Formaldehyde-free Hardwood Plywood

Purebond formaldehyde-free hardwood plywood is a relatively new product being offered by Columbia Forest Products.  This plywood is advertised as non-toxic and utilizes a formaldehyde-free, soy-based adhesive.  It is also compliant with the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards.  I have found that it is really cost-competitive with other, existing hardwood plywood and is offered with either a veneer or composite core.  It is apparently very water-resistant and the hardwood components can be specified as "FSC-certified", meaning the wood is sustainably grown and harvested.  They offer a fairly wide range of species, including Bamboo, which is a very sustainable option and really attractive.  I purchased the Birch, veneer-core for a project and have been really satisfied.  The 3/4" sheets are really light-weight and it routs surprisingly well for a plywood.  The more "exotic" domestic wood species (Walnut, Cherry, Maple, etc.) increase significantly in price but the Birch is a real bargain.  There are distributors scattered around the U.S. and some Home Depot stores carry it as well.  More information, including the option to order (free of charge) can be found at Columbia's website.

 










  
   

(images borrowed from http://www.columbiaforestproducts.com/PureBond.aspx)