BUILD’EM: A lignin engineered wood resin that’s formaldehyde-free, cost competitive, and low carbon

Abstract: Formaldehyde in wood resins is considered a carcinogen and leads to a loss of about 1 million years of life annually. Despite this and increased regulations, it still dominates the market due to its low cost and great performance. Lignin is a byproduct of pulp and paper and many biofuel and biochemical processes. About 50 million tons of lignin are produced per year, ~98% of which is burned as low-value fuel. BUILD’EM seeks to solve both problems by replacing formaldehyde resins in wood products with a lignin-based resin, named BUILD’EM. Initial results indicate BUILD’EM is cost competitive, strength-competitive, water resistant, 50 to 150% lower carbon, similar hot-press times, and a drop-in replacement to avoid new capital equipment. BUILD’EM is a new technology seeking Seed/Angel Funding.