Kebony
[Ke-bo-ny] [botanical: modified conifer (Pinus radiata)] [trade name: Kebony (EU, US, NO)]
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Origin |
FSC-certified radiata pine from New Zealand; modification in Norway and Belgium |
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Raw density |
approx. 640-670 kg/m³ |
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Durability class |
Class 1-2 (modified) |
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Radial shrinkage |
approx. 3 % |
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Tangential shrinkage |
4-6 % |
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Wood color |
Dark brown, later silver-grey |
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Wood structure |
Compacted cell walls, homogeneous, fine to medium |
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Use |
Terraces, facades, furniture, outdoor areas |
Origin of the wood
Kebony mainly uses wood from the pine species Pinus radiata. This originally comes from California and Mexico, but has been grown extensively in New Zealand for many decades. From there, the wood is transported to Norway or Belgium, where it is modified before being marketed.
Sustainability aspects
Radiata pine plantations are not natural forests and have a lower level of biodiversity. In addition, the long transportation route from New Zealand to Europe has a significant impact on the CO₂ footprint footprint. The kebony process itself also requires a comparatively large amount of energy, especially when curing and drying the treated wood.
Modification and properties
In the Kebony process, furfuryl alcohol is introduced into the wood under pressure and heat. The result is a more durable and dimensionally stable material. Nevertheless, Kebony remains noticeably softer and lighter than very dense tropical woods such as cumaru or Ipewhich is why dents or scratches are more likely to occur in practice – from furniture or dog claws, for example.
More detailed information on the environmental impact of the chemical process and the substances used can be found in the manufacturer’s sustainability report, although the production and life cycle assessment of the furfuryl alcohol used in particular continues to be the subject of debate among experts.
Sources: Kebony Sustainability Report 2023, VestreSustainability
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