Transparent Wood in Sustainable Urban Architecture: Advancing Energy Efficiency and Smart City Integration

Abstract

Transparent wood combines glass-like transparency with wood’s sustainability and strength, derived from fast-growing species like balsa or birch through delignification and polymer impregnation. This innovative material exhibits low thermal conductivity, high durability, and a reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional glass and concrete, positioning it as a promising solution for energy-efficient urban architecture. Current small-scale applications include solar cells and prototype structures, while research explores flame-retardant coatings and enhanced properties. However, environmental impacts and scalability challenges remain understudied, necessitating a comprehensive assessment to unlock its potential as a sustainable material for climate-resilient architecture.