Overview:
This organization seeks a substitute for wood boards commonly used in construction, such as plywood or OSB, with comparable or improved physical and mechanical properties. Materials should be recyclable or have clear end-of-life sustainability considerations for reduced harm.
Solutions will have:
- Delivered cost competitive to traditional building materials
- Capability to manufacture 1/8” – 1/4” thickness
- Capability to manufacture minimum 4’ wide panels
- Nailable (can be nailed into)
- Stiffness/rigidity similar to OSB
- Density/weight Target: comparable to OSB or lighter, denser/heavier might be considered depending on other properties
- Weather resistant, equal to or better than OSB
- Possibility of fire resistance or awareness of suitable treatment
Possible Solution Areas:
Polymers, natural materials (ie bamboo, hemp, straw), wood-plastic composites (WPC), fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP), novel alternatives
Desired outcome of the solution:
Identify industrial-scale suppliers or those with a clear route to scalability.
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