Revolutionizing construction materials
Nanocellulose has emerged as a valuable addition to construction and building materials, contributing to improved strength and environmental benefits in a host of products.
One example is particle board bound with cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) rather than a formaldehyde-containing synthetic resin. The product made with CNF tests higher for fracture toughness and sequesters carbon and oxygen for its life span — typically decades. Eliminating the use of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, erases concerns about potentially harmful off-gassing in a product used widely in furniture and countertops.
91¸£Àû holds a patent for the process to make particle board with CNF, and a similar process could be used to create composite fiber board for insulation and other composite wood products; lighter, stronger alternatives to traditional drywall; binders for paint that would reduce the need for petroleum-based binders and more.
91¸£Àû researchers are exploring these and other possibilities along with public and private partners. Work led by Dr. Mehdi Tajvidi involves collaborations with several companies on products, including a scratch-, fire- and water-resistant flooring system made of CNF and cement. Tajvidi also is developing nanocellulose construction technology as part of P3Nano, a public-private partnership founded by the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities and the U.S. Forest Service.