In the last decade deforestation has become a global problem, affecting not only the countries whose forests have been destroyed by unregulated commercial logging of tropical wood species but the world at large, since the rainforests are the „lungs and the immune system“ of our planet.
The norwegian company Kebony has found a solution to this problem, by developing an environmentally friendly way to make softwood as hard and as durable as tropical wood. The patented process called Kebonization uses a liquid derived from agricultural bio-waste to impregnate the softwood cells of fast growing, eco-sustainable wood species such as Scots Pine, Radiata, Southern Yellow Pine or Maple. The vaacum-impregnated wood is then heated to achieve polymerization and a permanent transformation of the cellular structure. As a result the kebonized wood becomes harder, more durable and more resistant to weathering. Kebony wood golden brown color naturally turns silver-grey on outdoor exposure. Unless a constant brown color appearance is desired (in which case Kebony must be regularly painted), Kebony requires no maintenance, except ordinary cleaning. In comparison with thermo-treated wood, which becomes weaker and more brittle and fragile (reduced bending strenght) after treatment, kebonized wood becomes stiffer and more resilient. While it is common for thermo treated wood to crack and splinter very easily when cut or when screws are inserted, Kebony almost never does.
Kebony is available in planks of various sizes for decks and terraces or facade cladding. It is also available in pre-formed pieces for window sills, steps and roof.
Kebony wood is available in two grades, Clear and Character. Clear contains only sapwood and becomes therefore fully „kebonized“; this gives Clear a superior density and hardness in respect to Kebony Character and also a smooth and even look. Character can contain also parts of heartwood, which can not be entirely „kebonized“, therefore it has a lower density and hardness than Clear and a more lively and rustic appearance, which can include the presence of knots.
Projects with Kebony:
