Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have discovered that adding microscopic wood nanocrystals to concrete can make the material stronger and more durable. The findings, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, could lead to the development of new construction materials that are more resistant to damage from earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters.

Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in the world, but it is also relatively brittle. This means that it can easily crack or break under stress, making it susceptible to damage from earthquakes and other natural disasters. In addition, concrete is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to climate change.

The researchers at UCLA believe that adding wood nanocrystals to concrete could help to address both of these problems. Wood nanocrystals are tiny particles of cellulose, the main component of plant cell walls. They are strong and lightweight, and they have the ability to form a network of hydrogen bonds with other molecules, which can help to improve the strength and durability of concrete.

In their study, the researchers added wood nanocrystals to concrete at a concentration of 1%. They found that this increased the strength of the concrete by 15% and its toughness by 25%. The concrete was also more resistant to cracking and damage from water.

The researchers believe that their findings could lead to the development of new construction materials that are stronger, more durable, and more sustainable than traditional concrete. These materials could be used to build buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure that are more resilient to natural disasters and have a lower carbon footprint.