A new wood-based material developed by scientists in the United States may soon disrupt one of the most entrenched pillars of modern manufacturing: steel. Derived from natural timber, this so-called superwood has been chemically and mechanically transformed to become stronger, tougher, and lighter than some industrial metals, all while remaining renewable and biodegradable.
First developed by researchers at the University of Maryland, the process involves removing key components from raw wood and then compressing it into a dense, fibrous structure that radically outperforms untreated timber. According to peer-reviewed tests, the resulting material boasts tensile strength comparable to high-grade alloys, while weighing a fraction of what metals typically do.
It’s not just a promising lab experiment. The material has already begun commercial production through a spin-off company and is being positioned as a low-carbon alternative for industries ranging from construction and aerospace to automotive and defense.
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