The first non-toxic bio-based polymer resin to revolutionize the wood panel industry
Across huge industries, like the construction and wood industry, formaldehyde-based polymer resins are used in large volumes as binders to keep together materials and components to produce stable and durable products. Such oil-based based resins, however, pose a large societal and environmental burden, as these are toxic, carcinogenic, non-recyclable, and have a large CO2 footprint. Due to increased problem recognition and recently introduced regulations, these industries actively seek for alternatives. However no safe, bio-based and cost-competitive resins are currently available that meet the functional requirements for a strong and durable material,.. until now. Plantics B.V. has developed Plantics-GX, a strong, 100% bio-based, recyclable and safe (no formaldehyde or other toxic components) alternative with a carbon footprint that is 5 to 7 times lower compared to existing resins. Plantics-GX is a biopolymer of which the raw materials are abundantly available, at low cost, making production of Plantics-GX cost-competitive to existing oil-based resins. It is ready to replace toxic and polluting resins, starting with binders in the wood industry. The SWOP consortium, consisting of 3 industrial parties and 1 NGO, has been established to realize and accelerate market entry of revolutionary GX-wood panels with Plantics-GX used as a binder. As a result of this project, these wood panels will be commercialized by Koskisen Oy, Finnish market leading wood manufacturer, and used by Triboo B.V., Dutch circular furniture manufacturer, to commercialize formaldehyde-free kitchens. WOOD.BE, a Belgian research and advice organisation in the wood industry, will perform studies to measure the health and environmental effects of a shift to using Plantics-GX. This two year project will accelerate market entry (2022), stimulate the European economy and while doing so address European health and environmental goals.