Strong and tough structural wood materials, and methods for fabricating and use thereof
US11130256B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2018 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 5, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
- CPC primaryD21C3/00
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A super strong and tough densified wood structure is formed by subjecting a cellulose-based natural wood material to a chemical treatment that partially removes lignin therefrom. The treated wood retains lumina of the natural wood, with cellulose nanofibers of cell walls being aligned. The treated wood is then pressed in a direction crossing the direction in which the lumina extend, such that the lumina collapse and any residual fluid within the wood is removed. As a result, the cell walls become entangled and hydrogen bonds are formed between adjacent cellulose nanofibers, thereby improving the strength and toughness of the wood among other mechanical properties. By further modifying, manipulating, or machining the densified wood, it can be adapted to various applications.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.