Transforming wood to rival steel and concrete structures

In a groundbreaking development, InventWood, a Maryland-based company, has introduced SUPERWOOD – a fire-resistant, carbon-negative material that boasts unparalleled strength and durability. The company's 90,000-square-foot facility, currently in its final commissioning phase, is set to produce over one million square feet of SUPERWOOD annually at full capacity.

The production process, which is inherently energy-efficient, involves a two-step method: molecular restructuring and densification. The molecular restructuring process modifies lignin and removes hemicellulose, the "glue" that holds wood fibers together. This leaves behind only the strong and resilient cellulose fibers, which are then brought so close together that they form new chemical bonds.

The densification process involves hot-pressing the chemically treated wood, resulting in near-optimal densification of the natural structure. This dense cellulose structure not only contributes to fire resistance but also makes SUPERWOOD up to 12 times stronger and 10 times more durable than ordinary wood.

One of the most remarkable aspects of SUPERWOOD is its carbon footprint. While steel production releases approximately 1.8 tons of CO2 for every ton of material made, producing a ton of SUPERWOOD will release only 0.4 tons of CO2. In fact, SUPERWOOD sequesters up to 1.5 tons of CO2 per ton, making it a net carbon sink.

Moreover, SUPERWOOD is up to 50 percent stronger than steel, 80 percent lighter, and Class A fire resistant (ASTM E84). Unlike steel, which loses 50 percent of its tensile strength at 500 degrees Celsius, SUPERWOOD retains its strength.

InventWood has tested more than 19 different species of wood for SUPERWOOD production, and the company aims to improve forest ecology, enhance ecosystem value, and support rural communities using uneconomic tree parts and undervalued forest resources.

The company is pursuing ASTM Class A fire rating certification and plans to seek NFPA 285 certification next. With its impressive properties and eco-friendly production, SUPERWOOD is poised to revolutionise various industries that rely on strong, lightweight, and fire-resistant materials.

A new facility is expected to produce more than 20 times that amount, further cementing SUPERWOOD's position as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials. The Frederick plant, once fully operational, will undoubtedly contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions while providing a superior material for numerous applications.