Waste to Worth: Innovating Rubber Compounds for Injection Moulding from Forestry Residues

Important results from the project

In this project, we successfully used Reselo rubber, derived from birch tree bark waste, in conventional rubber and TPE compounds for injection molding. The material was effectively injection molded, demonstrating its processability and suitability for sustainable applications. These results confirm the potential of Reselo rubber as a viable alternative in the rubber industry without compromising on manufacturing efficiency or performance.

Expected long term effects

In the long term, the project is expected to contribute to a more sustainable rubber industry by promoting the use of bio-based materials, reducing reliance on petroleum-based rubbers, and lowering environmental impact. The successful integration of Reselo rubber into conventional manufacturing processes offers potential for widespread adoption in various industrial applications, supporting a shift toward greener, circular economy solutions.

Approach and implementation

The project was implemented through strong collaboration between Reselo and the KTH Polymeric Materials Group. Both partners were involved in the conceptualization and planning stages, as well as in the testing process. Reselo was responsible for producing the bio-rubber and mixing the rubber compounds, while KTH handled the injection molding setup and conducted sample testing. KTH also took on the preparation of TPE samples and related tests, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the project.