Modification of wood and veneer (Aalto University)

The use of wood in housing is limited by its interactions with water, which is why wooden surfaces are often considered unhygienic and difficult to maintain.

The invention provides a sustainable way to reduce sensitivity of the wooden surface to liquid water, while ability of wood to release and absorb moisture vapor stays intact. The material properties of the treated wood give it a great potential to passively mediate the internal climate of living spaces and, therefore, could lead to reduced energy demand, greater energy efficiency and more comfort.

Moisture buffering of the wood is a new concept and there might be a lot of room for new business in this domain.