German researchers develop bio-based thermosets

In Germany, thermosets are used for many injection-molded products due to their various advantageous properties. The cross-linked plastics are characterized, among other things, by high durability, heat resistance, dimensional stability, good fire properties and excellent electrical insulation properties. In contrast to thermoplastics, however, recycling is limited due to the cross-linking. This is a disadvantage in view of the current trend towards more sustainable plastic products. Therefore, the use of renewable raw materials for this class of materials is particularly important, so that, for example, no additional CO₂ is released even in the event of thermal disposal.

A research project of the SKZ Plastics Center in Würzburg is therefore seeking to make thermosets more environmentally friendly, starting with the materials. The project, called BioDurInject, aims to develop free-flowing thermoset molding compounds based on renewable raw materials. This applies to the matrix material, the fillers and also the fibers. The new molding compounds are to be used for the production of technical molded parts by injection molding. The molded parts produced should achieve a level of properties that corresponds to that of conventional molded parts.