The international group has developed a process that removes or bleaches lignin, the source of wood’s brown color. Epoxy resin is then injected into the remaining wood, creating a material that is stronger than plexiglass and glass.
The work is described in more detail in a recent issue of Scientific American. The team is now working on alternatives to the epoxy resin, including hydrogen peroxide with ultraviolet radiation or a polymer alternative made from citrus waste, to improve the sustainability credentials of the process.
