Fungi which normally decay wood can effectively break down low density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic instead - and do so best in the absence of wood

Researchers developed a novel processing technique to create super-strong, lightweight wood that surpasses natural wood's mechanical properties. The resulting self-densified wood boasts exceptional tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact toughness.

The new CABI-published book Planet Fungi: A Photographer's Foray is a unique exploration of fungal biology and ecological significance, featuring hundreds of beautiful images captured in sharp focus. The book aims to educate and inspire researchers and amateur mycologists alike, shedding light on the intricate world of fungi.

A team from Tsinghua University has shattered the paradigm of traditional waveguide QED by achieving a total decay rate below γ₀ through energy quantum confinement effect. This mechanism, operating in non-Markovian regime, dynamically traps energy quanta within the waveguide, converting energy loss into temporary storage.

Research at Schöningen reveals sophisticated woodworking techniques used by early humans to process spruce and pine wood. The findings demonstrate the importance of wood as a raw material in human evolution, with evidence of extensive processing and recycling.

Researchers at UMD developed a method to produce high-performance, structural wood without chemicals or energy-intensive processing. The engineered wood can resist deterioration, storing carbon for longer periods and reducing emissions.

Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed two techniques to join wood with metals and polymer composites without adhesives or screws. The AddJoining technique uses 3D printing to create strong joints, while the Ultrasonic Joining method employs high-frequency vibration to melt polymer into wood pores. These methods show pr...