Wet stable cellulose-based foam rods for mitigating a safe fish migration past hydropower stations and dams

Purpose and goal:

The purpose was to develop and produce a sufficient number of entirely bio-based foam rods in full-scale dimensions. To achieve this, the material composition was significantly improved, enabling the production and scaling up of these rods using bulk materials from the forestry industry through a more energy- and time-efficient approach. Finally, the foam and rods were tested in a realistic environment at Vattenfall´s test facility with favorable results, enabling further application areas.

Expected results and effects:

The improvements in the material´s composition and properties take this project to the next level, thanks to the successful upscaling that yielded 36 full-scale prototypes. This allows the customer to start testing the solution in operational environments. Once the solution is verified, we can start addressing a larger market with a strong willingness to pay.

The customer value includes reduced installation costs, easier maintenance, eliminating energy-production losses, and crucial sustainability aspects by utilizing bio-based solutions in aquatic environments. Approach and implementation:

The project was divided into three phases, with the first phase involving the refinement of the recipe and the manufacturing of cellulose-based foams. The aim was to improve the material composition and properties to meet the requirements regarding up-scaling, mechanical properties, and material performance. This was followed by a scaling-up phase where a sufficient number of full-scale cellulose-based foam rods were produced.

In the final step, prototypes were tested in a realistic environment to evaluate their ability to function in the intended application.