Researchers Created a Computer Chip Made Almost Entirely of Wood
Katherine Pendrill — June 2, 2015 — Eco
References: nature & treehugger
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison just unveiled a design for a series of biodegradable computer chips that are made almost entirely of wood. There is currently an immense need for a more sustainable way of manufacturing computer chips due to the staggering amount of electronic waste that is accumulating each year. A biodegradable chip is therefore a clever new way of trying to cut back on electronic waste.
Researchers designed the new part by replacing the support layer of the computer chip with a cellulose nanofibril material that is made of wood. Not only does the material make the computer chip stronger and more flexible, but cellulose nanofibril is also completely biodegradable. The researchers argue that once the chips have expended their use, they will be safe enough to be used as a form of natural fertilizer.
Testing also shows that these biodegradable computer chips perform just as well as other computer parts, making them a practical, yet environmentally friendly option for consumers.
Researchers designed the new part by replacing the support layer of the computer chip with a cellulose nanofibril material that is made of wood. Not only does the material make the computer chip stronger and more flexible, but cellulose nanofibril is also completely biodegradable. The researchers argue that once the chips have expended their use, they will be safe enough to be used as a form of natural fertilizer.
Testing also shows that these biodegradable computer chips perform just as well as other computer parts, making them a practical, yet environmentally friendly option for consumers.
Trend Themes
1. Biodegradable Computer Chips - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the electronics industry by developing sustainable and eco-friendly computer chips made from biodegradable materials.
2. Sustainable Manufacturing - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the manufacturing industry by creating more sustainable processes and materials for electronic devices, reducing electronic waste.
3. Circular Economy - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the waste management industry by promoting the reuse and recycling of biodegradable computer chips as natural fertilizers, contributing to a circular economy.
Industry Implications
1. Electronics Industry - Opportunity for innovation in the electronics industry by incorporating biodegradable computer chips into products, catering to eco-conscious consumers.
2. Manufacturing Industry - Opportunity for innovation in the manufacturing industry by adopting sustainable practices and materials for the production of electronic devices, reducing environmental impact.
3. Waste Management Industry - Opportunity for innovation in the waste management industry by developing processes to effectively collect and recycle biodegradable computer chips, contributing to a circular economy.
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