Ceramic wood, which is short for ceramics made from wood, is the result of a material inspired process addressing the question of the composition of contrary material properties.

Combining the technology involved in ceramics production and the properties of natural wood produces biomorphic ceramics. This extraordinary material preserves the structural makeup of plants in ceramics. Each variety of timber is different and so each of these ceramic objects is a one-off. All of the lumbers have their natural blueprint of carbon compounds in common. When subjected to great heat, these carbon structures combine with silicon to produce silicon carbide ceramic.

The combination of plant structures with ceramic properties opens up previously untapped potential for design. In biomorphic ceramics, the results of natural evolution can be used to enhance technological systems.

Ceramic Wood will be exhibited at the upcoming edition of Material Xperience 2016 as part of Materia’s independently curated exhibition of innovative new materials. You can register for a free ticket here.