What's Happening?
InventWood, a company based in Frederick, Maryland, has developed a new product called Superwood, which aims to revolutionize the use of wood in construction. Founded by Liangbing Hu, a Yale professor, the company has received a $20 million grant from
the Department of Energy to support its research. Superwood is created through a two-step process that modifies lignin and removes hemicellulose, followed by precision densification to enhance the wood's strength and stiffness. The result is a material significantly stronger and more dent-resistant than natural wood, while retaining its aesthetic and carbon sequestration properties. InventWood holds 144 patents related to this technology, with 41 granted. The company is currently focusing on exterior applications and plans to expand into interior products next year.
Why It's Important?
Superwood represents a significant advancement in building materials, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like steel. Its enhanced properties could lead to wider adoption in construction, potentially reducing reliance on steel and other non-renewable resources. The development of Superwood aligns with growing interest in sustainable building practices and materials that contribute to carbon reduction. As the product undergoes testing and certification for building code approval, it could pave the way for innovative applications in architecture and construction, influencing industry standards and practices.
What's Next?
Superwood is currently undergoing third-party testing and certification for structural applications, with production capacity for 2025 already allocated. New orders are expected to be available in 2026. As the product gains approval and enters the market, it may attract interest from architects and builders seeking sustainable materials. The success of Superwood could lead to further research and development in re-engineering natural materials, potentially expanding its applications beyond construction to areas like furniture design.
