Fibre-reinforced plastics (composite materials) have a low specific gravity and are at the same time very stiff and strong. That is why they are increasingly used in applications in which those properties are important, such as in aeroplanes, cars, buildings, windmills and sports equipment. While the composites sector is experiencing significant growth in Europe, end-users are increasingly demanding materials of natural origin (bio-based). However, the implementation of bio-based materials in end applications is still limited for the time being.
Context
Biocomposites have the advantage of being very light. Unfortunately, the large variation in fibre properties makes a robust design difficult and their intrinsic moisture sensitivity can lead to premature degradation. In addition, the multitude of different biomaterials requires a thorough knowledge of materials during product design. Therefore, a clear dissemination of knowledge around these themes is necessary in order to make full use of the strengths of biocomposites in Flemish industry.
Aims
General Goal
With the BREPLA project we want to accelerate the transition to the production and application of bio-based composites. We do this by further expanding our knowledge of biocomposites and by stimulating and activating the industrial implementation. The cooperation with the companies is the key to a successful transition. The project focuses on 3 sectors with the greatest potential: the furniture industry, the transport sector and the consumer goods sector.
Thanks to the BREPLA project, Flanders is taking the use of biocomposites to a higher level: from demonstrator to commercial product!
Concrete Goals
By means of collective actions and broad, easily accessible awareness raising, we involve the entire value chain in the transition to biocomposites:
- technological training for frontrunners
- hands-on workshops for innovation followers
- composite demonstrators
- a project website, blogs, etc. so that it quickly becomes clear to companies whether and how quickly they can implement the technology.
This transfer of knowledge can also help your business
To participate in this project you can contact Frederik Goethals or fill in the form below:
Collective Research & Development and Collective Knowledge Dissemination (COOCK), supported by Vlaio
Project HBC.2020.2567
1 January 2021 – 31 December 2023
