In situ fibrillation of nanocellulose for cost efficient, and high performing lightweight composites

Purpose and goal

The overall target for this innovation is to realize cost effective and mass production of nanocellulose modified thermoplastic using the proprietary microcellulose powder from FineCell and realizing the nano-fibrillation directly during the melt compounding process, hence to generate sustainable, lightweight and high-performance composites materials with high improved cost efficiency and much reduced environmental impact.

Expected results and effects

The project addresses the early stages of the plastic production value chain, the compounding process where we expect the project to lead to new biocomposites. These materials will be used by component producers who will be able to offer new, light weight and sustainable components to in a wide range of applications, both for consumers and industry, thereby reducing the environmental impact of both the production and use stage of for example cars.

Planned approach and implementation

An in situ fibrillation of FineCell´s microcellulose in composites will be achieved by optimizing and altering the processing processes during compounding of the plastic. This will all be tested systematically at RISE sicomp and will be evaluated together with Örebro university. The successfull fibrillation will be verified using microscopic methods and the obtained results will be compared with material requirements within the plastic industry.