Sonowood: The Tropical Wood Substitute
Tropical wood is commonly used in the production of musical instruments due to its density and hardness. This common appeal has increased the endangerment rate and caused stricter government regulations. In order to achieve better sustainability Zürich-based manufacturer, Swiss Wood Solutions, has created an alternative that not only mimics the preferred properties of tropical woods but in some cases achieves even better results.
How it Works
Sonowood is made using a proprietary process that involves levels of drying, soaking, and heating with an extremely dense press. The process inserts a polymer into the cellular walls of wood to improve its water-repellency and stability. It can be used on a variety of domestic woods such as spruce, walnut, and maple as an alternative to endangered wood such as ebony. This technology allows for wood to achieve its potential as a high-tech component, reaching levels of large-scale engineering material applications.
The new modified wood-based material has increased and adjustable densities ranging from 143 lb/ft2 (700 kg/m2) to 266 lb/ft2 (1,300 kg/m2). Other adjustable properties include Brinell hardness and color. There are three different colors available ranging from very light to very dark including Swiss Ebony Maple, Gernadilla, and Macassar Ebony. The material can be processed using traditional woodworking tools.
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