Lignia modified wood is on a steep growth trajectory, according to Paul Duncan, director of Lignia manufacturer Fibre7.
Lignia is the result of the New Zealand developed method of densification in which plantation-grown radiata pine is put through a process similar to pressure preservative treatment, where an amino compound is impregnated into the wood. This results in increased density and hardness and improved stability and strength. It also adds colour through the timber.
Markets for Lignia, which initially was aimed at indoor applications such as flooring, worktops and door lippings, and LigniaXD, which is suitable for exterior applications, have continued to grow in the UK, Denmark, Germany, Japan, Australia and the US, said Mr Duncan.
"Globally there is recognition that modified timbers represent a very real alternative to tropical and premium hardwoods and because Lignia and LigniaXD have colour, weight, hardness and strength locked into the core, it not only performs well, but it looks beautiful too."
The second quarter of 2014 has seen a very strong order book and forecasts for this year and next are positive, he added.
Production of Lignia outside of New Zealand is now very much on the cards, with a licensing programme in development in North America.
"The licensing programme in North America continues to gather pace, with LigniaXD being shipped to seed the market in advance of local manufacture," said Mr Duncan.
Applications include super yacht decking where the colour and performance of LigniaXD is proving popular and this is seen as one of the growth areas, he added.
"There is also a focus on high volume structural and joinery applications and projected volumes over the next five years are significant – and, importantly, achievable using timber sourced from North America," said Mr Duncan.
Europe is also to have its own Lignia production plant this year, the exact location and details of which will be announced soon.
This facility will process local European timber which, according to Mr Duncan, has already been identified and tested. In addition to production there will also be timber held in stock to enable timely deliveries and greater flexibility within the market.
Product development has continued apace, too, with the launch of a new exterior variant, LigniaXD Paint Grade.
"This delivers the properties expected of our timber but to reduce costs it isn’t coloured and is used with a paint finish," said Mr Duncan, adding that windows using this material are already available in the UK.
While sales have typically been associated with "elite" manufacturers using Lignia to create premium – possibly even niche – products, the net is now being cast wider.
"Areas have been identified where high volumes of timber can be used in structural applications where the market is looking for smaller, yet stronger sections of material," said Mr Duncan. "A programme is ongoing in North America and is expected to roll out in Europe this year."
Opportunities are also developing in Japan where high-performance materials are required to meet new building codes. In addition to trading in the region, Fibre7 has been testing species grown in Japan for their suitability for "upgrading". Initial results are "positive", said Mr Duncan.
