Superwood: A Revolutionary Material by InventWood
Superwood is a groundbreaking material developed by the American company InventWood. It is touted as being 10 times stronger than steel while weighing six times less. Co-founded by materials scientist Lianbing Hu, InventWood recently introduced superwood to the market, promising a transformative impact on construction methods.
Historical Context and Innovation
Throughout history, humans have relied on wood and stone for building shelters. Modern construction evolved with the use of steel, cement, and glass. However, superwood demonstrates that wood, an ancient material, can still be engineered to meet contemporary demands by enhancing its natural properties and retaining sustainability.
Scientific Breakthrough in Wood Engineering
Hu and his team redesigned wood’s inner structure to improve its resistance while preserving its lightness and natural origin. The innovation hinges on strengthening cellulose, the primary component of plant fibers.
“Cellulose is the most abundant biopolymer on the planet,” said Professor Liangbing Hu.
To achieve this, Hu removed lignin, the substance responsible for the wood’s color and part of its strength, and then densified and toughened the cellulose structure, resulting in superwood's remarkable properties.
Potential Impact on Construction
Superwood’s unique combination of strength, lightness, and sustainability could revolutionize how buildings and houses are constructed, offering a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials like steel.
Summary
InventWood’s superwood leverages advanced cellulose engineering to create a material that is both lighter and stronger than steel, indicating a major shift toward sustainable building practices.