Transparent wood can now replace glass

Scientists and researchers from the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm have successfully created a ”transparent” wood material that can be used instead of glass in various building applications, including windows and solar cells.

How was this possible? According to reports, the makers have done a chemical process on balsa wood that took away lignin from its cells, resulting to a change in color to white. Transparency, although not at its fullest, was achieved by adding a polymer that allows passage of about 85 percent of light.

Researchers are now studying the technology for other wood types and are optimistic that products made from transparent wood veneers will be available in the market after a few years. Transparent wood is also seen as promising for many for it has its advantages in durability and energy savings. Transparent wood windows, for example, would not break easily like fragile glass windows. Also, the fact that these can be made to let a certain amount of light pass through or be absorbed may help reduce costs in heating and lighting inside a home or building.