BIOAPP: Application development of innovative biorefinery products towards biobased materials

In close collaboration with TRANSfarm and the spin-off cell of LRD, the research group of prof. Bert Sels is developing a pilot-scale technology platform around next-generation biorefining of lignocellulosic biomass. Application development based on the primary biorefinery products, i.e. lignin oil and cellulose pulp, is crucial for the valorisation strategy of the platform and therefore forms the central ambition and focus of the BIOAPP project. Tailored lignin oil fractions with built-in catalytic activity will be developed as biobased polyol for polyurethane synthesis (prof. Bert Sels), while the carbohydrate pulp will be converted into nanocellulose in a custom-designed pilot reactor (prof. Wim Thielemans). Inclusion of the resulting nanocellulose in lignin-based PU composites will be targeted. Next to an increased biobased content, improvements in thermal and mechanical properties are expected and investigated. The projected outcome is a diversified product portfolio with industry-validated PU application potential, serving as a strong lever for the planned valorization activities.

Keywords:Catalytic biorefinery, Liquid extraction, Biobased materials, Polyurethane, Nanocellulose

Disciplines:Catalysis, Polymer composites, Chemistry of clusters, colloids and nanomaterials