BarkBuild is one of the funded project from ForestValue 2021 Joint Call currently in the middle of their research.
BarkBuild is proud to announce the development of groundbreaking, functional wood coating systems that utilize industrially relevant components derived from softwood and hardwood bark. These innovative coatings, tailored for both outdoor protection and air remediation, are setting new standards in sustainable wood treatment technologies.
100% Bark-Based Water-Resistant Coating for Outdoor Applications
One of BarkBuild’s key innovations is a water-resistant wood coating specifically designed for protecting wood in outdoor environments. This coating is composed entirely of bark components, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for wood protection (Figure 1). The development of this coating has been thoroughly documented, and a scientific manuscript detailing the results is currently in preparation.
Figure 1. Fully bark-based wood coating for outdoor applications.
Active Coating for Air Remediation
In addition to the water-resistant coating, BarkBuild has also developed an active coating that contributes to air purification. This innovative solution repurposes unused bark residues by carbonizing them and combining them with photocatalysts. The resulting coating is applied to wood surfaces, where it actively adsorbs harmful airborne contaminants, such as formaldehyde, and converts them into harmless byproducts like carbon dioxide (CO2) and moisture. This active coating represents a significant advancement in both wood treatment and environmental remediation.
Showcasing Innovations at ISWST 2024
BarkBuild’s achievements were prominently displayed at the 2024 International Society of Wood Science and Technology (ISWST) convention, held in June 2024 at InnoRenew in Slovenia. Attendees had the opportunity to view demo materials showcasing the results of BarkBuild’s research and development efforts (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Demo materials based on BarkBuild’s results on display at InnoRenew, Slovenia.
BarkBuild continues to push the boundaries of wood science and sustainable materials, and these new bark-based coatings are poised to make a significant impact in the industry. Keep an eye out for further developments and publications from BarkBuild as they continue to innovate in the field of wood coating technologies.