Phenix Biocomposites

Phenix is proud to be a leader in both innovation and technology as a manufacturer of environmentally friendly-engineered panel products. We utilize both waste products and renewable resources to create new materials with unlimited applications.

What is it that makes PhenixTM and our products different? For the answers, we invite you to read on and discover how together we can make a difference in the environment today and tomorrow.

Phenix™

As a manufacturer of highly engineered composite materials, Phenix™ is proud to be a leader in both innovation and technology.

With our biocomposite technology, Phenix has created a line of innovative products for the building and furniture industries. We use waste products and rapidly renewable resources to create new materials with unlimited applications for our homes, offices, retail stores, among other outlets.

In 1994, Phenix introduced its first revolutionary material, Environ® biocomposite. Looks truly can be deceiving. Environ® combines unlikely resources - recycled newsprint and soybeans - with spectacular results. The end product is a decorative surface material, which offers a unique look and provides a distinct advantage to its users.

The innovations continue; Phenix has expanded on its leading-edge biocomposite technology to develop poubelle brabantia touch bin with broader applications such as the Dakota Burl composite and BIOFIBER™ Decorative Wheat composite. Phenix also produces industrial composite board products, MICROSTRAND™, from agricultural fibers that are stronger, lighter in weight, smoother and more moisture resistant than conventional wood-based particleboard products.

Our technology and the products it creates offer solutions for our customers and our world. At Phenix, we are most proud of making innovative products and giving our customers a competitive advantage in their industry. The Phenix mission statement reads,

“We strive to manufacture highly engineered composite panels that utilize waste materials and/or renewable resources in an environmentally sound production process, creating highly sustainable products for our customers.”

PhenixTM Company Background

Our History

In June 1992, PhenixTM was incorporated to develop and commercialize a new biocomposite technology for the construction, furniture, cabinet and design industries. This technology resulted in the first commercial product, Environ® biocomposite. Phenix has continued to expand on its leading-edge biocomposite technology by researching and developing additional unique environmental materials such as the Dakota Burl composite and BIOFIBERTM Decorative Wheat composite introduced in 1999 and 2000 respectively.

Another addition to our product line is the MICROSTRANDTM Wheat industrial panels. Phenix’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which became operational in August 1999, produces all of our panel products. Our Mankato facility represents a truly unique blend of design and engineering, manufacturing equipment, and talented personnel. It also houses our fully equipped quality assurance laboratories and research and development operations.

Our Facility

The Phenix plant is a world class manufacturing facility of over 180,000 square feet located in Mankato, Minnesota. Flexible equipment design allows us to switch product manufacturing with minimal downtime. The plant is capable of producing over 40 million feet of composite material annually.

The plant uses state-of-the-art production methods, including low temperature drying that reduces the risk of fire, and utilizes fewer natural resources than conventional methods.

Our Mix

Phenix is the leading provider of bio-based and alternative material technologies through their extensive research and development efforts, resulting in a broad product range of bio-based composite panel products. By utilizing rapidly renewable, sustainable and recycled resources, Phenix has created a line of products that deliver better value to the marketplace and also represent environmentally sound alternatives to products that use our nation’s wood fiber resources at an ever growing and often alarming rate.

Phenix board products utilize:

• Rapidly renewable agricultural resources
• Recycled paper products
• Sustainable materials

Our Commitment

As a manufacturer of highly engineered panel products, Phenix is proud to be a leader in both innovation and technology. Our commitment to the environment can be seen not only in our materials but also in our day-to-day operations. By promoting healthy manufacturing processes and utilizing renewable, sustainable and/or recycled resources, we offer the opportunity for all of us to invest in the future.

Our Environmental Statement

The following statements support our Mission Statement at PhenixTM. Phenix will continue to strive towards further developing its processes and materials to better the environment in which we live and to give our customers a competitive advantage in their industry.

Raw Materials

• Our product lines rely primarily on rapidly renewable agricultural based inputs, materials that are normally burned or plowed under by the farmer. We also use waste paper and reuse our own in-house production based waste stream in the manufacture of our decorative and industrial panel products.
• All of these materials are both plentiful and inexpensive. Our strategic plant location in the Midwest also minimizes shipping expenses and allows us to negotiate favorable prices from our suppliers.
• Our use of these raw materials decreases pollution by keeping product out of landfills and by reducing the air pollution resulting from the burning of agricultural resources.

Production

• Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility was designed to incorporate the most efficient and innovative systems and methods available for the production of composite panel products. Our engineers traveled throughout the world to meet with various suppliers to determine the best production equipment for our unique process. What resulted was a system that produces superior panel products and allows for maximum flexibility to meet the customer requirements while leaving a small environmental footprint.
• The system utilized by Phenix produces panel products in a similar manner to those manufactured by the wood-based panel industry, yet uses a fraction of the energy inputs and produces minimal emissions compared to a wood-based plant. We rely on a highly automated system that results in a safe and effective work environment for all of our employees.
• The general public is becoming increasingly aware of air quality issues in the workplace. Through the use of environmentally sound manufacturing techniques, we are one of the few companies that offer products that do not release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) into the environment. This is accomplished by utilizing materials that do not contain formaldehyde.

Product

• With our biocomposite technology, we created our original product, Environ® biocomposite, which uses waste newsprint and a proprietary soy-based resin system. Our commitment with this product was to create a unique environmentally sensitive product - one that looks attractive to the consumer while creating a positive effect on the environment.
• Our Dakota Burl composite is made from a rapidly renewable agricultural resource, sunflower hulls, that is normally burned or used as animal bedding. By taking a portion of this waste stream for use in a decorative product, we have eliminated a source of pollution.
• The BIOFIBERTM Decorative Wheat composite and MICROSTRANDTM Wheat composite are also made from an agricultural resource, wheat straw. This renewable resource makes these products environmental alternatives to wood composite products both for industrial and decorative uses.
• Another attribute to all of our materials is that they are formaldehyde free. No out-gassing solvents are added during the manufacturing process, thus the material emits no VOCs into the atmosphere.
• Since our startup, we have introduced many decorative and structural products, most utilizing materials that are considered waste by the agricultural industry. Our research and development lab has also worked with a number of companies and local governments that have sent materials in for evaluation of how their waste may be developed into various desirable products. While working with various industries and the government to develop new items that utilize unwanted resources, our laboratories also continue to refine our production process to minimize waste.
• Recycle
• PhenixTM is working with its key customers to initiate a program that will enable us to recycle any of our products that are returned to us due to damage or obsolescence. Our studies have shown that we will be able to reuse the majority of our panel products either in our current product offering or in new products under development.
• We use no wood in our process, only recycled and rapidly renewable resources. The agricultural inputs can be grown in a matter of months, not centuries which is required for wood based products.
• Remember: Renewable, Recyclable and Sustainable - All can make a difference in the environment today and tomorrow.

Sample Applications

Gianni custom office installation utilizing our Dakota Burl composite as the work surfaces.
photo of Environ desk application

The Bakerstreet Bakery installation used Environ® Lapis in the transaction surfaces and BIOFIBERTM Decorative Wheat composite as wall panels.
photo of Biofiber wheat installation

The Mankato Government Center featured a custom color of Environ in a vertical panel application in which the panels were applied to columns of this wall unit.

Products

Environ®biocomposite

What is Environ®biocomposite?

A solid board product that utilizes a bio-based technology and is made from recycled paper-products and rapidly renewable agricultural resources.
This material offers a unique and elegant appearance with the warmth and feel of an exotic hardwood.
How Does Environ® Benefit Our Environment?
Utilizes recycled paper products and rapidly renewable agricultural resources.
No out-gassing solvents are added during the manufacturing process, thus the material emits no VOCs into the atmosphere.

What Does Environ® Look Like?

Color and random textural pattern run throughout the thickness of the material.
All colors and patterns are original creations from the Phenix laboratory, with distinctions that no other product can offer.

How Does Environ® Work?

The material cuts, sands, routes and finishes similar to a fine hardwood. Laser routing/inlay methods used in fine woodworking also work beautifully.
Like wood, Environ® must be sealed and finished to repel stains and moisture. Please consult the Fabrication Manual for general finishing recommendations.
At 1-1/2 times the density of oak, Environ® is very strong and extremely impact resistant in its unfinished state.
Three foot by six foot panels are manufactured in 1/2" and 3/4" thicknesses.

How Can I Use Environ®?

Environ® can be used where the appearance of granite and the workability of wood are desirable.
Applications include Commercial and Residential Furniture, Store Fixtures, Table Surfaces, Horizontal and Vertical Surfaces (transaction surfaces and interior decorative wall applications), Cabinetry, Architectural Applications and more. Please note that this material is intended for commercial and residential interior applications only.

NOTE: Not recommended for kitchen and/or bath countertop applications.

Dakota Burl Composite

What Is Dakota Burl?

A unique composite material that utilizes a bio-based technology and exhibits the beauty and elegance of traditional burled woods.

How Does Dakota Burl Benefit Our Environment?

Manufactured from a rapidly renewable agricultural fiber product.
No out-gassing solvents are added during the manufacturing process, thus the material emits no VOCs into the atmosphere.

What Does Dakota Burl Look Like?

The defined black outlining complements the natural yellow and brown tones of the fibers creating a distinctive pattern.
Natural or stained, the material resembles authentic burled woods, giving a wide range of color options.
The burled pattern and natural appearance run throughout the thickness of the material.

How Does Dakota Burl Work?

The material cuts, sands and routes with standard woodworking tools.
Traditional wood staining and finishing techniques can be used on the material to create a wide range of appearances.
Four foot by eight foot panels are manufactured in 1/2", 3/4" and 1" thicknesses.

How Can I Use Dakota Burl?

Superior panel properties allow for a variety of applications.
Table Surfaces, Horizontal and Vertical Surfaces (transaction surfaces and interior decorative wall applications), Cabinetry, Furniture and Architectural Applications are all excellent uses for Dakota Burl. Please note that this material is intended for commercial and residential interior applications only.

NOTE: Not recommended for kitchen and/or bath countertop applications.

BIOFIBERTMDecorative Wheat Composite

What Is BIOFIBERTMDecorative Wheat Composite?

BIOFIBERTM is a distinctive composite material that is created from a rapidly renewable resource, wheat-straw.
This fiber composite material offers a rich golden appearance compared to traditional hardwood or panel products.

How Does BIOFIBERTMBenefit Our Environment?

Manufactured from an abundant supply of a rapidly renewable resource.
No out-gassing solvents are added during the manufacturing process, thus the material emits no VOCs into the atmosphere.

What Does BIOFIBERTMLook Like?

A smooth surface, fine fiber pattern and golden-yellow hues distinguish this material from other fiber and composite panel products.
The pattern and natural color run throughout the thickness of the material.
A consistent core without voids and high-density surface yield higher impact resistance and improved dent resistance compared to many wood products.
A wide range of color options is possible through custom staining.

How Can I Use BIOFIBERTM?

BIOFIBERTM Wheat can be used in a variety of applications.
Table Surfaces, Horizontal and Vertical Surfaces (transaction surfaces and interior decorative wall applications), Cabinetry, Furniture and Architectural Applications are all uses for BIOFIBERTM. Please note that this material is intended for commercial and residential interior applications only.

E3 Table

Finally, an environmentally friendly table as durable, elegant and economical as the product it replaces…
Made from recycled newspaper, wheat fiber, soy flour and other rapidly renewable resources, our E3 Table line offers a great look with a durable finish.

With no harmful VOCs or formaldehyde, our tables satisfy the most stringent environmental code.

The E3 Table line reflects a unique combination of our existing technologies. The manufacturing process creates a “sandwich” construction, placing durable, impact resistant Environ® biocomposite on each side of the table with MICROSTRAND™ wheat fiber in between.

Available in a wide range of colors, edge bands and sizes, all at a competitive price.

Environ® biocomposite is a decorative interior material that respects the environment by using recycled paper products cross linked with a soy-based resin system and color additives. Environ® gives the look of granite, but the workability of hardwood.

Dakota Burl composite is a unique bio-based material created from an abundant agricultural fiber, sunflower hulls. The material exhibits the natural elegance of traditional burled woods, making it an environmental and economical alternative.

MICROSTRAND™ Wheat composite is made from wheat straw and provides the marketplace with an environmentally sound alternative to wood-based products.

Ideally suited for tables and work surfaces, our products are wood-free, non-toxic alternatives to wood and wood fiber materials.

BIOCOMPOSITES

Environ® biocomposite One and a half times harder than oak, Environ® is a decorative material made from recycled paper products,
bio-based resins, and color additives. This unique solid board product, with the warmth and feel of an exotic hardwood, is available in standard
and custom colors.
STANDARD COLORS
GRAY GRANITE EMERALD MOCHA GRANITE IMPERIAL EVERGREEN
LIMESTONE ROSE GRANITE SANDSTONE
CUSTOM COLORS
Dakota Burl composite A unique bio-based
decorative composite material, made from an
abundant agricultural resource, exhibits the beauty
and elegance of traditional burled woods. The natural
burled texture and pattern along with its panel
properties allow for a variety of applications.
Dakota Burl can be used naturally or stained with
conventional wood stains to achieve a wide range of
color options.
BIOFIBER Wheat Decorative composite
A natural fiber material utilizing our bio-based
technology, which offers a rich golden alternative to
traditional hardwood or panel products. A
distinguished fiber pattern and color run throughout the
entire thickness of the material.
Naturally or stained, Biofiber Wheat will give you a
unique look to your project.
DAKOTA
BURL
COMPOSITE
BIOFIBER™
WHEAT
DECORATIVE
COMPOSITE
Phone: 507-388-3434 Toll Free: 800-324-8187 P.O. Box 609, Mankato, MN 56002-0609 BIOCOMPOSITES LL C
Phenix™ Biocomposites, LLC (Phenix) introduced its first
revolutionary material, Environ® biocomposite, in 1994.
Combining newsprint and soybeans, the end product is an
interior decorative material with a unique look and feel of
hardwood. Manufactured from renewable agricultural
resources, Dakota Burl composite exhibits the elegance
of traditional burled wood. Also in our decorative line is
BIOFIBER™ Wheat Decorative composite- a natural
fiber alternative to hardwood. Phenix also offers a line of
industrial panel products – MICROSTRAND™
composites; see manufacturer for details.
Our innovative bio-engineered process manufactures
rigid, thermo-set panels in which the durability exceeds
that of wood and wood composite boards. All Phenix
materials are tested using the ASTM D1037-93 Standard
Test Methods for Evaluating Properties of Wood-base
Fiber and Particle Panel Systems.
All decorative Phenix materials are intended for interior
commercial and residential use only. The panel materials
are suitable for a wide range of applications, all of which
can be easily created using standard wood fabrication
techniques. The Phenix materials must also have a
finishing system applied (similar to that of wood) to
enhance its full natural color and provide proper
performance.
Phenix™ Biocomposites fully automated quality control
system ensures that these innovative products will always
be of the same superior quality…to match your
specifications.
MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS
BIOCOMPOSITES
CREATING SOLUTIONS…ADDING VALUE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS AND OUR WORLD • A LEADER IN MATERIAL TECHNOLOGY
PANEL PROPERTIES
Description Environ®
biocomposite
Dakota Burl
composite
BIOFIBER™ Wheat
Decorative composite
Mean Density 70 lbs/f3 50 lbs/f3 38-42 lbs/f3
Modulus of Rupture 3500 psi 2400 psi 3500 psi
Modulus of Elasticity 550,000 psi 400,000 psi 420,000 psi
Screw Holding
Perpendicular to plane ≥ 500 lbs. 300 lbs. 230 lbs.
Withdrawal from edge ≥ 500 lbs. 280 lbs. 180 lbs.
Hardness 2500 lbs. 1000 lbs. 700 lbs.
Internal Bond 500 psi 100 psi 70 psi
Thickness Swell 8% <15% <10%
(24 hour immersion)
Water Absorption 11% <20% <25%
(24 hour immersion)
Linear Expansion 1.0% 0.55% ≤.35%
Moisture Content 5% 8% 4%
Flame Spread Class 2 Class 3
Phenix™ Biocomposites, LLC engineered panel products have been tested to the appropriate ASTM and ANSI test standards.
All testing performed on 3/4" thick product.
PANEL PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Panel Thickness Environ® biocomposite
Panel Weight
Dakota Burl composite
Panel Weight
BIOFIBER™ Wheat
Decorative composite
Panel Weight
3/8" (9.6mm) 78 lbs. 52 lbs. 44 lbs.
1/2" (12.7mm) 103 lbs. 69 lbs. 58 lbs.
3/4" (19.1mm) 155 lbs. 104 lbs. 87 lbs.
1" (25.4mm) 206 lbs. 138 lbs. 116 lbs.
Sheet Dimension: 49" x 97" (1245mm x 2464mm) Thickness Tolerance ± 0.005"
Panel Surfaces: 120 grit sand top, 120 grit sand bottom, unfinished.
Phenix, Environ and BIOFIBER are trademarks of Phenix™ Biocomposites, LLC