It seems that researchers at the Universities of Maryland and Colorado have the wood over their competitors – literally.
Using a two-step eco-friendly bleaching method they have succeeded in making balsa wood transparent, a development made possible by the fast-growing mallow plant’s low density.
The final product is not only more durable and lighter than glass but just as see-through.
And instead of shattering into a thousand pieces, it bends and splinters, making it an ideal candidate for a high security window.
Did we mention it’s more economical too?
Besides being cheaper to manufacture, at five times more thermally efficient than standard glass it can also put a serious dent into household energy costs.
A clear win for sustainability.
