TECHNOLOGY
DISCOVER A SWEDISH INNOVATION INSPIRED BY NATURE
OrganoWood® has employed some of nature’s own tricks to develop lasting, effective and unique wood protection that is entirely non-toxic. Inspiration was taken from the natural fossilisation process whereby the wood is mineralised and coverted into a fossil – a process that normally takes thousands of years.
OrganoWood® technology mimics the natural fossilisation process. Instead of impregnating wood with fungicides, silicon polymers are coupled to the wood fibres creating a physical barrier against wood destroying organisms and an efficient flame protection. Superhydrophic molecules are then attached to the wood fibre surface causing water droplets to drip quickly off the wood.
FOSSILISATION
During fossilisation natural substances such as calcium and silicon compounds penetrate into the wood fibres and transforms them into stone. Natural plant substances are used as organic catalysts, silicon compounds are attached to the wood fibres, which mimic and accelerate the natural process of fossilisation. Wood treated with OrganoWood® is therefore approx. 10% fossil and 90% wood. The fossilisation occurs primarily on the surface of the wood encapsulating the wood fibres, making them inaccessible for rot fungus. Hence, the fungi do not die as in the case of using traditional wood preservatives containing biocides. Instead, a new physical barrier is created rendering it impossible for fungi to eat the fibres. As fossils (silicon) are also non-combustible, effective flame retardant properties are also achieved with this treatment.
SUPERHYDROPHIC SURFACE
Imagine a surface that drops of water simply bounce off. This is what chemists call a superhydrophobic surface. Certain plants have such surfaces naturally to protect them against the weather and wind. Inspired by the superhydrophobic leaves of the lotus flower, we have developed a dirt and water-repellent technology that we use for OrganoWood® 02. Protection for the surface treatment of wood. The treatment gives the timber superhydrophobic properties that keep down the surface moisture content of the timber, which is important in reducing the risk of surface growth and mould attack. It also makes it more difficult for dirt particles to stick, which in turn makes the wood easier to keep clean. The fact that the timber is also water-repellent cuts the risk of splitting.
EFFECTIVE PROTECTION WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
The complete product range within the OrganoWood® system are ecologically sustainable according to FSC® (FSC-C120532) and PEFC™ (05-35-168). The products have been developed without the use of biocides, solvents and heavy metals. Therefore, eluding the need to be recycled as environmentally harmful waste.
OrganoWood® is proud to have achieved the highest eco-classification in Sweden from Sunda Hus and Byggvarubedömningen.
THE WOOD AGES NATURALLY AND BEAUTIFULLY
The timber will age as normal timber and will become silver grey over time. How fast this greying process takes may vary greatly where it has been placed, facing which direction and how exposed it is directly to the weather. Generally speaking the sapwood will become grey faster than the heartwood due its increased natural absorption of moisture and water. In order to enjoy a more even greying process and decrease the risk of surface fibre loss it is recommended to treat the timber with OrganoWood® 02. Repellent that decreases the absorption of moisture and water in the sapwood thus achieving a more consistent and uniform appearance.