Design for Circularity: Lignocellulosic based Thermoplastics (FibRe)

Purpose and goal:

The project address the second phase (years 6-10) for the Competence center FibRe (Design for Circularity: Lignocellulosic based Thermoplastics) and follows the first pahse with Vinnovas number 2019-00047

FibRe aims to advance lignocellulose-based materials to replace fossil-derived plastics. The centre unites Chalmers University of Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and 24 industrial partners/organisations, focusing on high-impact research in fibre and polymer science, molecular modification, and advanced characterisation. Key goals include developing modifications for thermoprocessing, structure-property models, and recycling techniques.

Expected results and effects:

FibRe intends to replace fossil-based thermoplastics by developing bio-based alternatives and improving their thermal processing and recyclability through fibre and polymer science. These advances will enhance industry relevance, foster partnerships and support education. By integrating its research tracks – modification, advanced characterization and predictive processing – with demonstrator projects at TRL 3-4, FibRe will contribute to developing sustainable materials science.

Approach and implementation:

The research is organized into demonstration projects in extrusion/injection moulding and thermoforming, which take their starting point in the centre´s fundamental research. FibRe has a board that decides on the projects and consists of representatives from Chalmers, KTH and key partners. The management group is responsible for research, knowledge transfer and collaboration between academia and industry, as well as ensuring an effective dissemination of research results to all parties.