Automotive rubber parts from forestry waste
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Scania CV AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 501 450 |
| Project duration | June 2024 - May 2025 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Accelerate Swedish partnership |
Important results from the project
The project resulted in a mapping of the properties of rubber materials based on a new, 100% bio-based polymer, produced from waste from the forest industry. Materials were developed, partly with admixture of traditional polymers such as EPDM and nitrile rubber, and partly without admixture, i.e. 100% new polymer. Prototypes of articles for use in trucks were injection molded with good results. An LCA-analysis was carried out to get an idea of the overall environmental and climate benefit.
Expected long term effects
The project has shown that it is possible to replace certain fossil-based rubber polymers with this 100% bio-based polymer. It is not yet commercially available on a large scale though. But, the result of this project can hopefully be a forerunner that shows that it is possible to manufacture articles in the material, thereby increasing the possibilities for commercialization and large-scale manufacturing.
Approach and implementation
The project started with a general characterization of different rubber materials based on the new polymer, to get an idea of which properties are achievable, and a form of requirement specification could be established. In the second phase, a Swedish rubber manufacturer was linked to the project. Two products were selected as suitable for manufacturing prototypes. Finally, an LCA and cost analysis of materials based on the new polymer was performed.