Bioform, sustainable and environmentally-friendly materials for vacuum-formed products in vehicles
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Autoform i Malung AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 3 135 000 |
| Project duration | April 2022 - August 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | FFI - Sustainable Production |
| Call | Sustainable production - FFI - December 2021 |
| End-of-project report | 2021-05079engelska.pdf (pdf, 1163 kB) |
Important results from the project
The Bioform project aimed to develop bio-based, vacuum-formable materials by integrating biochar and lignin as sustainable alternatives to fossil-based plastics. The project succeeded in replacing up to 44% of plastic content with bio-based fillers, achieving a 40% reduction in carbon footprint. The materials demonstrated excellent processability and performance for automotive applications.
Expected long term effects
The project developed biocomposites with a reduced carbon footprint, improved stiffness, and enhanced flame retardancy, especially when biochar and lignin were combined. The materials proved scalable for industrial production, leading to the development of a commercial ABS/lignin grade. The project also yielded two manuscripts and garnered interest from industry leaders such as SCANIA.
Approach and implementation
The project followed a systematic plan, focusing on the development of bio-based fillers and their integration into ABS. After identifying biochar and lignin as the most promising fillers, the project scaled up production and tested the materials extensively. Compatibility issues between biofillers and the polymer matrix were addressed by exploring potential compatibilizers, ensuring both performance and scalability.