Eco Kirei board

The timber board alternative

Eco Kirei board is the upcoming alternative to plywood. Yet to to be widely available globally, however the more demand for this the more the industry will respond.

This article looks through the eco characteristics to use this material in your home.

Description
♦ Kirei board is made from the stalks of the Sorghum plant, a globally grown grain
♦ Boards are available as 3 foot by 6 foot engineered panels
♦ Boards are available in the following thicknesses: 10, 20 and 30mm
♦ The stalks are pressurised with heat and a non toxic adhesive
♦ Lightweight and strong
♦ A plywood alternative
♦ A distinguishable grain

Uses
♦ Wall panels, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cabinet doors, casework, worktops
♦ Suitable for residential and commercial use

Advantages
♦ Warp resistant
♦ Workable like timber
♦ Can be coated with water-based finishes

Disadvantages
♦ Overseas origin see embodied energy.

Embodied Energy
♦ Manufactured close to the plantation areas which reduces shipping and transport
♦ The production process is classed as low energy – little waste, waste water or emissions.

Source/Origin
♦ Can be grown globally

♦ Main growing region is Northern China

Renewable
♦ The stalks are a waste by-product of grain harvests

Environment & Health
♦ Stalks would otherwise be burnt or disposed of in landfill sites
♦ Using the stalks reduces emissions and waste
♦ Manufactured with a water based adhesive, formaldehyde free and has zero VOCs
♦ Paint and stains finishes can be water based, low VOCs or zero VOCs
♦ Some timber is used for bonding strips

Performance
♦ Durable

Recycled content
♦ 100% reclaimed agricultural fibre

Recyclable
♦ Yes fully

Disposal / Biodegradable
♦ 100% Biodegradable

Ethics
♦ Local farmers are able to use this waste product for a new source of revenue

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