Scientists Build Surfboard Using Native New Zealand Flax

Scientists Build Surfboard Using Native New Zealand Flax asFibreglass Replacement BPN ( Biopolymer Network Limited), a biotech joint venture betweenAgResearch, Crop & Food Research and Scion, will unveil asurfboard made from Native New Zealand Flax today at a Science NewZealand display in the Wellington Airport. BPN research is focused on creating products using renewable,natural materials – or biomaterials – instead ofpetrochemicals. Scientists working for BPN created a harakeke or native New Zealandflax fibre to replace fibreglass in the surfboard, which isresponsible for giving the board its strength and stiffness. BPN CEO, Dr. Claire McGowan explains that BPN is focused oncontributing to the development of a bio-based economy usingnatural, renewable resources like harakeke. “BPN is looking to help set up New Zealand for a new economybased on sustainable products derived from biomaterials,”said Dr. McGowan. “Biomaterials like the harakeke fibre used in the surfboardmay ultimately be used for a range of products including boatcabinetry or automotive panels, or for kitchen or bathroom flooringand benchtops. Other uses for biomaterials include cosmetics,shampoos, skin creams, and replacements for polystyrene andpackaging.” The harakeke fibre surfboard was created to demonstrate that it ispossible to make a water-resistant composite material usingbiomaterials, and to show real-life, everyday applications ofscientific research. “Synthetics have always had an advantage over biomaterialsbecause they can get wet, so what the scientists were trying to dohere was to crack the secret of a water-resistantbiocomposite,” explains Scion scientist Dr. Roger Newman. “The natural fibre is combined with synthetic resins andfoams to make a lightweight, strong composite structure that givesthe board water resistance and also a unique decorative effect,owing to the fact that Synthetic Fibres can be dyed,” he said. “An entirely biobased board could result from our work onbiofoams 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 todevelop the emerging sector of biomaterials. Science New ZealandChief Executive, Anthony Scott says the harakeke surfboard is amodel of science collaboration in New Zealand. “Crown Research Institutes are applying advanced thinking andapplication to lead the way to improving New Zealand’slong-term sustainability. In this case, they combined theirexpertise in wood and wool fibres to develop a new plant-basedfibre, and to create a little red surfboard that’s reallygreen!’ said Scott.