The aim of the FUNBIOMAT project is the development of masterbatchs (MBs) highly filled in natural fibers, which will enable the manufacture of biodegradable materials in a extrusion process, with improved mechanical properties and improved barrier function against gases.
More precisely, MBs will be composed of biopolyesters such as PLA, PBAT, PBS or PHB and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). MB will be made using both an innovative aqueous process and advanced CNF functionalization methods. Finally, these MB, after dilution in a biopolyester matrix during an extrusion process, will enable to obtain nanocomposites characterized by a homogeneous and fine dispersion of CNFs in the biopolymer. Alternatively, these MB will be applied as a coating on the surface of a biopolyester film to enhance its barrier properties.
To assess the quality of the different developped processes, products such pouches, trays and capsules will be manufactured and their mechanical properties, barrier function against gases, biodegradability, recyclability and their compatibility to food contact will be measured.
The project is part of the collaborative industrial research program (Industrielle Gemeinschaftsforschung, IGF), funded by SPW, SPW Economy Employment Research, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
Our Role in FUNBIOMAT
As a key partner, Materia Nova contributes its expertise in:
- Developing methods to functionalize cellulose nanofibers to ensure their fine and homogeneous dispersion in masterbatches (MBs).
- Optimizing the extrusion process to enable the effective dilution of MBs into biopolymer matrices such as PLA and PHA.
These efforts leverage technological competencies including: chemical functionalization methods for natural additives, masterbatch production, processing techniques (extrusion, thermoforming, injection), coatings, and the evaluation of mechanical, gas barrier, and biodegradability properties of polymer materials.
Collaborative Partners
The FUNBIOMAT project brings together renowned institutions with complementary expertise:
- Fraunhofer IVV: Coatings, films, demonstrator production, and recyclability analysis.
- Fraunhofer UMSICHT: Degradation testing and life cycle assessment.
- Celabor srl: Expertise in developing and characterizing additional materials.
- Materia Nova