Story perspectives

InventWood Launches Superwood: Revolutionary Stronger, Lighter Alternative to Steel

10/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

InventWood, a Maryland startup, launched Superwood, claimed to be up to ten times stronger than steel by weight and six times lighter.
Professor Liangbing Hu developed Superwood through chemical treatment and compression to increase strength and density, and it resists pests, fungi, and fire.
InventWood aims to scale production after raising about $50 million, with decking and cladding as initial applications, while adoption faces conservative practices and regulatory hurdles.

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Story summary

InventWood, a Maryland startup, launched Superwood, claimed to be up to ten times stronger than steel by weight and six times lighter.
Professor Liangbing Hu developed Superwood through chemical treatment and compression to increase strength and density, and it resists pests, fungi, and fire.
InventWood aims to scale production after raising about $50 million, with decking and cladding as initial applications, while adoption faces conservative practices and regulatory hurdles.