Biopolymer PHA and cellulose research

Recell exploits the opportunities that biopolymers offer

– Recell Group participated in the research project “Circular Biopolymers Value Chains for PHA and Cellulose” of BERNN. With this research, knowledge was gained about the biopolymers PHA and cellulose. The abbreviation BERNN stands for Bio Economy Region Northern Netherlands, a partnership between the four northern Universities of Applied Sciences and the University of Groningen. Biopolymers can be used for the production of bioplastics and biocomposites, among other things.

CO2-saving bioplastics

There is a large market demand for fully sustainable and CO2-saving bioplastics. Both from consumers and from companies. BERNN research has made a valuable contribution to the realization of production technologies and processing routes. These are necessary to be able to process natural polymers PHA and cellulose for high-quality applications with good product properties. As one of the partners, Recell Group also provided input for this research. In the video (Dutch only) below you can see a short explanation of the project.

Combining knowledge

The following knowledge institutions and companies worked together in this project:

The results

The collaboration in the CBW project has led to many new insights. Important steps have been taken to gather information necessary for the further development of innovative products. For example, the research brought knowledge about the production, purification, properties, applications and degradability of PHAs. This will enable the project partners to further develop sustainable products such as bioplastics and biocomposites.

During the project, much attention was also paid to the properties of products. To make bioplastics attractive to the market, a consistent product is needed. A product of which the mechanical properties and degradability can be easily predicted.The environmental impact of bioplastics, both in production methods and in terms of biodegradability, has also been investigated. A greener extraction method was developed, and biodegradability was tested and proven under various conditions.

Recell Compose

At Recell Group, we recover cellulose from residual streams that would otherwise be burned. We process this into tertiary cellulose. This is how we turn something worthless into a valuable raw material for biocomposites. Biocomposites with a Recell Compose component have intrinsically better and more durable material properties. They also provide a significant reduction in the CO2 footprint. And at a lower price too!

We have developed Recell Compose for a wide range of applications. It is, for example, very suitable as an additive in the automotive and agro-industry. Together with partners in our network, our R&D department is developing the best mixes for 3D printing, injection molding and extrusion. And so there are more and more applications with Recell Compose that are finding their way to the market. Let’s mention a few more: (facade) cladding, doors, window frames, paints, adhesives, decking boards, concrete. With the knowledge gained from the BERNN project, we can take new steps towards even more ánd more beautiful products. Which, in turn, will ensure a more sustainable economy.

Would you like to know more?

Have we made you curious about Recell Compose or the BERNN research? Then leave a message on our contact page and we will get in touch with you.