Editing Cork (material)

{{Short description|Tree bark tissue harvested for commercial use}}
{{Other uses|Cork (disambiguation)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2020}}
[[File:Cork.jpg|thumb|Untreated cork panel]]

'''Cork''' is an [[Permeability (earth sciences)|impermeable]] [[buoyancy|buoyant]] material. It is the [[Cork cambium|phellem layer]] of [[bark (botany)|bark]] tissue which is harvested for commercial use primarily from ''[[Quercus suber]]'' (the cork oak), which is native to southwest [[Europe]] and northwest [[Africa]]. Cork is composed of [[suberin]], a [[hydrophobic]] substance. Because of its impermeable, buoyant, elastic, and fire retardant properties, it is used in a variety of products, the most common of which is [[wine stopper]]s.

The [[Dehesa (pastoral management)|montado]] landscape of [[Portugal]] produces approximately half of the cork harvested annually worldwide, with [[Corticeira Amorim]] being the leading company in the industry.<ref>{{cite web
 | last1         = Calheiros
 | first1        = J. L.
 | last2         = Meneses
 | first2        = E.
 | title         = The cork industry in Portugal
 | url           = http://www.uwec.edu/Geography/Ivogeler/Travel/Portugal/cork-article2.htm
 | url-status    = dead
 | publisher     = Junta Nacional da Cortiça, Portugal
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20120112090704/http://www.uwec.edu/Geography/Ivogeler/Travel/Portugal/cork-article2.htm
 | archive-date  = 2012-01-12
}}</ref> Cork was examined [[microscopically]] by [[Robert Hooke]], which led to his discovery and naming of the [[cell (biology)|cell]].<ref name="urlRobert Hooke">{{cite web
 | title         = Robert Hooke (1635-1703)
 | url           = http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/history/hooke.html
 | publisher     = [[University of California Museum of Paleontology|UC Museum of Paleontology]] @ [[University of California, Berkeley|UC Berkeley]]
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref>

Cork composition varies depending on [[Geography|geographic]] origin, [[climate]] and [[soil]] conditions, [[Genetics|genetic]] origin, tree dimensions, age (virgin or reproduction), and growth conditions. However, in general, cork is made up of [[suberin]] (average of about 40%), [[lignin]] (22%), [[polysaccharide]]s ([[cellulose]] and [[hemicellulose]]) (18%), extractables (15%) and others.<ref name="Duarte 2015">{{cite journal
 | last1         = Duarte
 | first1        = Ana Paula
 | last2         = Bordado
 | first2        = João Carlos
 | title         = Cork – A Renewable Raw Material: Forecast of Industrial Potential and Development Priorities
 | journal       = Frontiers in Materials
 | date          = 2015
 | volume        = 2
 | page          = 2
 | doi           = 10.3389/fmats.2015.00002
 | bibcode       = 2015FrMat...2....2D
 | language      = English
 | issn          = 2296-8016
 | doi-access    = free }} [[File:CC-BY icon.svg|50px]]  Text was copied from this source, which is available under a [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/  Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License].</ref>

==History==
[[File:Liege-algerie.jpg|thumb|Harvesting of cork from the forests of Algeria, 1930]]
Cork is a natural material used by humans for over 5,000 years. It is a material whose applications have been known since [[Ancient history|antiquity]], especially in floating devices and as stopper for [[beverages]], mainly [[wine]], whose market, from the early twentieth century, had a massive expansion, particularly due to the development of several cork-based agglomerates.<ref name=":1">{{Cite journal
 | last          = Gil
 | first         = Luís
 | date          = 2014-04-11
 | title         = Cork: a strategic material
 | journal       = Frontiers in Chemistry
 | volume        = 2
 | page          = 16
 | doi           = 10.3389/fchem.2014.00016
 | issn          = 2296-2646
 | pmc           = 3990040
 | pmid          = 24790984
 | bibcode       = 2014FrCh....2...16G
 | doi-access    = free
 | access-date   =
}} [[File:CC-BY icon.svg|50px]]  Text was copied from this source, which is available under a [https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License].</ref>

In [[China]], [[Egypt]], [[Babylon]], and [[Persia]] from about 3000 BC, cork was already used for sealing [[container]]s, fishing equipment, and domestic applications. In [[ancient Greece]] (1600 to 1100 years BC) cork was used in [[footwear]], to manufacture a type of [[sandal]]s attached to the foot by straps, generally [[leather]] and with a sole in cork or leather.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web
 | last          =
 | first         =
 | title         = Cork: culture, nature, future
 | url           = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JqCLi07ghY
 | date          = 2010
 | work          = Santa Maria de Lamas: Press Release
 | publisher     = APCOR Cork Information Bureau (Facebook: CorkInWorld)
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal
 | last1         = Duarte
 | first1        = Ana Paula
 | last2         = Bordado
 | first2        = João Carlos
 | title         = Cork – a renewable raw material: forecast of industrial potential and development priorities
 | date          = 2015-02-02
 | journal       =  Frontiers in Materials
 | volume = 2
 | page = 2
 | doi           = 10.3389/fmats.2015.00002
| bibcode = 2015FrMat...2....2D
 | doi-access = free
 }}</ref>

In the second century AD, a Greek physician, [[Dioscorides]], noted several medical applications of cork, mainly for hair loss treatment.<ref name=":0" /> Nowadays, the majority of people know cork for its use as stoppers in [[wine]] [[bottle]]s. The innovation of using cork as stopper can be traced back to the late 17th century, attributed to [[Dom Pérignon (monk)|Dom Pierre Pérignon]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kebler |first=Denis C. |date=2023-02-20 |title=What is a cork made of |url=https://sraml.com/what-is-a-cork-made-of/ |access-date=2024-03-01 |website=Sraml |language=en-US}}</ref> Cork stoppers were adopted in 1729 by [[Ruinart (Champagne)|Ruinart]] and in 1973 by [[Moët & Chandon|Moët et Chandon]].<ref name="Duarte 2015"/>

==Structure==
Cork presents a characteristic [[wikt:cellular|cellular]] structure in which the [[Cell (biology)|cells]] have usually a pentagonal or hexagonal shape. The cellular wall consists of a thin, lignin-rich middle [[Lamella (cell biology)|lamella]] (internal primary wall), a thick secondary wall made up from alternating suberin and wax lamella, and a thin tertiary wall of polysaccharides. Some studies suggest that the secondary wall is lignified, and therefore, may not consist exclusively of suberin and waxes. The cells of cork are filled with a [[gas]] [[mixture]] similar to air, making them behave as authentic "pads," which contributes to the capability of cork to recover after compression.<ref name="Duarte 2015"/>

==Sources==
[[File:1-Arraiolos-0050.jpg|thumb|''[[Quercus suber]]'' (cork oak) bark, Portugal]]
There are about 2,200,000 hectares of cork oak ''([[Quercus suber]])'' forest in the [[Mediterranean basin]], the native area of the species. The most extensively managed habitats are in [[Portugal]] (34%) and in [[Spain]] (27%).
Annual production is about 300,000 tons; 49.6% from Portugal, 30.5% from Spain, 5.8% from [[Morocco]], 4.9% from [[Algeria]], 3.5% from [[Tunisia]], 3.1% from [[Italy]], and 2.6% from [[France]].<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Cork Oak Forest (formerly titled: Cork Production – Area of cork oak forest)
 | url           = https://www.apcor.pt/en/montado/forest/
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20150318120259/http://www.apcor.pt/artigo/cork-production.htm
 | archive-date  = 2015-03-18
 | website       = apcor.pt
 | publisher     = APCOR
}}</ref>
Once the trees are about 25 years old the cork is traditionally stripped from the trunks every nine years, with the first two harvests generally producing lower quality cork (''male cork'' or ''virgin cork''). The trees live for about 300 years.

The cork industry is generally regarded as environmentally friendly.<ref>{{cite web
 | last          = Skidmore
 | first         = Sarah
 | title         = Stopper pulled on cork debate
 | url           = https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2007-08-26-cork-debate_N.htm
 | date          = 2007-08-26
 | publisher     = [[USA Today]] ([[Associated Press|AP]])
}}</ref> Cork production is generally considered [[sustainable]] because the cork tree is not cut down to obtain cork; only the bark is stripped to harvest the cork.<ref>{{cite news
 | last          = McClellan
 | first         = Keith
 | title         = Apples, Corks, and Age
 | url           = http://www.blanconews.com/news/116198/
 | access-date   = 2014-05-22
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20141227232506/http://www.blanconews.com/news/116198/
 | archive-date  = 2014-12-27
 | publisher     = Blanco County News
}}</ref> The tree continues to live and grow. The [[sustainability]] of production and the easy [[recycling]] of cork products and by-products are two of its most distinctive aspects. [[Cork oak]] forests also prevent [[desertification]] and are a particular habitat in the [[Iberian Peninsula]] and the refuge of various [[endangered species]].<ref>{{cite news
 | last          = Henley
 | first         = Paul
 | title         = Urging vintners to put a cork in it
 | url           = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7623912.stm
 | date          = 2008-09-18
 | publisher     = [[BBC News]]
}}</ref>

[[Carbon footprint]] studies conducted by [[Corticeira Amorim]], Oeneo Bouchage of France and the Cork Supply Group of Portugal concluded that cork is the most environmentally friendly [[wine]] [[stopper (plug)|stopper]] in comparison to other alternatives. The [[Corticeira Amorim]]'s study, in particular ("Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminum and Plastic Wine Closures"), was developed by [[PricewaterhouseCoopers]], according to [[ISO 14000|ISO 14040]].<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminium and Plastic Wine Closures
 | url           = http://www.corkfacts.com/pdffiles/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf
 | pages         = 126
 | date          = October 2008
 | publisher     = [[Corticeira Amorim]] (by [[PwC]]/ECOBILAN)
 | url-status    = dead
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20090913143609/http://www.corkfacts.com/pdffiles/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf
 | archive-date  = 2009-09-13
}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminium and Plastic Wine Closures (summary)
 | url           = https://www.portoprotocol.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Amorim-Cork_-Analysis-of-the-life-cycle-of-Cork-Aluminium-and-Plastic-Wine-Closures_PWC.pdf
 | pages         = 27
 | date          = November 2008
 | website       = Porto Protocol Foundation
 | publisher     = [[Corticeira Amorim]] (by [[PwC]]/ECOBILAN)
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref> Results concluded that, concerning the emission of greenhouse gases, each plastic stopper released 10 times more [[Carbon dioxide|CO<sub>2</sub>]], whilst an aluminium screw cap releases 26 times more CO<sub>2</sub> than does a cork stopper. For example, to produce 1,000 cork stoppers 1.5&nbsp;kg {{CO2}} are emitted, but to produce the same amount of plastic stoppers 14&nbsp;kg of {{CO2}} are emitted and for the same amount of aluminium screw caps 37&nbsp;kg {{CO2}} are emitted.<ref name=":1" />

The [[Quercus variabilis|Chinese cork oak]] is native to East Asia and is cultivated in a limited extent in China; the cork produced is considered inferior to ''Q. suber'' and are used to produce agglomerated cork products.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Ferreira |first1=Joana |last2=Miranda |first2=Isabel |last3=Şen |first3=Umut |last4=Pereira |first4=Helena |date=2016-12-30 |title=Chemical and cellular features of virgin and reproduction cork from Quercus variabilis |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669016306185 |journal=Industrial Crops and Products |volume=94 |pages=638–648 |doi=10.1016/j.indcrop.2016.09.038 |issn=0926-6690}}</ref>

The so-called "cork trees" ''([[Phellodendron]])'' are unrelated to the cork oak, they have corky bark but not thick enough for cork production.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

==Harvesting==
[[File:IAPH Saca del corcho.jpg|thumb|left|upright|Cork extraction near [[Aracena]], Spain]]
Cork is extracted only from early May to late August, when the cork can be separated from the tree without causing permanent damage. When the tree reaches 25–30 years of age and about 24 in (60&nbsp;cm) in circumference, the cork can be removed for the first time. However, this first harvest almost always produces poor quality or ''virgin'' cork (Portuguese {{lang|pt|cortiça virgem}}; Spanish {{lang|es|corcho bornizo}} or {{lang|es|corcho virgen}}<ref name="DRAE">{{cite web
 | title         = DRAE
 | url           = http://lema.rae.es/drae/
 | url-status    = dead
 | website       = Lema.rae.es
 | access-date   = 2014-07-03
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20151104145435/http://lema.rae.es/drae/
 | archive-date  = 2015-11-04
}}</ref>).

The workers who specialize in removing the cork are known as ''extractors''. An extractor uses a very sharp axe to make two types of cuts on the tree: one horizontal cut around the plant, called a ''crown'' or ''necklace'', at a height of about two to three times the circumference of the tree, and several vertical cuts called ''rulers'' or ''openings''. This is the most delicate phase of the work because, even though cutting the cork requires significant force, the extractor must not damage the underlying [[phellogen]] or the tree will be harmed.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

To free the cork from the tree, the extractor pushes the handle of the axe into the rulers. A good extractor needs to use a firm but precise touch in order to free a large amount of cork without damaging the product or tree.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

[[File:Quercus suber corc.JPG|thumb|A stack of harvested cork, [[Algarve]], [[Portugal]]]]

These freed portions of the cork are called ''planks''. The planks are usually carried off by hand since cork forests are rarely accessible to vehicles. The cork is stacked in piles in the forest or in yards at a factory and traditionally left to dry, after which it can be loaded onto a truck and shipped to a processor.

Bark from initial harvests can be used to make flooring, shoes, insulation and other industrial products. Subsequent extractions usually occur at intervals of nine years, though it can take up to thirteen for the cork to reach an acceptable size. If the product is of high quality it is known as ''gentle'' cork (Portuguese {{lang|pt|cortiça amadia}},<ref>{{lang|pt|Amadio}} comes from and is a synonym of {{lang|pt|amavio}}, "beberage or spell to seduce" (Dicionário Houaiss da Língua Portuguesa), from {{lang|pt|amar}}, "to love".</ref> but also {{lang|pt|cortiça secundeira}} only if it is the second time; Spanish {{lang|es|corcho segundero}}, also restricted to the second time<ref name="DRAE"/>), and, ideally, is used to make stoppers for wine and champagne bottles.<ref>{{cite web
 |title        = Harvesting Cork Is as Natural as Shearing Sheep
 |url          = http://about.newsusa.com/article/harvesting-cork-is-as-natural-as-shearing-sheep.aspx
 |date         = 2014-06-12
 |website      = Newsusa.com
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20140613004417/http://about.newsusa.com/article/harvesting-cork-is-as-natural-as-shearing-sheep.aspx
 |archive-date = 13 June 2014
 |publisher    = 100percentcork.org
 |url-status   = dead
 |access-date  = 16 July 2014
}}</ref>

==Properties and uses==
[[File:Cork-rolls.jpg|thumb|Cork can be varnished and used for [[flooring]], as an alternative for [[linoleum]], [[Rock (geology)|stone]], or [[ceramic]] [[tile]]s]]
Cork's [[elasticity (solid mechanics)|elasticity]] combined with its near-impermeability makes it suitable as a material for [[bottle]] [[stopper (plug)|stoppers]], especially for [[wine bottle]]s. Cork stoppers represent about 60% of all cork based production. Cork has an almost zero [[Poisson's ratio]], which means the radius of a cork does not change significantly when squeezed or pulled.<ref name="Stavroulakis1">{{cite journal
 | last1         = Stavroulakis
 | first1        = G.E.
 | title         = Auxetic behaviour: Appearance and engineering applications
 | year          = 2005
 | journal       = Physica Status Solidi B
 | volume        = 242
 | issue         = 3
 | pages         = 710–720
 | doi           = 10.1002/pssb.200460388
 | bibcode       = 2005PSSBR.242..710S
 | s2cid         = 122613228
}}</ref>

Cork is an excellent [[gasket]] material. Some [[carburetor]] float bowl gaskets are made of cork, for example.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

Cork is also an essential element in the production of [[badminton]] [[shuttlecock]]s.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lin |first1=C. S. H. |title=Aerodynamics of badminton shuttlecock: Characterization of flow around a conical skirt with gaps, behind a hemispherical dome |url=https://dr.ntu.edu.sg/bitstream/10356/79761/1/INDAER-D-13-00295.pdf |website=dr.ntu.edu.sg/ |publisher=Elsevier |access-date=10 June 2024}}</ref>

Cork's bubble-form structure and natural fire retardancy make it suitable for acoustic and [[Cork thermal insulation|thermal insulation]] in house walls, floors, ceilings, and facades. The by-product of more lucrative stopper production, corkboard, is gaining popularity as a non-allergenic, easy-to-handle and safe alternative to petrochemical-based insulation products.

Cork is also used to make vinyl record slipmats, due to its ability to not attract dust. They also dampen static and vibrations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Turntable Mats: What Are They Used For? |url=https://thesoundofvinyl.us/blogs/vinyl-101/turntable-mats-use#:~:text=Cork%20Turntable%20Mats&text=They%20don't%20attract%20dust,light%20but%20%5Dnon-resonant. |access-date=2024-09-07 |website=The Sound of Vinyl |language=en}}</ref>

Sheets of cork, also often the by-product of stopper production, are used to make [[bulletin boards]] as well as [[flooring|floor and wall tiles]].

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

Granules of cork can also be mixed into [[concrete]]. The composites made by mixing cork granules and cement have lower thermal conductivity, lower density, and good energy absorption. Some of the property ranges of the composites are density (400–1500&nbsp;kg/m<sup>3</sup>), compressive strength (1–26 MPa), and flexural strength (0.5–4.0&nbsp;MPa).<ref>Karade SR. 2003. An Investigation of Cork Cement Composites. PhD Thesis. BCUC. Brunel University, UK.</ref>

===Use in wine bottling===
[[File:Wine Corks.jpg|thumb|Cork [[Stopper (plug)|stoppers]] of various sizes for wine bottles]]
As late as the mid-17th century, French [[vintners]] did not use cork stoppers, using instead oil-soaked rags stuffed into the necks of bottles.<ref>Prlewe, J. Wine From Grape to Glass. New York: Abbeville Press, 1999, p. 110.</ref>

Wine corks can be made of either a single piece of cork, or composed of particles, as in champagne corks; corks made of granular particles are called "agglomerated corks".<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Guide for using wine corks
 | url           = http://www.brewerylane.com/corks.html
 | date          =
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20140113052418/http://www.brewerylane.com/corks.html
 | archive-date  = 2014-01-13
}}</ref>

Natural cork [[Closure (wine bottle)|closures]] are used for about 80% of the 20 billion bottles of [[wine]] produced each year. After a decline in use as wine-stoppers due to the increase in the use of synthetic alternatives, cork wine-stoppers are making a comeback and currently represent approximately 60% of wine-stoppers in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web
 | title         = International Organisation of Vine and Wine
 | url           = http://oiv.int
}}</ref>

[[File:Champagne uncorking photographed with a high speed air-gap flash.jpg|thumb|upright|left|High-speed [[air-gap flash]] image of a champagne bottle being uncorked]]
Because of the cellular structure of cork, it is easily compressed upon insertion into a bottle and will expand to form a tight seal. The interior diameter of the neck of glass bottles tends to be inconsistent, making this ability to seal through variable contraction and expansion an important attribute.  However, unavoidable natural flaws, channels, and cracks in the bark make the cork itself highly inconsistent. In a 2005 closure study, 45% of corks showed gas leakage during pressure testing both from the sides of the cork as well as through the cork body itself.<ref>{{cite web
 | last          = Gibson
 | first         = Richard
 | title         = variability in permeability of corks and closures
 | work          = [[American Society for Enology and Viticulture]]
 | publisher     = Scorpex Wine Services
 | date          = 2005-06-24
 | url           = http://www.scorpex.net/ASEVClosures2005RGibson.pdf
 | url-status    = dead
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20130512182445/http://www.scorpex.net/ASEVClosures2005RGibson.pdf
 | archive-date  = 2013-05-12
}}</ref>

[[File:ABS-5439.0-InternationalMerchandiseImportsAustralia-StandardInternationalTradeClassificationCustomsValue-633CorkManufactures-A1828854A.svg|thumb|right|Import value of cork manufactures to Australia since 1988 ([[Australian dollar|$]]million/month), showing a peak in 2002]]
Since the mid-1990s, a number of wine brands have switched to [[alternative wine closure]]s such as [[plastic]] stoppers, [[Screw cap (wine)|screw caps]], or other closures. During 1972 more than half of the Australian bottled wine went bad due to corking. A great deal of anger and suspicion was directed at Portuguese and Spanish cork suppliers who were suspected of deliberately supplying bad cork to non-[[European Economic Community|EEC]] wine makers to help prevent cheap imports. Cheaper wine makers developed the aluminium "Stelvin" cap with a polypropylene stopper wad. More expensive wines and  carbonated varieties continued to use cork, although much closer attention was paid to the quality. Even so, some high premium makers prefer the Stelvin as it is a guarantee that the wine will be good even after many decades of ageing. Some consumers may have conceptions about screw caps being representative of lower quality wines, due to their cheaper price; however, in Australia, for example, much of the non-sparkling wine production now uses these Stelvin caps as a cork alternative, although some have recently switched back to cork citing issues using screw caps.<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Rusden Wines abandons screwcap for cork
 | url           = https://harpers.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/11533/Rusden_Wines_abandons_screwcap_for_cork.html
 | publisher     = [[Harpers Wine & Spirit]]
 | website       = Harpers.co.uk
 | date          = 2012-07-26
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref>

[[File:Cork 1000x - SEM MUSE.tif|thumb|left|[[Scanning electron microscope|Scanning electron micrograph]] of cork ([[Museo delle Scienze]])]]
The alternatives to cork have both advantages and disadvantages. For example, screwtops are generally considered to offer a [[Cork taint|trichloroanisole]] (TCA) free seal, but they also reduce the oxygen transfer rate between the bottle and the atmosphere to almost zero, which can lead to a reduction in the quality of the wine.{{Citation needed|date=April 2016}} TCA is the main documented cause of [[cork taint]] in wine. However, some in the wine industry say natural cork stoppers are important because they allow oxygen to interact with wine for proper aging, and are best suited for wines purchased with the intent to age.<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Cork or screw cap – which is best for your wine?
 | url           = http://www.corklink.com/index.php/cork-or-screw-cap-which-is-best-for-your-wine/
 | website       = Corklink.com
 | publisher     = CorkLink
 | date          = 2014-06-08
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref>

Stoppers which resemble natural cork very closely can be made by isolating the suberin component of the cork from the undesirable [[lignin]], mixing it with the same substance used for contact lenses and an adhesive, and molding it into a standardized product, free of TCA or other undesirable substances.<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Diam Corks
 | url           = http://www.thewinesociety.com/growers-and-vintages-winemaking-diam-corks
 | url-status    = dead
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20141216121843/http://www.thewinesociety.com/growers-and-vintages-winemaking-diam-corks
 | archive-date  = 2014-12-16
}}, The Wine Society</ref>  Composite corks with real cork veneers are used in cheaper wines.<ref>{{cite news
 | last1         = Konohovs
 | first1        = Artjoms
 | title         = The True Cost of a Bottle of Cheap Wine (2012-03-14)
 | url           = http://kalw.org/post/true-cost-bottle-cheap-wine#stream/0
 | publisher     = [[KALW]]
 | date          = 2014-06-16
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
 }}</ref> Celebrated Australian wine writer and critic [[James Halliday (wine)|James Halliday]] has written that since a cork placed inside the neck of a wine bottle is 350-year-old technology, it is logical to explore other more modern and precise methods of keeping wine safe.<ref>{{Cite web
 | last          = Halliday
 | first         = James
 | title         = Wine bottle closures
 | url           = https://www.winecompanion.com.au/resources/australian-wine-industry/wine-bottle-closures
 | website       = WineCompanion.com.au
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
}}</ref>

The study "Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminum and Plastic Wine Closures," conducted by [[PricewaterhouseCoopers]] and commissioned by a major cork manufacturer, [[Corticeira Amorim|Amorim]], concluded that cork is the most environmentally responsible stopper, in a one-year [[Life cycle assessment|life cycle analysis]] comparison with plastic stoppers and aluminum screw caps.<ref>{{cite web
 |title        = Evaluation of the environmental impacts of Cork Stoppers versus Aluminium and Plastic Closures: Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminium and Plastic Wine Closures
 |publisher    = [[Corticeira Amorim]] (Amorim Cork Research)
 |work         = [[PwC]]/ECOBILAN
 |date         = October 2008
 |url          = http://www.amorimcork.com/media/cms_page_media/228/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf
 |url-status   = dead
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20161130111246/http://www.amorimcork.com/media/cms_page_media/228/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf
 |archive-date = 30 November 2016
 |access-date  = 3 April 2016
}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web
 | last          = Easton
 | first         = Sally
 | title         = Cork is the most sustainable form of closure, study finds
 | url           = http://www.decanter.com/wine-news/cork-is-the-most-sustainable-form-of-closure-study-finds-75623/
 | website       = Decanter
 | date          = 2008-12-08
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
 | language      = en-US
}}</ref>

===Other uses===
[[File:RobertHookeMicrographia1665.jpg|thumb|The famous early (1665) micrograph of cork, drawn by [[Robert Hooke]], and described in [[Micrographia]], book written by him. Fig. A (Right) is [[Transverse section|TS]] and Fig. B (Left) is [[Longitudinal Section|LS]] of cork. ]]
* On 28 November 2007, the Portuguese national postal service [[CTT Correios de Portugal, S.A.|CTT]] issued the world's first [[postage stamp]] made of cork.<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = CTT lançam primeiro selo de cortiça do mundo (CTT launches the world's first cork stamp "practically sold out")
 | url           = http://www.publico.pt/Sociedade/ctt-lancam-primeiro-selo-de-cortica-do-mundo_1312177
 | url-status    = dead
 | publisher     = Publico.pt
 | language      = pt
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20111001234539/http://www.publico.pt/Sociedade/ctt-lancam-primeiro-selo-de-cortica-do-mundo_1312177
 | archive-date  = 2011-10-01
}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web
 | title         = Corks – They're Not Just For Wine Bottles Anymore: cork stamp debuts in Portugal
 | url           = http://winestorageguide.com/cork-stamp-debuts-in-portugal/#
 | url-status    = dead
 | access-date   = 2018-11-26
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20141204201145/http://winestorageguide.com/cork-stamp-debuts-in-portugal/
 | archive-date  = 2014-12-04
}}</ref>
* In musical instruments, particularly [[woodwind instrument]]s, where it is used to fasten together segments of the instrument, making the seams airtight. Low quality conducting baton handles are also often made out of cork.
* In shoes, especially those using [[Welt (shoe)|welt construction]] to improve climate control and comfort.
* Because it is impermeable and moisture-resistant, cork is often used as an alternative to leather in [[handbag]]s, [[wallet]]s, and other fashion items.
* To make [[brick]]s for the outer walls of houses, as in Portugal's pavilion at [[Expo 2000]].
* As the core of both [[Baseball (ball)|baseballs]] and [[cricket ball]]s. A [[corked bat]] is made by replacing the interior of a [[baseball bat]] with cork – a practice known as "corking". It was historically a method of cheating at [[baseball]]; the [[wikt:efficacy|efficacy]] of the practice is now discredited.
* In various forms, in spacecraft [[Heat shield#Space|heat shields]]<ref>{{cite web
 | title         = Genesis: Search for Origins Spacecraft Subsystems – Sample Return Capsule
 | date = December 2017
 | url           = https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/genesismission/gm2/spacecraft/subsystems.html
 | quote         = ''cork-based material called SLA-561V that was developed by Lockheed Martin for use on the Viking missions to Mars, and have been used on several missions including Genesis, Pathfinder, Stardust and the Mars Exploration Rover missions.''
 | publisher     = [[Jet Propulsion Laboratory]]
 | access-date   = 2018-02-28
 }}</ref> and [[Payload fairing|fairings]].
* In the paper pick-up mechanisms in [[inkjet]] and [[laser printers]].
* To make later-model [[pith helmet]]s.<ref>{{cite web
 | last          = Suciu
 | first         = Peter
 | title         = Pith vs. Cork – Not One and the Same
 | url           = http://www.militarysunhelmets.com/2012/pith-vs-cork-not-one-and-the-same
 | date          = 2012-09-17
 | access-date   = 2022-12-10
 | publisher     = Military Sun Helmets
 | website       = Militarysunhelmets.com
}}</ref>
* Hung from hats to keep insects away. (''See ''[[cork hat]])
* As a core material in [[sandwich structured composite|sandwich composite]] construction.
* As the friction lining material of an [[automatic transmission]] [[clutch]], as designed in certain [[mopeds]].
* Alternative of wood or aluminium in automotive interiors.<ref>{{Cite web
 | last          = Markus
 | first         = Frank
 | title         = Getting Corked: Faurecia Takes to the Automotive Interior Fashion Runway
 | date          = 2012-01-07
 | publisher     = [[Motor Trend]]
 | url           = http://blogs.motortrend.com/getting-corked-faurecia-takes-to-the-automotive-interior-fashion-runway-27267.html#axzz2IsK1zHuY
 | access-date   = 2013-01-24
 | url-status    = dead
 | archive-url   = https://web.archive.org/web/20130127144701/http://blogs.motortrend.com/getting-corked-faurecia-takes-to-the-automotive-interior-fashion-runway-27267.html#axzz2IsK1zHuY#axzz2IsK1zHuY
 | archive-date  = 2013-01-27
}}</ref>
* Cork slabs are sometimes used by orchid growers as a natural mounting material.
* Cork paddles are used by glass blowers to manipulate and shape hot molten glass.
* Many racing bicycles have their handlebars wrapped in cork-based tape manufactured in a variety of colors.
* To make [[architectural model]]s.

==See also==
* [[Bung]]
* [[Cork Boat (vessel)]]
* [[Cork borer]]
* [[Cork cambium]]
* [[Corkscrew (tool)|Corkscrew]]
* [[Cricket ball]]
{{clear}}

==Notes==
{{Reflist}}

==References==
* Margarida Pi i Contallé. 2006. Laboratory head in [http://manuelserrataponesdecorcho.blogspot.com/ Manuel Serra] [https://web.archive.org/web/20110721040429/http://www.tesisenxarxa.net/TESIS_UAB/AVAILABLE/TDX-1031107-165146/mpc1de1.pdf Hongos y micotoxinas en tapones de corcho. Propuesta de límites micológicos aceptables]
* [http://www.corkfacts.com/natlcrk11.htm Cork production] corkfacts.com
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160408013152/http://www.iprocor.org/ Instituto de Promoción del Corcho, Extremadura] iprocor.org {{in lang|es}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090913143609/http://www.corkfacts.com/pdffiles/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminium and Plastic Wine Closures]
* Henley, Paul, ''BBC.com'' (18 September 2008). [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7623912.stm "Urging vintners to put a cork in it"].
* [[PricewaterhouseCoopers]]/ECOBILAN (October 2008). [https://web.archive.org/web/20090913143609/http://www.corkfacts.com/pdffiles/Amorim_LCA_Final_Report.pdf Analysis of the life cycle of Cork, Aluminium and Plastic Wine Closures]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00g34qr Cork - Forest in a Bottle.] 2008.

==External links==
{{Commons category|Cork (material)}}
* [http://www.corkqc.com/ Cork Quality Council]
* [http://www.vinography.com/archives/2008/05/book_review_to_cork_or_not_to.html Book review: To cork or not to cork ]
* [http://www.makeitfrom.com/data/?material=Cork Material Properties Data: Cork]
* [http://www.corkclub.com Cork Recycling Initiative.] 2017.
{{wines}}
{{winemaking}}
{{Non-timber forest products}}
{{Biological tissue}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Cork (Material)}}
[[Category:Wine packaging and storage]]
[[Category:Non-timber forest products]]
[[Category:Materials]]
[[Category:Plant anatomy]]
[[Category:Plant morphology]]