Bioeconomy cluster: Resource efficient creation of value from beech wood to bio-based building materials

With a total stocking volume of about 635 million m3, beech (Fagus sylvatica) is the most abundant hardwood tree species in Germany, and in parts of Europe. Nevertheless, the material utilisation of beech wood, e.g. for use as a building material, still has a long way to go. Examples can be seen in an inadequate harvesting technology and thus time-consuming forest operations, an insufficient durability, a challenging processing and a lack of weather resistance. The Bioeconomy Cluster that combines cutting-edge applied research in interdisciplinary teams and innovative industrial companies has recently taken up these challenges. In several research projects, namely Plan C, Hiphar, Lvl, Beech Timber Concrete, Lightweight Concrete, Durapresstimber, Beechpole and Stoplafo, applicable improvements within the supply and the material use of beech wood are investigated. From the forest resource and the conversion process to building materials, base chemicals, plastics and new materials.