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[The CIVIS Newsroom ](https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom) 2. SU researchers revolutionise construction by turning tree bark into high-performance coating SU researchers revolutionise construction by turning tree bark into high-performance coating ============================================================================================ 21 november 2024 Researchers at Stockholm University have unveiled a fully bio-based wood coating system that could transform the construction industry by providing a sustainable alternative to fossil-based synthetic coatings. Inspired by the protective functions of tree bark, this innovative solution utilises components sourced from birch and spruce bark. ![](/storage/files/image_5.jpg)Researchers demonstrating the water resistance of the wood. Photo © Matilda Andersson/SUThe research, published in the journal Materials Horizons, aligns with Europe's commitment to improving resource efficiency in the bio-based sector. The new coating combines suberinic acids from birch bark and polyphenols from spruce bark, forming a waterborne suspension that is both safe and easy to apply to wood surfaces. > *Polyphenols play a dual role in stabilising water-insoluble suberinic acids while also acting as nanofillers to enhance the coating’s mechanical properties. When applied to spruce wood panels, the bio-based coating exhibited impressive water resistance, outperforming conventional synthetic coatings even after prolonged water exposure",* explains Fengyang Wang, the publication´s first author. Mika Sipponen, the project supervisor, highlights that tree bark, often burned for energy, can instead be a valuable resource for wood protection. This innovation addresses a crucial need in the construction sector, where traditional wood coatings frequently contain hazardous compounds and rely on fossil-derived chemicals. The new coating provides an eco-friendly alternative without sacrificing performance. > *Our approach not only reduces the carbon footprint of construction materials but also creates a circular, sustainable solution in wood processing,"* Sipponen explains. Collaboration for a greener future ----------------------------------- Although the materials' chemistry was developed at Stockholm University, the research team collaborated across the entire value chain – from bark supply to processing and performance testing. *"While the bark is locally available in large quantities, it’s crucial to work with various experts", emphasises researcher* Ievgen Pylypchuk. The breakthrough supports the growing demand for renewable and sustainable materials in modern building practices, positioning wood as a more environmentally responsible construction material, reducing the environmental impact of protective coatings. ### Latest Highlights: [*WWF recognizes UNIL’s achievements towards sustainability* ](https://civis.eu/en/get-informed/news/wwf-recognizes-unil-s-achievements-towards-sustainability) [*World-renowned ethologist and activist Dr. Jane Goodall gives inspiring lecture at PLUS*](https://civis.eu/en/get-informed/news/dr-jane-goodall-inspires-at-the-plus) [*University of Bucharest Tops Rankings for Highest-Paid Graduates in Romania*](https://civis.eu/en/get-informed/news/university-of-bucharest-tops-rankings-for-highest-paid-graduates-in-romania) [*25 refugee students from Ukraine succeed 8-month training at UAM*](https://civis.eu/en/get-informed/news/25-refugee-students-ukraine-succeed-8-month-training-uam) [*New paintings and significant details uncovered in the Egyptian temple of Esna*](https://civis.eu/en/get-informed/news/new-paintings-and-details-uncovered-in-the-egyptian-temple-of-esna) Related news ------------ - [ ![](https://civis.eu/storage/files/greencarb7-800x600.jpg?token=712f0b091be488273795e6069fdecb4c)Tracing carbon in Greenland’s melting fjords CIVIS Highlights 28 september 2026 ](https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom/tracing-carbon-in-greenland-s-melting-fjords) - [ ![](https://civis.eu/storage/files/tr2-800x600.jpg?token=7ef6de17ebf4f78056295caacae897a5)TRACEE Study programmes 17 september 2026 ](https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom/tracee) - [ ![](https://civis.eu/storage/files/website-horizontal-photos-800x600.jpg?token=d97cb41058d3762a3bf0b56c2f5ddbd2)Ancient genomes reveal the unique history of the extinct cave lion CIVIS Highlights 15 juni 2026 ](https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom/ancient-genomes-reveal-the-unique-history-of-the-extinct-cave-lion) [ Upptäck alla våra berättelser ](https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom) [ Public engagement with research explored by CIVIS Connect ](%20https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom/the-theme-of-public-engagement-with-research-explored-within-the-first-edition-of-civis-connect%20) [ The University of Glasgow joins global slavery research project ](%20https://civis.eu/sv/the-civis-newsroom/the-university-of-glasgow-joins-global-slavery-research-project%20) ![CIVIS – Europe’s Civic University Alliance](https://civis.eu/build/assets/civis-CCpvK1nT.svg) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Europe’s Civic University Alliance ![Co-funded by the European Union](https://civis.eu/build/assets/co-funded-by-the-european-union-DSKLW1us.png)Views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). 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