New treatment makes wood temporarily flexible without damaging it
(Photo: IIT)
15 September 2026 – Researchers at the Italian Institute of Technology have developed a method that temporarily makes wood flexible, allowing it to be shaped into curved forms. The treatment could provide a more sustainable alternative to conventional techniques requiring substantial heat or synthetic adhesives.
The researchers use a mixture of water and Cyrene, a solvent that can be produced from plant-derived cellulose. This mixture influences the interactions between cellulose fibres, lignin and hemicellulose within the wood. As a result, the material becomes easier to bend without significantly changing its natural internal structure.
After shaping, the wood is dried, allowing it to retain its new form. According to the researchers, its original mechanical properties are largely preserved. The material can also undergo another treatment to change its shape again.
The method has been tested on thin wooden sheets between one and five millimetres thick. Potential applications include furniture, musical instruments and interior design. Further research is needed before the technique can be applied to thicker wooden components.
