Scientists have created a fire retardant coating for wood. From the tree!

To make the coating, the researchers used HefCel (enzymatic fibrillation) technology

Having obtained a gel-like nanocellulose, the scientists applied it to wood.

Nanocellulose when applied to woodnaturally sticks to it and creates an airtight barrier that keeps oxygen from entering the wood. This helps protect the material from fire, the study says.

Previously, scientists from the University of British Columbiahave developed a cellulose nanocrystalline airgel that will make bone implants lighter, stronger and cheaper compared to similar products made from hard ceramics.