Microwave Modified Timber: Collaborative Research Integrating Product Design for New Materials Development

Abstract

The process of new materials development traditionally employs science and engineering based inquiry in the initial phases. This paper explores how product design can help determine the feasibility of new materials for commercial application earlier and provide benefits of reduced timeframes, cost and risk factors. It discusses a case study of new materials development based on Microwave Modified Timber Technology, set in the context of an Australian Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) for Wood Innovations. The study supports benefits in early integration of product design research into new materials development processes.