter. This material is also resistant to fire, rot, and pests. What’s more, its production process is 90% cleaner than that of steel, all while maintaining the appearance and texture of regular wood. The company claims that this innovation showcases the potential of combining natural structures with advanced science.
The creation of Superwood begins at the molecular level. By removing specific components from the timber’s cellular structure, experts use food-safe chemicals to transform the material. The wood is then compressed, increasing its density by four times, which creates hydrogen bonds between cellulose fibers. This process enhances the material’s strength and resistance to decay.
Customized design options can be achieved through finishing treatments, according to InventWood. Environmentalist and entrepreneur Paul Hawken praised the product, stating it could shape the future of global construction. He described it as “an extraordinary breakthrough that exalts the genius of the natural world.”
Despite these advancements, there are still challenges to overcome. Many people are hesitant to upgrade to heat pump systems due to various reasons such as installation costs, living in cold areas, lack of knowledge, or already having one. However, the potential benefits of such systems are significant.
InventWood has secured $15 million in funding and plans to begin shipping products from Frederick by September. The company has raised a total of $50 million from private and government sources. The innovation originated from research conducted by University of Maryland Professor Liangbing Hu, who has previously made headlines for genetic modifications to wood that make it stronger for construction use.
Other institutions are also exploring ways to enhance wood’s properties. Experts at Michigan Technological University are working on creating stronger materials using layers of wood and resin. Some architects predict that wooden skyscrapers will become more common as safe and sustainable alternatives to concrete and steel towers.
The construction sector is responsible for 37% of global heat-trapping air pollution, according to the United Nations. These emissions are linked to increased risks of severe weather, which are impacting insurance premiums and coverage. Consumers and builders can support cleaner innovations by investing in companies developing better materials.
Investing in such enterprises allows individuals to build a portfolio that aligns with their personal values. Additionally, an easy way to reduce home pollution is to switch to LED lightbulbs. Replacing old bulbs with newer ones can save hundreds of dollars annually on power bills while producing five times less pollution.
For InventWood, the team is focused on strategic partnerships for product deployment in North America. By prioritizing domestic sourcing and production, the company aims to provide a sustainable alternative to imported steel and aluminum. The goal is to maintain high standards while supporting American manufacturing.
Supporting local economies and sustainable practices can lead to long-term benefits for both the environment and communities. As the demand for eco-friendly materials grows, innovations like Superwood may play a crucial role in shaping the future of construction.