Transparent Wood by Kaia Stonebrook

Transparent Wood explores the revolutionary potential of a novel bio-based composite, poised to transform sustainable construction and various advanced material applications. This technology addresses the limitations of conventional materials like glass and steel, which are either brittle or contribute significantly to carbon emissions. The book reveals how removing lignin, the substance that gives wood its color, and replacing it with polymers can create a material stronger than traditional wood while allowing light to pass through.

The book details various methods of delignification, including chemical and emerging bio-based techniques, to enhance the strength and durability of the wood. It meticulously presents data from material science testing, showcasing the enhanced properties of transparent wood compared to conventional materials.

Structured to guide the reader through the evolution of this exciting technology, the book progresses from the basic concepts of wood science and transparency principles to the diverse applications of transparent wood in architecture, solar cells, and sustainable development.