Accsys Technologies Introduce Accoya Alder - 10/04/2012 Visit website >>
Release type: Products
Red Alder Becomes Accoya Alder Through Accsys’ Proprietary Process. Accsys Technologies is now proud to offer new species red alder as part of its line of modified-wood products. Like the original, award-winning Accoya wood, Accoya Alder undergoes a proprietary modification process that improves its durability, hardness, water absorption and dimensional stability, all whilst retaining its natural strength and beauty.
Alder boasts a fine grain and a red hue. It has a clean and attractive look suitable for construction of interior doors, cabinetry, flooring and mouldings. By applying its patented acetylation technology, Accsys has expanded the opportunities for Alder to exterior applications, including siding, decking and exterior doors, while still maintaining the species’ aesthetic qualities.
Accoya wood’s acetylation technology alters the wood’s reaction with water by permanently replacing the molecules that bond with water with more stable acetyl groups. Acetyl groups are naturally present in all wood species, which means that nothing toxic is added. The process protects wood from rotting by making it "inedible" to most micro-organisms and fungi.
Though the acetylation process has been studied by scientists for more than 75 years, Accsys was the first company to make the technology commercially successful. Alder has been introduced after several years of research and development. Material testing and prototype trials including doors, windows, flooring, outdoor furniture and boat docks have all taken place. Accoya Alder offers the same performance properties as original Accoya, including a European durability class 1 rating of EN 113:199 in use classes 1-4.
“Since its introduction, Accoya wood has graced the exteriors of innovative residential, commercial, and government projects around the world. It provides a stunning visual effect along with the durability to withstand even the harshest environments,” said John Alexander, Head of Product Development at Accsys Technologies. “The addition of Alder expands specifiers’ design options for the exterior while retaining long-term performance benefits.”
David Venables, European director of the American Hardwood Export Council said, “The launch of Accoya Alder is a very exciting development for the wood trade. American hardwoods are highly available and increasingly fashionable for interior applications. The improved durability provided by the wood modification process enhances exterior performance and gives specifiers a wider choice of natural sustainable and high performing products. This is a validation of the opportunities for American hardwoods in the field of wood modification and we are keen to see continued innovation and application of this technology on American Hardwoods”.
The Accoya product line carries a 50-year above-ground and 25-year below-ground warranty against rot and decay. The wood is sourced from FSC- and PEFC-certified forests and has achieved Cradle to Cradle Gold certification.
Accoya Alder will be available throughout Europe, North America and through a network of quality timber distributors. For more information about Accoya wood, please visit the website.