A multilayer transparent wood prepared by laminating two kinds of tree species

Abstract

AbstractTransparent wood (TW) is a new material with a certain light transmission performance, which can be widely used as new energy‐saving material. However, the application and development of TW are limited by material and thickness. In this work, the representative species of softwood and hardwood were selected for lamination. After chemical treatment, the lignin in natural wood was removed, and then the epoxy resin with a similar refractive index to the cell wall was impregnated in vacuum. By using the viscosity of epoxy resin itself, the single‐layer materials could be effectively laminated together to prepare a new type of multilayer transparent wood (MLTW). By testing the optical properties, mechanical properties. and surface properties of MLTW materials, we found that the optical transmittance and mechanical properties can be effectively controlled and selected through the selection of materials and assembly methods. Besides, the surface properties of MLTW are mainly related to its surface material. In short, MLTW is a new composite material prepared by simple lamination at the macro level. The properties of the material can be controlled through the selection of single‐layer materials and assembly methods. Compared with the traditional TW, MLTW has better performance regulation ability.