Cork (material)

Cork is a buoyant, light brown, natural material, obtained from the outer layer of the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber). It is primarily used for wine bottle stoppers, but also has a variety of other uses.

Characteristics

Cork is composed of suberin, a hydrophobic substance, and its major properties are its ability to form an impermeable, buoyant, elastic, and fire retardant material. It is also a sustainable material, as the cork oak tree regenerates its bark every 9 to 12 years.

Production

Portugal is the largest producer of cork, followed by Spain, Italy, and Algeria. The process of harvesting cork does not harm the tree, making it a sustainable resource. The bark is stripped off during late spring and early summer when the cells are turgid and fragile and tear without being damaged.

Uses

Cork's elasticity combined with its near-impermeability makes it suitable as a material for bottle stoppers, especially for wine bottles. Cork stoppers represent about 60% of all cork based production.

Cork's low density makes it a suitable material for fishing floats and buoys, as well as handles for fishing rods (as an alternative to neoprene).

In musical instruments, particularly woodwind instruments and accordions, cork is used to fasten together segments of the instrument, making the seams airtight.

Cork is also used in the construction industry as a thermal and acoustic insulator; in the automotive industry for gaskets and in the footwear industry for the production of shoe soles.

Health implications

Cork dust, when inhaled, can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation. Workers in cork production facilities should take precautions to avoid prolonged exposure to cork dust.

See also

• Cork (city)
• Cork (disambiguation)