Building on nature

Need of bio-based raw materials

We are all aware of the need to drastically reduce CO₂ emissions. An important contribution can be made by replacing fossil-based raw materials by renewable sources such as bio-based alternatives. Crystalline nano-cellulose (CNC) extracted from renewable sources or gained from waste streams could offer possibilities not yet achieved with other nano-materials in the market. Especially if it can be demonstrated that this material has potential in industrially scalable processes.

Crystalline Nanocellulose in polymeric matrices

Homogeneous mixing of nanomaterials in polymeric matrices is highly challenging. Wageningen Food and Biobased Research has ample experience in processing and blending of a wide range of bio-based polymers. This knowledge is used in this project to mix available CNC materials from the market in different polymeric matrices in order to evaluate its potential as additive.

Collaboration within the province of Gelderland

The province of Gelderland has partially founded this REACT-EU project to support an upcoming production technology located in the province. This upcoming technology has the potential of being cheaper and also to use biomaterials coming from waste streams. Wageningen Food and Biobased Research support this development by proving the added value of CNC in foamed polymeric products. The project also aims to stimulate the collaboration of different companies in the province that could benefit from this technology and increase the bio-based content of raw materials in their products.

From polymeric matrix to foams

WFBR has extensive experience in foaming polymers such as PLA or starch. Within this project the potential of CNC in improving the foam properties are a topic of research. Project partners such as Paperfoam, Thermoware and Innograaf can benefit from this knowledge. Other project partners are Cellicon (coordinator), Holland Colours and VHP.