SEA-BOARD — A Marine-Derived Structural Panel from Aligned and Densified Seaweed Cellulose Nanofibers

Patent Status

Patent Pending

Brief Description

The innovation, developed by UC Berkeley researchers, addresses the need for sustainable, high-strength structural panels derived from readily available, non-traditional biopolymer sources, presenting an opportunity to mitigate reliance on wood or petroleum-based materials. Compared to conventional wood composites or other bioplastics, SEA-BOARD offers superior mechanical properties, including high strength and stiffness, while leveraging an abundant and rapidly renewable marine resource, positioning it as a unique and environmentally conscious alternative for construction and manufacturing.

Suggested uses

Structural materials for construction, furniture, and interior design.
High-performance packaging and specialized containers.
Automotive or aerospace interior components requiring lightweight and strong panels.
Consumer electronics casings and durable goods.

Advantages

Utilizes marine-derived polysaccharides (seaweed), a globally abundant and rapidly renewable resource.
Offers superior mechanical properties (high strength and stiffness) compared to many conventional wood composites.
Provides an eco-friendly, bio-based alternative to materials derived from forests or fossil fuels.

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