The inquiry concerns the origin of a composite material crafted from thin layers of wood veneer bonded together with adhesive. The grains of adjacent layers are oriented at right angles to each other, providing strength and stability. This engineered wood product finds widespread applications in construction, furniture manufacturing, and various other industries.
Pinpointing a precise date for its invention is complex, as forms of layered wood construction have existed for millennia. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks utilized similar techniques in furniture making. However, the industrialized manufacturing processes and widespread adoption of the modern version occurred later. The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed crucial advancements in adhesives and manufacturing techniques that paved the way for mass production, leading to its increased availability and affordability. This resulted in a material that offered greater resistance to warping, cracking, and shrinking compared to solid wood, coupled with efficient use of timber resources.