Design for Circularity: Lignocellulose based Thermoplastics - FibRe
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB - Institutionen för kemi och kemiteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 36 000 000 |
| Project duration | January 2020 - December 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Competence centre |
| Call | Kompetenscentrum 2020 |
Important results from the project
FibRe shall develop knowledge that can contribute to replacing fossil-based materials with lignocellulose-based counterparts. The centre´s research has enhanced molecular understanding of fibre formability through internal fibrillation, increased swellability in water, and/or reduced friction using plasticisers. FibRe has also contributed to developing collaboration between fibre and polymer researchers, which can pave the way for new material concepts.
Expected long term effects
FibRe has contributed to enhancing expertise within academia and participating companies. The PhD students and postdoctoral researchers involved in the centre are emerging with new knowledge and skills that can strengthen Sweden´s competitiveness in the long term. The research results will eventually translate into improved or entirely new fibre-based materials, previously unattainable, thereby bolstering Sweden´s innovation capacity.
Approach and implementation
Before FibRe began, research leaders and core partners formulated two hypotheses, which have been the basis for all projects. FibRe was inaugurated the same week that Covid-19 caused a national lockdown, which is why it became urgent and ultimately successful to develop interactive digital meetings. FibRe NextGen (doctoral students and postdocs) was created for cohesion. Interaction plans and all procedures are detailed in the FibRe Handbook.