Researchers in Orono recently received a $225,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to continue their work on a foam-like insulation material that is made from wood fiber. Current products available in the insulation market are made from petroleum – even “eco-friendly” insulations are made from polystyrene. So creating a biobased insulation – especially from Maine wood fiber, is a huge step in the right direction.

This new start-up company, called Revolution Research, is exploring other applications for the material as well, including packaging or in the electronics industry.