Abstract: The present invention is a fire-retardant wall having a fire-resistance rating of a least two hours and a method of making such a fire-retardant wall. The fire-retardant wall includes a first layer comprising an inner core, typically made of an insulated panel used in construction of buildings, and at least one second layer on each side of first layer, the at least one second layer further comprising at least one fire-resistant board of pressed milled straw, thereby forming the fire-retardant wall having a fire-resistance rating of at least two-hours. The second layer may also include a structural board used as a building panel in construction of buildings and/or an interior wall board used for internal and external walls and ceilings of buildings, wherein such boards are positioned on the exterior side of at least one board of pressed milled straw.

Abstract: The present invention provides a building material derived from straw, such as rice straw, that has significantly improved fire-resistance properties over traditional cellulose-based materials. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of fabricating a board from milled rice straw. The milled rice straw is blended with a binder to form a mixture. The mixture is then formed into a mat with sufficient size to achieve a predetermined board thickness and density. The mat is then pressed into the board. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a fire resistant board that includes milled rice straw, a resin binder, and a fire retardant material such as an organic phosphate, zinc borate, aluminum trihydrate, sodium silicate, or even rice hulls.

Abstract: The present invention provides a building material derived from straw, such as rice straw, that has significantly improved fire-resistance properties over traditional cellulose-based materials. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of fabricating a board from milled rice straw. The milled rice straw is blended with a binder to form a mixture. The mixture is then formed into a mat with sufficient size to achieve a predetermined board thickness and density. The mat is then pressed into the board. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a fire resistant board that includes milled rice straw, a resin binder, and a fire retardant material such as an organic phosphate, zinc borate, aluminum trihydrate, sodium silicate, or even rice hulls.