Lignin-based foams for high performance sports cushioning

Important results from the project

The main goal here is to evaluate lignin elastomer foams as a bio-based alternative. Specific objectives include (i) optimizing the chemistry and additives to match the expected mechanical properties, (ii) prepare batches of optimized lignin elastomer, (iii) prepare and test small-scale prototypes (iv) demonstrate and pitch the concept to brand owners. We have achieved objectives i and ii. We have prepared liter-scale materials, but not succeeded in completing goal iii, and so also not completed objective iv. But we have made a qualitative survey of commercial ´bio-based´ foams.

Expected long term effects

We have made a qualitative survey of existing products with ´bio-based´ foams in athletic footwear. We have identified suitable blowing agents and additives to control mechanical properties of lignin-based elastomeric foams. We have prepared liter-scale foams and evaluated the spring-back compared to commercial benchmarks. The key outcome is that we have identified the optimization route for tuning the spring-back of the foams. We were unable to prepare foams that was suitable for prototyping equipment at Reed Kram´s facilities, due to lack of resources.

Approach and implementation

The project objectives were ambitious. We achieved the more challenging objectives, including identifying suitable blowing agent and additives to tune the properties, optimization and liter-scale production of foams. But were unable to prepare foams with size required for the prototyping equipment at partner´s facilities. So we could not produce basic demonstrators for pitching to brand-owners. We carried out a qualitative survey of athletic products with ´bio-based foams´, to position the results of this project within the market space.

External links

Description of this project in the website of RISE.