EU Project r-LightBioCom: Key Takeaways from the 4th Project Meeting

Dr. Bernd Wetzel and Mohamadreza Nasirzade Tabrizi represented the Leibniz-Institut für Verbundwerkstoffe (IVW) at the 4th Project Meeting of EU-Project r-LightBioCom in Amsterdam.

At the meeting, IVW shared key contributions, including:

• Data on recycling processes and bio-based laminates.
• Integration of recyclates into sustainable composite formulations.

The project as a whole continues to make remarkable progress toward sustainable, high-performance composites. Here are some highlights:

SUSTAINABLE FIBRES

• We produced nonwovens and composite materials using an innovative polypropylene (PP) and polyamide (PA) matrix, rigorously evaluating their mechanical properties to characterize the reinforcement fibres for the different use cases.
• A significant milestone was reached with 30% replacement of standard PP by recycled polypropylene (rPP), boosting sustainability without compromising performance.

FAST CURING TECHNOLOGIES

• Final RTM mold for photopolymerization curing was designed and manufactured. The process was optimized, using a bio-based commercial resin reinforced with flax, glass, carbon or basalt fibers.
• Optimization of elements for vacuum infusion with microwave curing was achieved, and bio-based reinforced resin testing was completed.

INNOVATIVE RECYCLING METHODS

• Success in recycling ballistic helmets via Sc-CO2 co-solvent recycling was achieved, with recycled aramid fibers proving suitable for new yarn production.
• Phenolic resin recyclates were also used to produce foams effectively.

LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (LCA)

• Advanced modeling of resins and fibers deepened understanding of project-relevant materials.
• New recycling models developed provide benchmarks for comparative LCA.

These achievements are a testament to the dedication and collaboration of every project partner involved. We're excited to continue this journey towards innovative and sustainable composite solutions!


Learn more about the project on www.r-lightbiocom.eu