Scientists have created an artificial wood that is reportedly as strong as wood, but lacks its traditional weaknesses: fire and water.

 

The synthetic material, developed by researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei, was created by both extreme heat and freeze-drying. The resin was heated to temperatures as high as 400 degrees Fahrenheit, forging strong chemical bonds. The solution was freeze-dried, yielding a structure filled with tiny pores and channels - strengthening the wood.

 

The resulting material is extremely strong, crush-resistant, and actively repels water. Scientists soaked samples in water and in a strong acid bath for 30 days, finding almost no loss of strength. Similarly-tested Balsa wood samples lost nearly 70 percent of their strength and 40 percent of their crush resistance.

 

Scientists also said the material was difficult to burn. It took a while to ignite, and when it finally did, it was extinguished right when it was removed from the flame.