In recent years, steel technology has experimented with new materials and production techniques that focus on quality and resistance, as well as an environmental component.
Nanocellulose, discovered in 1980, is plant-based and is produced in such a way as to be dismantled and reconstructed in structures that are similar to crystal fibres, on a very small scale. When it is completely delaminated, nanocellulose is constructed of long microfibers and its appearance is that of transparent, viscous gel. The production process begins with a fibrous paste that undergoes a high pressure homogenization, leaving it free of impurities. It is then processed to obtain cellulose fibre. The final product, nanocellulose, is in some ways reminiscent of fibre glass or Kevlar. Mouldable, the product is known for its strength, which is eight times greater when under tension than that of steel. What’s more, it is also impermeable to gases and when mixed with foam, is incredibly absorbent.