Automotive components from renewable resources with tailored biodegradability
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea SICOMP AB - Swerea SICOMP, Piteå |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
| Project duration | October 2012 - September 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | FFI - Sustainable Production |
| Call | 2012-02182-en |
| End-of-project report | 2012-02515sv.pdf(pdf, 476 kB) (In Swedish) |
Important results from the project
The hypothesis for the project was that advanced, lightweight, multi-layer-structured composites with tailored biodegradability can be produced by combining polylactide, nano-clay, additives and wood pulp fiber-mats.. The material should be suitable for interior applications in vehicles. The results support the hypothesis to some extent; indications of improved service life according to time temperature superposition predictions for the nano clay modified PLA has been obtained. However the biodegradability properties are still to be confirmed.
Expected long term effects
Termogravimetric analysis showed improved thermal stability of the modified PLA Clay. Time temperature superposition was used to approximate service life of the nano clay modified PLA with different amount of clay content and additives. The TTS results indicate improved service life for clay modified PLA. Composites with pulp mats and both unmodified PLA and nano clay modified PLA were prepared. Open flame tests show improved fire resistance for nano clay modified PLA pulp composites: burning rate is slower and integrity is better during burning. Further testing is still going on.
Approach and implementation
The project plan was ambitious. The planned activities have been performed. However some tests are still going on. Moisture uptake was started as soon as composites were prepared but results have not been finalised. Some mechanical testing of the composites also remains. This work will be finalised in collaboration with LTU in a student project finishing in December.