"In this work, we tried to reduce the building energy consumption even more by incorporating a material that can absorb, store and release heat." To create the optically transparent wood, the researchers first removed a light-absorbing component called lignin from the cell walls of balsa wood. The researchers could see through the material, yet it was hazy enough to provide privacy if used as a major building material. (Image: American Chemical Society)The transparent wood also had favourable mechanical properties, enabling it to bear heavy loads. The researchers estimate that transparent wood could be available for niche applications in interior design in as little as five years.

Source: Daily Mirror April 03, 2019 14:41 UTC