Japanese companies invest in nanocellulose

5 August 2014

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Up to100 companies from various sectors of the Japanese economy are collaborating to advance the production and use of nanocellulose.

Nanocellulose, made of wood fibres and manufactured primarily from wood chips, is five times stronger than steel and only 20% of the weight. Participants include paper manufacturers, automakers, and chemical companies.

These organisations intend to use nanocellulose for auto parts, construction materials, and even artificial blood vessels.

As nanocellulose is derived from plants, it is believed to be more eco-friendly than many conventional materials.

Japan's rivals in nanocellulose development include the U.S. and Canada.