Scientists have created an artificial wood that is reportedly as strong as wood, but lacks its

traditional weaknesses: fire and water.

The synthetic material, developed by researchers at the University of Science and Technology of
China in Hefei, was created by both extreme heat and freeze-drying. The resin was heated to
temperatures as high as 400 degrees Fahrenheit, forging strong chemical bonds. The solution was
freeze-dried, yielding a structure filled with tiny pores and channels - strengthening the wood.

The resulting material is extremely strong, crush-resistant, and actively repels water. Scientists
soaked samples in water and in a strong acid bath for 30 days, finding almost no loss of strength.
Similarly-tested Balsa wood samples lost nearly 70 percent of their strength and 40 percent of
their crush resistance.

Scientists also said the material was difficult to burn. It took a while to ignite, and when it finally
did, it was extinguished right when it was removed from the flame.

Mixed with graphene, the material showed better thermal insulation than natural wood.

Scientists say the material is suitable for mass production and expect it to replace natural wood
and be applied in extreme conditions.

https://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/technology/scientists-create-water-and-fire-resistant-
wood