Tag: Wood

Sustainability-In-Tech : ‘Superwood’ : Stronger Than Steel

Posted on by Paul Stradling

A new sustainable building material that’s stronger than steel and made from ordinary timber is about to go into mass production, and it could change the face of construction forever.

From The Lab to the Launch of ‘Superwood’

In 2018, materials scientist Liangbing Hu and his team at the University of Maryland developed a method to convert ordinary wood into a material significantly stronger and lighter than steel. The innovation, initially viewed as a promising (but laboratory-bound) breakthrough, involved finding a new way to densify wood to enhance its strength and durability through a chemical and compression process. It seems that only now, after seven years, 140 patents, and millions in investment later, Superwood is actually heading to market.

InventWood

The startup behind the commercial rollout, InventWood, is gearing up to begin production this summer 2025 (summer 2025 is as accurate a launch date as InventWood has given) at its first dedicated facility. Backed by $15 million in Series A funding from climate-focused investors including the Grantham Foundation and Builders Vision, the company believes Superwood could soon replace a substantial chunk of the steel used in buildings, and significantly reduce the environmental cost of construction in the process.

How is Superwood Made?

Superwood is essentially regular wood that has undergone a chemical and physical treatment to alter its structure at the molecular level, thereby significantly increasing its strength and durability.

The process starts with regular timber, which is mostly composed of the two key compounds of cellulose and lignin. Cellulose is the strong, fibrous material that gives plant cells their rigidity, while lignin acts as a kind of natural glue. Ironically, it’s the removal of lignin that unlocks the strength hidden inside the wood.

The process to strengthen the wood and turn it into ‘Superwood’ includes:

– Boiling and bonding. The wood is first boiled in a solution of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfite – a process not unlike that used in paper production. This removes most of the lignin and hemicellulose, while keeping the cellulose intact.

– Compression and heating. Next, the softened wood is compressed and gently heated, causing the cell walls to collapse. This triggers hydrogen bonding between adjacent cellulose fibres, vastly increasing the wood’s strength.

– Stabilisation. For external use, some samples are impregnated with polymers, improving resistance to moisture and environmental wear.

The Result

The result of this transformative process is to create material with up to 20 times the strength of natural wood, and a strength-to-weight ratio up to 10 times greater than steel! Also, according to InventWood, it’s also highly fire-resistant (Class A fire rating), pest- and rot-resistant and, unlike most tropical hardwoods, naturally beautiful, thanks to a deep, rich colour created during the compression process. As InventWood’s CEO Alex Lau says: “It looks like walnut or ipe, but we haven’t stained any of it,” and that “These are the natural colours. It’s just wood, re-engineered.”

Steel-Level Performance Without the Carbon

The potential sustainability benefits of Superwood are huge. For example, globally, the production of steel accounts for about 7–9 per cent of direct emissions from fossil fuels, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Also, concrete and steel together make up around 90 per cent of the carbon footprint of new buildings. This means that being able to replace even a fraction of that with a renewable, carbon-sequestering material like Superwood could be a game-changer.

On a like-for-like performance basis, Superwood generates 90 per cent lower emissions than steel and, because it locks carbon into the material itself, every Superwood beam or panel becomes a kind of mini carbon store.

The material can also be made from underutilised or waste wood, adding another layer of circularity and environmental value.

What Can It Be Used For?

At launch, InventWood is targeting facade and cladding applications for commercial and high-end residential buildings. These “skin” uses are designed to be ideal early-stage deployments, giving architects and developers a chance to work with the material in lower-stress contexts while the production process is scaled up.

However, it seems that the real ambition lies deeper in the building. For example, as Lau says, “Eventually we want to get to the bones of the building”, including structural beams, columns, and even I-beams being made entirely from Superwood. The strength, light weight, and stability of Superwood means it could be used not just in walls and roofing, but in entire load-bearing structures.

Beyond construction, other possible applications could include:

– Furniture. Stronger, lighter, and more durable wooden furniture with high aesthetic value.

– Vehicles. Potential use in interior vehicle panels or lightweight frames.

– Protective Gear. Early tests showed Superwood could stop bullet-like projectiles, leading to speculation it might be used in low-cost body armour or impact-resistant products.

– Consumer Goods. From tools to sports equipment, the applications could span industries.

Mouldable Into Different Shapes

One other big practical and aesthetic advantage is that, because it’s mouldable during the early stages of production, the wood can be shaped and formed into complex designs before hardening, thereby opening up design possibilities beyond what’s possible with standard timber.

Scaling Up

With its first production plant due to go live this summer, InventWood is keen to prove it can scale efficiently. The initial batches will be smaller and aimed at showcasing Superwood’s performance and aesthetics in real-world projects.

Over time, the plan appears to be to mass-produce structural timber products using waste or fast-growing softwoods, such as pine or poplar, woods that are cheap and abundant but typically too weak for major construction use.

By applying the Superwood process, these everyday species could be upgraded to high-performance materials without the costs or carbon associated with tropical hardwoods or engineered metal.

Investor Interest

Not surprisingly, the company has already attracted interest from major investors and partners in the climate tech space, and says the long-term goal is to replace up to 80 per cent of the structural steel currently used in building and infrastructure projects.

Hype or Hope?

Despite the excitement, it should be noted that Superwood isn’t without its critics, or its hurdles. For one, the technology is still in its commercial infancy. While lab tests and prototypes are impressive, the construction industry is notoriously conservative when it comes to adopting new materials, especially for structural use. Engineers, insurers and regulators will need to be convinced of its long-term performance under varied conditions, including moisture, temperature change, and mechanical stress.

There’s also the question of cost and scalability. While Lau says the process has been reduced from “more than a week to a few hours,” manufacturing densified wood still requires energy, chemical treatments, and controlled conditions. Whether the environmental benefits are maintained at large scale will depend on the sourcing of those inputs and the overall lifecycle of the material.

Some environmental groups have also raised concerns about supply chain transparency. If demand for Superwood grows rapidly, there will be pressure to ensure that input timber is sustainably and ethically harvested, particularly if production expands beyond waste wood and fast-growing species.

Benefits Outweigh Challenges

However, supporters of the technology argue that the potential benefits outweigh the challenges. For example, investors involved in the funding round have highlighted the urgent need for new, low-carbon materials in response to the climate crisis, and view Superwood as a promising solution that combines high strength, aesthetic appeal, and significantly lower emissions. Some believe it could represent one of the most important material innovations of the decade.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation?

If Superwood’s apparent potential to dramatically reduce carbon emissions while delivering on performance could make it an attractive alternative to steel and tropical hardwoods, especially at a time when the construction industry is under growing pressure to decarbonise.

For UK businesses, particularly those involved in architecture, building design, and sustainable development, this could open up exciting new opportunities. Superwood’s combination of strength, lightweight handling, and natural beauty offers practical advantages that go beyond green credentials. If adopted at scale, it could help developers meet net-zero targets, reduce material costs, and differentiate projects in a highly competitive market. Manufacturers and timber suppliers may also find new demand for underused or waste wood, potentially driving regional supply chains and creating jobs linked to circular production.

Also, with early use cases already being explored in areas like furniture, transport, and protective materials, Superwood’s commercial reach could extend well beyond construction. For example, as the product matures and real-world performance data emerges, its use may spread into consumer goods, automotive interiors, and even defence applications.

That said, its long-term impact will hinge on more than just innovation. It will depend on how quickly the production process can be scaled, how effectively it’s regulated, and whether sustainability claims can be backed by transparent, verifiable supply chains. For clients, designers, and contractors alike, due diligence will be essential.

Still, in a sector where true breakthroughs are rare and often slow to emerge, Superwood offers something genuinely different, i.e. a material that aligns strength, sustainability, and versatility in a way that could reshape how (and what) we build in the years ahead.

Sustainability-in-Tech : Converting Waste Heat Into Power With Wood

Posted on by Paul Stradling

Researchers at the University of Limerick (UL) and the University of Valencia have developed a method to convert waste heat into electricity using lignin, a byproduct of the paper industry, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional energy recovery methods.

What Is Energy Recovery? 

Energy recovery (heat recovery in this case) is the process of capturing and reusing waste heat generated by industrial processes, machinery, or natural sources. Instead of allowing this energy to dissipate, heat recovery repurposes it to perform useful work, such as generating electricity or heating systems. By improving energy efficiency and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, heat recovery offers real value in lowering operational costs and minimising environmental impact.

What Inspired the Research? 

Every day, industries, homes and even our bodies produce vast amounts of waste heat, with approximately 66 per cent of industrial energy output lost as heat, much of it below 200°C. Recognising this untapped potential, researchers at UL, supported by Irish Government funding and led by Muhammad Muddasar, PhD candidate at the School of Engineering, focused on developing a sustainable solution for harnessing this energy.

Traditional thermoelectric materials, such as bismuth telluride, have been used for heat-to-electricity conversion but are costly, toxic, and reliant on finite resources. Seeking a greener alternative, the researchers identified lignin \9a renewable, abundant byproduct of the paper industry) as an ideal, eco-friendly candidate for creating efficient thermoelectric materials.

The Thermoelectric Effect 

At the heart of this discovery lies the ‘thermoelectric effect’, where a temperature difference across a material generates an electrical potential. The UL and Valencia team engineered lignin-based membranes infused with a salt solution to exploit this phenomenon.

When a temperature gradient was applied to the lignin membrane, ions within the salt solution migrated i.e., positively charged ions moved towards the cooler side, while negatively charged ions gravitated towards the warmer side. This ion separation generated an electric potential across the membrane, which could be harnessed as electricity.

Lignin-Based Membranes Are Great at Converting Low-Grade Heat to Electricity 

The researchers developed membranes from lignin that can turn low-temperature heat (below 200°C) into electricity. This type of heat is commonly wasted in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants and power stations, so these membranes could help capture and reuse it.

The study showed that lignin membranes performed well for this purpose, with a figure of merit (ZTi) of 0.25, measuring their ability to convert heat to electricity effectively. They also achieved an ionic Seebeck coefficient of 5.71 mV K⁻¹, demonstrating a strong electrical response from temperature differences.

The lignin-based membranes are lightweight, safe for biological environments, and eco-friendly, making them suitable for applications ranging from industrial energy recovery to sustainable energy solutions.

Practical Applications and Benefits 

The implications of this discovery could extend across industries and everyday scenarios. For instance, manufacturing facilities generate vast amounts of waste heat during production processes. Integrating lignin-based thermoelectric systems could allow these facilities to recover and reuse energy, reducing operational costs and environmental footprints.

Remote and off-grid locations could also benefit significantly. Lignin membranes could power sensors, communication devices, and small-scale lighting systems, eliminating the need for traditional fuel-based generators. Wearable technologies could also leverage the discovery, e.g. membranes could enable self-powered fitness trackers, medical monitors, and GPS devices that utilise body heat for continuous energy supply.

In buildings and infrastructure, lignin membranes could be integrated into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to recapture waste heat and offset energy consumption. Their eco-friendly nature aligns perfectly with green building standards and sustainability goals.

A Green Alternative to Supercapacitors? 

Beyond energy harvesting, the UL team explored the use of lignin-based materials in energy storage. Traditional supercapacitors, which rapidly charge and discharge energy, often rely on carbon derived from fossil fuels. The researchers developed porous carbon electrodes from lignin, creating a sustainable alternative.

These lignin-based supercapacitors demonstrated exceptional performance in storing and delivering energy generated from waste heat. Their rapid charge-discharge capability makes them ideal for applications requiring quick bursts of power, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

Broader Context and Similar Research 

The study adds to a growing body of research exploring sustainable materials for energy generation. In recent years, cellulose-based membranes and ionic gels have gained attention for their thermoelectric properties. However, lignin offers the unique advantage of being a byproduct of an existing industrial process, requiring minimal additional processing, and making it highly cost-effective.

For example, a 2021 study by researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden highlighted the potential of cellulose membranes for thermoelectric applications. While these membranes demonstrated impressive performance, their mechanical fragility posed challenges for practical use. By contrast, the UL team’s lignin-based membranes are mechanically robust and suitable for real-world applications.

Environmental and Economic Impact 

Lignin-based thermoelectric materials offer clear environmental benefits. By converting waste heat into electricity, these membranes could reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance energy efficiency across sectors. Harnessing lignin can thus transform what was once industrial waste into a valuable resource, contributing to a circular economy.

Cost Savings 

Economically, lignin-based technology could drive significant cost savings. The pulp and paper industry produces an estimated 50 million tonnes of lignin annually, much of which is discarded or burned for low-value energy recovery. Redirecting this lignin towards high-value applications, such as thermoelectric energy harvesting, could represent a win-win for industries and the environment.

Key Challenges and Future Directions 

Despite its promise, the technology is not without challenges. Scaling up lignin membrane production while maintaining consistent quality will require further research. Also, optimising the membranes’ performance under varying environmental conditions (such as humidity and prolonged heat exposure) remains a focus area.

Looking Ahead 

The researchers envision extending lignin-based materials to other forms of energy harvesting, such as solar thermal systems. Enhancements in membrane design, such as incorporating nanoscale channels for improved ion transport, could further boost efficiency and broaden applications.

What Does This Mean for Your Organisation? 

The development of lignin-based membranes could represent an exciting leap forward in sustainable energy technology. By converting waste heat (a largely untapped resource) into electricity, this innovation addresses both energy inefficiency and industrial waste. It is a clear example of how a circular economy can transform byproducts like lignin from the paper industry into valuable resources, paving the way for more environmentally responsible and economically viable solutions.

The potential value to industries could be significant. For example, in manufacturing facilities and power plants, where vast amounts of low-grade heat are routinely wasted, integrating lignin-based thermoelectric systems could reduce operational costs and improve energy efficiency. These membranes offer a way to recover lost energy and transform it into an asset, potentially reshaping markets that rely heavily on energy-intensive processes. Similarly, the transportation sector, including electric vehicles, could benefit from this technology’s ability to power auxiliary systems using heat generated during operation, improving overall efficiency and sustainability.

For businesses, the membranes present multiple opportunities. Industries involved in energy-intensive processes could achieve cost savings and reduced emissions, aligning with growing regulatory and public demands for sustainable practices. Furthermore, the eco-friendly nature of lignin membranes may open new markets, as green building standards and sustainability certifications increasingly influence decisions in sectors such as construction, infrastructure, and electronics. Companies that adopt and invest in this technology early could gain a competitive advantage in these evolving markets.

The implications for off-grid and remote locations are equally compelling. Lignin membranes could power devices and systems in areas where traditional energy infrastructure is lacking or expensive e.g., communication systems and wearable technologies. This could reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support the global push for decentralised, renewable energy solutions.

Although challenges remain in scaling production and optimising performance, the potential economic and environmental benefits of lignin-based membranes are undeniable. By offering a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to conventional thermoelectric materials, this innovation could revolutionise energy recovery across industries and inspire a shift in how businesses approach waste, sustainability, and energy use.

Sustainability-in-Tech : Microsoft Data Centres Made Of … Wood!

Posted on by Paul Stradling

Microsoft has announced that it is building its first data-centres made with superstrong ultra-lightweight wood in a bid to slash the use of steel and concrete, which are among the most significant sources of carbon emissions.

The Need for Sustainable Data Centres 

The global rise in data consumption has intensified the need for data-centres, which power everything from cloud storage to AI. However, data-centres are notoriously resource-intensive, demanding vast amounts of energy to run and cool high-performance servers. Traditionally constructed using steel and concrete, data-centres also contribute significantly to the carbon footprint through the embodied carbon in these materials. For example, according to the World Economic Forum, steel production is responsible for around 7 per cent of global carbon emissions, while cement production accounts for another 8 per cent.

Carbon Neutral by 2030 

Microsoft has pledged to become carbon-negative by 2030, aiming to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits. As part of this commitment, the company has been experimenting with innovative materials to cut down emissions in its construction processes, resulting in the decision to use wood-based construction for two new data-centres in Virginia, USA.

Why CLT? 

The use of wood in these new data-centres, specifically cross-laminated timber (CLT), is expected to reduce the embodied carbon footprint by 35 per cent compared to traditional steel structures and by an impressive 65 per cent compared to standard concrete. This material, which is central to Microsoft’s strategy, has been gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to steel and concrete. As engineered wood, CLT’s made by gluing multiple layers of timber at right angles, creating a product that is both strong and lightweight. One of the significant advantages of CLT is its fire resistance, i.e. when exposed to fire, CLT forms a char layer on its surface that acts as an insulator, slowing down the spread of flames and maintaining the structural integrity longer than steel.

This innovative approach is not without its challenges. While CLT is increasingly used in Europe for green building projects, the technology is still relatively new in the United States, especially for large-scale applications like data-centres.

By adopting this material, Microsoft hopes to encourage broader acceptance in the industry, potentially lowering costs and boosting availability. According to Thomas Hooker, an associate at Thornton Tomasetti, the structural engineering firm working with Microsoft, “Microsoft’s scale means they can act as a market mover, driving these technologies towards more widespread use.” 

Actually, It’s a Wood, Steel, and Concrete Hybrid 

Although Microsoft is keen to highlight the wood (CLT) used in its new data-centres, in reality, Microsoft’s new data-centres employ a hybrid construction model, combining CLT with steel and concrete. While CLT serves as the primary structural material, a thin layer of concrete reinforces floors and ceilings to ensure durability. This combination allows Microsoft to achieve a balance between sustainability and structural resilience, reducing emissions without compromising performance.

Speed and Cost Advantages 

Beyond the environmental benefits, hybrid construction with CLT offers practical advantages in speed and cost. Since CLT panels are prefabricated, they can be assembled more quickly and with less skilled labour than traditional steel or concrete. This efficiency reduces both construction time and costs, further adding to the sustainability benefits by lowering resource consumption.

Microsoft’s Climate Innovation Fund 

Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its data-centres. In 2020, for example, the company launched its $1 billion Climate Innovation Fund to support green technology ventures. This fund has already invested $761 million in companies developing low-carbon building materials, including ventures focused on green steel and low-carbon concrete.

One example is Microsoft’s investment in H2 Green Steel (now Stegra), a Swedish company developing steel made with renewable hydrogen rather than coal. This method, which reduces carbon emissions by up to 95 per cent compared to traditional steel production, highlights Microsoft’s broader strategy to decarbonise the materials used across its supply chain. Similarly, Microsoft has partnered with CarbonCure, a company that injects carbon dioxide into concrete, effectively trapping it and reducing emissions.

Brandon Middaugh, who oversees the Climate Innovation Fund, has emphasised the importance of collaboration with suppliers, saying: “What we’re trying to do is be the catalyst… that gets these early contracts done.” By investing in these companies, Microsoft is supporting the development of sustainable materials that could eventually become mainstream, helping to bridge the gap between current practices and its ambitious 2030 goals.

Not The Only Tech Company with Sustainability Initiatives 

It’s worth noting here, however, that Microsoft is not alone in its sustainability strategy. For example, as part of a broader trend within the tech industry, other major companies, including Google, Amazon, and Apple, have also launched initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact, particularly in the area of data-centres.

Google has been a leader in renewable energy for over a decade, aiming to run all of its data-centres on carbon-free energy by 2030. The company’s “24/7 Carbon-Free Energy” initiative involves matching every hour of energy consumption with clean energy sources like wind and solar, effectively eliminating reliance on fossil fuels. Google has also pioneered the use of AI to optimise data-centre cooling systems, achieving reported energy savings of up to 30 per cent.

Amazon, too, has committed to reaching net-zero carbon by 2040 through its Climate Pledge initiative. The company’s sustainability efforts focus on renewable energy, with Amazon now being the world’s largest corporate buyer of renewable energy. Also, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is exploring advanced cooling methods and waste heat recovery to reduce the environmental footprint of its data-centres.

Apple’s approach to sustainability involves a combination of renewable energy and innovative materials. The company’s data-centres have been powered entirely by renewable energy since 2013, and it has implemented closed-loop manufacturing processes that use recycled materials for its products. In recent years, Apple has also started using recycled aluminium and rare earth elements in its devices, reducing its dependence on resource-intensive mining.

While each company’s strategy has unique elements, they appear to share the common goal of reducing emissions and adopting sustainable practices. Microsoft’s use of CLT sets it apart, however, as it is one of the first to incorporate engineered wood at a hyperscale level. This bold approach could inspire others in the industry to rethink their construction practices, particularly in regions where sustainable building materials like CLT are readily available.

Overcoming the Challenges of Green Construction 

That said, building with low-carbon materials like CLT is easier said than done and presents certain challenges. For example, CLT costs more than traditional timber and requires specialised knowledge for installation. David Swanson, a structural engineer involved in Microsoft’s data-centre design, has acknowledged these challenges but has noted that compared to traditional timber, CLT can be cost-effective for large projects due to reduced construction time and less need for skilled labour.

Another challenge is scalability. While CLT is gaining popularity, the supply chain for low-carbon concrete and steel remains fragmented, with smaller producers struggling to keep up with demand. To address these issues, Microsoft has been working closely with suppliers, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to develop sustainable alternatives. According to Jim Hanna, Microsoft’s data-centre sustainability lead, “It’s an all-hands-on-deck task to meet our sustainability goals.” 

Also, the technology behind green building materials is still evolving. For example, Microsoft has invested in Prometheus Materials, a company developing zero-carbon cement from microalgae. This technology (though promising) is still in its early stages and requires further testing before it can be widely adopted. As Hanna notes, “Planning for a net-zero carbon future is a complex exercise, requiring us to be system thinkers across the entire value chain.” 

Setting a Precedent for Green Construction 

Microsoft’s wood-based data-centres are more than just an experiment; they may represent a new direction in sustainable construction. By using CLT on such a large scale, Microsoft is challenging industry norms and encouraging other companies to consider alternative materials that are both sustainable and functional. This approach could pave the way for broader adoption of low-carbon construction practices across sectors, from technology to healthcare and education.

A Glimpse Into the Future? 

As the tech industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, Microsoft’s strategy offers a glimpse into the future of green building. With its hybrid construction model, commitment to sustainable materials, and support for climate innovation, Microsoft is positioning itself as a leader in environmental responsibility. If successful, the wooden data-centres in Virginia could set a new standard for sustainability in the industry, demonstrating that innovation and sustainability can indeed go hand in hand.

What Does This Mean for Your Organisation? 

Microsoft’s venture into using wood as a primary construction material for data-centres may signal more than a commitment to environmental targets; it points to a future in which technology and sustainability can be seamlessly intertwined. While cross-laminated timber (CLT) still has hurdles to overcome in terms of cost, availability, and specialist knowledge, the success of Microsoft’s hybrid model could inspire a paradigm shift across the tech sector and beyond. If these pioneering data-centres prove effective, they could pave the way for other companies to adopt low-carbon materials in their operations, particularly in industries where data infrastructure continues to expand.

The potential of this project extends beyond Microsoft’s carbon reduction and could open doors to new possibilities for sustainable building on a large scale. By investing in CLT and other low-carbon materials, Microsoft may be driving demand and supporting innovations that could eventually reduce costs, making these options more accessible. Also, the impact of Microsoft’s choices is amplified by its partnerships and investments through the Climate Innovation Fund, which addresses gaps in the low-carbon supply chain.

This support plays a vital role in empowering smaller green startups and accelerating the market readiness of sustainable materials, a crucial factor if the construction industry is to meet its carbon reduction targets. For instance, the company’s collaboration with green steel and concrete companies demonstrates how leveraging corporate reach can catalyse broader adoption of sustainable practices across the entire value chain.