Fast-growing wood species from sustainably managed, certified forests go through a patented process called platonising. Due to this process of hydro-thermal modification, the wood is many times more stable and requires less maintenance than other types of wood and has the properties of hardwood.
Platowood has the same properties as hardwood, while using durable, fast-growing wood species.
Made from
Platowood uses fast-growing wood species from sustainably managed forests:
- Spruce from FSC-certified forests in Northern Europe;
- Poplar from FSC-certified forests in Europe;
- Fraké, a fast-growing wood species, from responsibly managed forests with OLB certificate in West Africa.
Production process
- In the factory in Arnhem, the untreated wood is preserved by means of hydro-thermal modification (platonization).
- Platonizing consists of three steps: cooking, drying and baking.Only water and steam are used for this.
- Due to the relatively low temperatures, more stable molecular compounds are formed.
- The wood absorbs less moisture, which reduces shrinkage and swelling. Later mold formation is also prevented because sugars are broken down naturally.
Application
Platowood offers three types of wood: Fraké, Poplar and Spruce. Platowood is mainly used for roofing and façade cladding, window and door frames, in the interior, as sun protection, in the garden and for sound barriers. The wood is often applied untreated and then weathers into a silvery tint. The wood can also be finished, for example in a RAL color or with an oil or stain on a linseed basis.
Environmental impact
Platowood strives for the lowest possible impact on the environment.
- Wood comes from sustainably managed forests.
- The way in which the production process is set up and how they deal with residual waste and recycling.
- Approximately 60% more CO2 is stored in Platowood’s products than is emitted (including during the process, purchased energy and transport).
- The steam for platonising comes from a nearby power station for which steam is a residual product. The small part of Platowood’s residual wood is converted into new energy by this power station.
- In addition, Platowood generates its own green electricity with solar panels.
- Because there are no chemical add-ons, the wood can easily be reused again.
Good to know
- Untreated, Platowood has a lifespan of at least 50 years. In those 50 years a new tree can grow.
- Fraké frame wood has a burglary resistance that is many times better than other modified wood types and it is comparable to Meranti.
Growth
In april 2021, Platowood launched a design competition for the façade cladding of their new office building. Various innovative ideas emerged for the application of wood. This ranges from material innovations to new ways of mounting. They want to look into these ideas together with the designers. In addition, a collective of designers is designing façade panels with the residual material. This will be an optimally circular and aesthetic product with a lot of potential.
Health
Platowood has a very good thermal insulation value. The good insulation value ensures lower energy costs.