In Cologne, GreenBoats, Raimund Beck Nageltechnik GmbH, and Eindhoven University of Technology all received Biocomposite of the Year Innovation Awards from nova-Institute and Coperion GmbH.
GreenBoats of Bremen, Germany created a prototype boat made from 80% renewable materials, including flax, cork, and biobased epoxy resin. Dubbed GrenBente24, the boat has a “particularly pleasant living climate,” according to Composites World.
Raimund Beck Nageltechnik GmbH of Mauerkirchen, Austria developed wooden nails for use with pneumatic nail guns. There is no need to pre-drill and the nails offer a “natural welding effect with the base wood,” according to the company.
Eindhoven University of Technology of Eindhoven, Netherlands won for its pedestrian bridge made from flax and hemp fibers.
The three winners were selected from a pool of six innovations. The awards were announced at the Biocomposites Conference Cologne, held 6–7 December.