Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI
Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI

Project

ESTELLA

Design of bio-based Thermoset polymer with recycling capabiLity by dynamic bonds

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Thermoplastische Polymere sind in fast allen Industriezweigen weit verbreitet. Herkömmliche Duroplaste, die aus fossilen Rohstoffen gewonnen werden, sind aufgrund ihrer guten Verarbeitbarkeit und ihrer thermomechanischen Eigenschaften die vorherrschende Polymermatrix für diese Verbundwerkstoffe. Sie haben jedoch einen großen Nachteil: ihre schlechte Recycelbarkeit aufgrund ihrer vernetzten Mikrostruktur. ESTELLA arbeitet an der Entwicklung neuartiger biobasierter Epoxidharze mit integrierter Recyclingfähigkeit, so dass der Duroplast wiederverarbeitet oder zu neuen Produkten polymerisiert werden kann und auch die Fasern zurückgewonnen werden können.

 

ESTELLA works on the design of novel bio-based epoxy resins with inherent recyclability capabilities, so that the thermoset can be reprocessed or re-polymerized into new products and the fibres can be recovered as well. In addition, fibres of renewable origin will be used as reinforcement to manufacturing thermoset composites. ESTELLA research addresses recycling techniques of any nature (chemical, biological and mechanical). Fraunhofer ISI performs the evaluation of economic feasibility of processes designed in ESTELLA to make sure that both the processes and products are economically and environmentally sustainable. Further activities involve is a broad socio-economic impact analysis focusing on the assessment of ESTELLA products on the broader society and economy. 

Market and value chain analyses were performed to generate knowledge on the market trends and developments, needs of relevant stakeholders as well as challenges and opportunities along the value chain. The insights gained form the foundation for the subsequent work on the techno-economic analysis and the impact assessment of ESTELLA’s R&D outputs, providing a better understanding of the underlying framework conditions.

Duration

05/2022-4/2026

Clients

  • European Commission, HORIZON-RIA