Ⅰ、Project Background
The British Library, one of the world’s largest academic libraries, launched the renovation of its new wing in 2025 to accommodate 10,000 daily visitors and preserve rare collections. The library required flooring materials that combine high durability (resistant to heavy book carts and frequent foot traffic), classic wooden aesthetics (matching the historical architecture), and strict environmental standards (compliant with EU Ecolabel). After evaluating global suppliers, Inner Mongolia Luju Plastic Products Co., Ltd. was selected as the exclusive provider of its “Star Wood Series” due to the product’s realistic wood grain simulation and eco-friendly performance.
Ⅱ、Project Requirements
- Functionality: The flooring must achieve T-class wear resistance(suitable for 15,000+ daily footsteps) and withstand 50kg book cart grinds without deformation. Its slip resistance must reach R10 class to ensure safety for elderly readers.
- Aesthetics: The design should replicate the texture of 18th-century oak wood to harmonize with the library’s historic wooden shelves and marble columns, with a matte finish to avoid glare under reading lights.
- Environmental Performance: VOC emissions must be ≤0.01mg/m³ (meeting EU REACH regulations), and the material must contain 30% recycled content to align with the library’s carbon neutrality goals.
- Construction Constraints: The 8,000㎡ flooring project must be completed in 25 days during off-hours (10 PM-6 AM) to avoid disrupting daily operations, with noise levels ≤55dB.
Ⅲ、Solutions
（1）Product Selection
Luju provided the Star Wood Series customized for the library:
- Structural Design:
- Surface Layer: 0.35mm wear-resistant layer with UV coating, simulating oak wood’s natural grain and texture, passing 120,000 rotations of wear testing.
- Core Layer:High-density fiberboard reinforced with glass fiber mesh, ensuring dimensional stability (expansion rate ≤0.03%).
- Base Layer:Cork buffer layer, reducing noise from foot traffic and book cart movement by 40%.
- Key Advantages:
- The wood grain pattern, created using 3D laser scanning of real oak, achieves a 98% similarity to natural wood, approved by the library’s historical preservation committee.
（2）Design Scheme
The design team created a digital mock-up integrating the library’s architectural blueprints, ensuring the flooring complemented the reading hall’s grid layout. Custom color gradients were developed to match the patina of existing wooden structures, with 3D renderings approved by the library’s design committee before production.
（3）Construction Services
- Team Deployment: A 30-person international construction team (including 5 local British technicians) was formed, trained in Luju’s quick-lock installation technology to ensure precision.
- Noise Control: Low-noise equipment was used, and soundproof barriers were installed, with real-time noise monitoring to keep levels below the library’s requirement.
- Logistics Support: Materials were shipped via rail-sea intermodal transport(35 days to London Port) with 5% spare stock prepared to handle unexpected delays.
- Environmental Protection Measures: Water-based adhesives (VOC ≤5g/L) were used, and 100% of construction waste was recycled, certified by the UK Waste Resources Action Programme (WRAP).
Ⅳ、Project Achievements
（1）Usage Effect
- After 6 months of operation, the flooring in high-traffic areas showed only 0.02mm wear, far below the T-class standard of 0.1mm/year.
- The matte surface effectively reduced light reflection, with 90% of readers surveyed reporting improved reading comfort.
- Cleaning staff noted that dust and stains were easily removed with dry mops, reducing maintenance costs by 30% compared to traditional wooden floors.
（2）Client Feedback
- Library Facilities Director, Mr. Thompson: “The Star Wood flooring perfectly balances history and functionality. Its realistic wood grain has fooled many visitors into thinking it’s real oak, while its durability exceeds our expectations.”
- Chief Librarian, Dr. Evans: “The low-noise performance is impressive—reading halls remain quiet even during peak hours. This project sets a benchmark for historic building renovations.”
（3）Social Impact
The project was awarded the 2025 UK Green Building Excellence Award and featured in Architectural Review for its innovative combination of traditional aesthetics and modern materials. It has attracted inquiries from renowned libraries worldwide, including the Library of Congress and the National Library of France, boosting Luju’s global reputation in the cultural heritage sector.
Ⅴ、Conclusion
The Star Wood Series project at the British Library demonstrates Inner Mongolia Luju Plastic Products Co., Ltd.’s capability to blend cultural heritage preservation with advanced material technology. The product’s authentic wood simulation, durability, and eco-friendly features have not only met the library’s stringent requirements but also opened new avenues for Luju in the international cultural and educational facility market. Moving forward, Luju will continue to develop customized solutions for global clients, bridging traditional aesthetics with sustainable innovation.