Transparent wood can be prepared by removal of lignin and filling of wood porosity by a polymer of suitable refractive index. The resulting material is bio-based, of comparably low cost and has interesting properties by itself, such as anisotropy, high optical transmittance, haze, excellent mechanical properties, low thermal conductivity etc. In addition, the optical function of the material can be enhanced by addition of molecular scale organic dyes, nanoscale quantum dots or other additives extending the range of properties. Preparation strategies for transparent wood materials will be discussed. Challenges include controlling optical characteristics, avoiding defects, facilitating processing etc. This becomes even more difficult as additives are included. Considerations with respect to selection of material components, nano-structural control and the effect of wood structure on optical properties will be discussed. The possibilities to predict thickness effects on optical properties are probed. Theoretical considerations need to be based on a physical reality corresponding to the structure of the wood scaffold, as well as potential defects arising from the preparation method.<br/>         The mechanical properties of transparent wood are to a large extent controlled by the wood scaffold. It is characterized by anisotropy of moduli and strengths. Toughness is also important, since alternative materials such as glass tend to be brittle. As wood is modified by a polymer, the toughness properties are improved, and this will be analyzed.<br/>         In the context of applications, the possibility to utilize cold luminescence is demonstrated. Also, lasing effects are demonstrated using a combination of organic dyes and the wave-guiding effect from the wood cells. <br/>

Modification of transparent wood for photonics functions

255th National Meeting (2018)

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