At the recently concluded THE WADE ASIA 2025 held at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, Jagdish Biswas, Assistant General Manager-Marketing, Merino, presented an insightful and powerful message on the importance of healthy indoor materials as part of the Brand Presentation series showcasing partner brands under Material Review. Biswas began with a striking reminder, stating, “We spend 90 per cent of our time indoors, which means the quality of your indoor space isn’t optional,” thus making the quality of indoor spaces not just important but essential to be world-class, and not only to uplift our moods but also to protect our health. Know more about the session in depth on SURFACES REPORTER (SR).
Rethinking material
Biswas highlighted a hidden danger that is commonly overlooked, which is the emission of carcinogenic formaldehyde gases from many substrates used in interiors. These gases silently pollute the air we breathe indoors, especially in well-sealed, air-conditioned spaces with little ventilation, increasing health risks including cancer.
Addressing this critical concern, Biswas introduced Merino’s latest innovation called the Merino Marine Board. Described as “not just another board but a performance upgrade,” it represents a leap forward in material technology. Manufactured at India’s largest and most advanced chipboard plant in Halol, with imported German technology and a Rs 1000 crore investment, the Marine Board overcomes common issues seen in conventional MDF, plywood and similar products such as warping, poor calibration, moisture damage and structural weakness.
For safer, smarter interiors
The Merino Marine Board boasts impressive durability, tested for 25,000 hinge cycles, exceptional moisture resistance and zero formaldehyde emissions, validated by its E1 grade certification that meets export standards for over 80 countries. Further, Biswas elaborated the health safety aspect, “It is an E1 grade, very safe, export-grade board. It doesn’t emit formaldehyde, the carcinogen that other boards silently release.” Made from 100 per cent real eucalyptus wood and free from borers and termites, it offers robust strength without compromising on aesthetics. Unlike typical plywood that requires additional treatments or lamination, the Marine Board can be directly painted without warping for years, providing users with peace of mind backed by a 12-year warranty.
For Biswas, this product is more than just moisture resistant. It is built to last, outperform and safeguard indoor air quality, thus making it ideal for homes, offices and commercial spaces alike. With Merino Marine Board, architects, designers and homeowners have a new material option that harmonizes innovation, health and even sustainability. Biswas also highlighted Merino’s commitment to innovation since 1965, which continues to reflect the brand’s promise to push boundaries and improve quality with every new offering.