Composite materials made by Hanwha Azdel, located in Forest, Va., with its commercial applications center in Warren, Mich., are products that can be used as an alternative to plywood. Composite materials, the supplier stated in a press release, are moisture resistant, lightweight, stronger than wood, and has a higher insulation value.
The full release can be read here.
The lightweight materials are said to have a higher insulation value, and allow for lower operating costs and increased longevity.
The supplier went on to state potential dangers of materials like luaun plywood, saying that it may contribute to the presence of indoor air pollutants. Natural wood fiber decomposition can lead to rot, mold and mildew formation along with warping, Azdel Onboard stated. This can lead to delamination or separation of layers in the material reducing its strength.
Avoiding pollutants, including smoking, chemicals, mold, dust, and fumes are recommended by the American Lung Association to avoid exacerbation of symptoms.
A list of RV manufacturers using these composites can be found here.