Bio-inspired fire retardant wood coatings based on microfibrillated cellulose

FireCellCoat is a research project selected for funding by the Bio Economy in the North from the first call for project proposals. The aim of the FireCellCoat project is to develop a bio-based, wood coating, resistant to fire, using innovative routes and novel materials. The concept draws inspiration from the Canarian pine bark, which can withstand wildfires, leaving the tree unharmed.
FireCellCoat develops bio-inspired, fire resistant wood coatings based on high consistency microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) that protects wood-based building products in interior and exterior applications. The coatings potentially have lower environmental impacts and lower or equal life cycle costs compared to conventional fire resistant coatings. Additionally, they fulfill the technical requirements for interior wall paints and exterior wood coatings.
FireCellCoat’s approach to construct a novel fire-resistant structure draws inspiration from Canary pine bark architecture and chemistry – nature’s outstanding solution against fire. By designing a similar type of macro-scaled multilayer structure we will develop a wood coating that delays ignition and fire propagation. To achieve this, MFC is used in combination with inorganic components. This is complemented by a chemical approach involving copolymerization techniques to protect the fire-retardant material against leaching from the coatings. The coating can be applied by spray or brush and is well suited for improving the fire properties of wood-based materials as it reduces the access of oxygen to the surface, thus significantly inhibiting combustion.

FireCellCoat provides a novel approach for durable, high-performance fire-retardant materials based on sustainable resources.