unWOOD transforms plastic waste into durable wood alternative

19 May 2025 CW Team

unWOOD, a breakthrough innovation, is converting hard-to-recycle plastic waste into a durable alternative to natural wood. Developed through a proprietary process called Intelligent Compounding, unWOOD uses a Macro Molecular Fiber Matrix (MMFM) structure to replicate the strength, look, and feel of hardwood—without the environmental cost.

Conceptualised by Dr Babu Padmanabhan, the material addresses key flaws in traditional plastic recycling by consuming minimal energy, using zero water, and generating no microplastics. “Any application that introduces plastics into areas where it cannot be recovered and recycled is a no-go for us,” he says.

Each kilogram of unWOOD repurposes 500 grams of plastic waste and helps preserve fully matured trees. The company’s circular production model ensures products like school benches and outdoor furniture can be recycled repeatedly.

Through its “Benches for Change” CSR initiative, unWOOD works with NGOs to provide school furniture made from waste plastic. “This focus on design reduces transportation costs, expands access to remote locations, and enhances the overall customer experience,” adds CEO Vishal Mehta.

unWOOD is now scaling across public infrastructure and design sectors.

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