Bend it, shape it, anyway you want it....
The thesis of Maija Liiri, who is about to graduate as a Master of Science at Finland's Aalto University, was presented at Masters of Aalto event. In her thesis, Maija Liiri examines the properties of a new plywood product, which is claimed to be the most revolutionary innovation in the plywood industry for 30 years.
The new product, UPM Grada, which has been designed for such uses as furniture industry, is like ordinary plywood but easier to shape. The veneers have been put together using a new type of glue joint, which means that when heated the product can be bent into desired shapes. The new product is also more resistant to moisture than ordinary plywood.
UPM Grada plywood has already been used in chairs made by Isku. According to UPM, the positive publicity resulting from Maija’s thesis has also prompted other contacts requesting more information about the product.
A few moments thought also reveal a whole range of potential applications in interestingly shaped interior finishes too.
For more information, check the Aalto University Scholl of Chemical Engineering site