Kiwi Scientists Build Surfboard Using Native New Zealand Flax as Fibreglass Replacement
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A surfboard made from Native New Zealand Flax (harakeke) has been put on display at a Science New Zealand display in the
Wellington Airport.
Scientists working for BPN – a biotech joint venture between AgResearch, Crop & Food Research and Scion - created a harakeke fibre to replace fibreglass in the surfboard, which is responsible for
giving the board its strength and stiffness. BPN research is focused on creating products using renewable, natural
materials – or biomaterials – instead of petrochemicals.
BPN CEO, Dr. Claire McGowan explains that BPN is focused on contributing to the development of a bio-based economy using
natural, renewable resources like harakeke.
"BPN is looking to help set up New Zealand for a new economy based on sustainable products derived from biomaterials,"
said Dr. McGowan.
"Biomaterials like the harakeke fibre used in the surfboard may ultimately be used for a range of products including
boat cabinetry or automotive panels, or for kitchen or bathroom flooring and benchtops. Other uses for biomaterials
include cosmetics, shampoos, skin creams, and replacements for polystyrene and packaging."
The harakeke fibre surfboard was created to demonstrate that it is possible to make a water-resistant composite material
using biomaterials, and to show real-life, everyday applications of scientific research.
"Synthetics have always had an advantage over biomaterials because they can get wet, so what the scientists were trying
to do here was to crack the secret of a water-resistant biocomposite," explains Scion scientist Dr. Roger Newman.
"The natural fibre is combined with synthetic resins and foams to make a lightweight, strong composite structure that
gives the board water resistance and also a unique decorative effect, owing to the fact that harakeke fibres can be
dyed," he said. "An entirely biobased board could result from our work on biofoams and bioresins in the future."
BPN works with the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology, Science New Zealand and a range of New Zealand
export companies to develop the emerging sector of biomaterials. Science New Zealand Chief Executive, Anthony Scott says
the harakeke surfboard is a model of science collaboration in New Zealand.
"Crown Research Institutes are applying advanced thinking and application to lead the way to improving New Zealand's
long-term sustainability. In this case, they combined their expertise in wood and wool fibres to develop a new
plant-based fibre, and to create a little red surfboard that is really very green!' said Scott.
The harakeke fibre surfboard will be on display in the Wellington International Airport until the end of June.
ENDS