REBIOLUTION (2023-2026)

The use of alternative fossil-free raw materials, such as bio-based or recycled raw materials, as well as recyclable and/or biodegradable materials plays a central role in achieving these circularity goals in the framework of ambitious targets within EU Green Deal. REBIOLUTION aims to design and synthetize novel fully bio-based and biodegradable polyester blends based on 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and other bio-based monomers fit for specific product market applications (for paper food packaging and agricultural films). These fully bio-based, biodegradable and recyclable plastics will be originated from annually renewable sources and will be biodegradable in home and industrial composting, soil and aquatic environments. They will enhance circularity in applications where mechanical recycling is not possible and will be safe of use.

The resulting bioplastics to be developed within REBIOLUTION will present advantageous features that are superior to current commercial bio-based plastics in terms of mechanical properties, biodegradability and recyclability of their containing polyesters. Selected applications in the project are based on their widespread use and potential negative impact on the environment if not well managed. They correspond to plastic coating for food packaging application (e.g. frozen/chilled food or ready meal trays) and mulch films for agricultural applications. Well-defined sets of polyester blend properties will be established by carefully tuning the blends for each application in order to boost the sustainability performance (non-toxic substances used, reduced energy consumption, waste minimization, recyclable and at the same time home compostable and biodegradable in soil and aquatic environments) and improved functionality while ensuring product and processes safety. REBIOLUTION project aims also to remove barriers to market penetration by providing a drop-in bio-based polymer blend replacement that fosters a seamless transition for the downstream value chain, avoiding additional investment in the processing industrial lines and extra-costs for consumer.

In order to achieved these objectives, REBIOLUTION project brings together expert from the chemical industry (BASF and AVANTIUM), professionals for paper-plastic treatment in its whole chain from coating to recycling (Stora Enso, CTP and Tampere University) to researchers with broad experience in plastic biodegradation in soil, freshwater marine and composting (Hydra Marine Sciences, ETH Zürich and Organic Waste Management) as well as experts in sustainability and communication (Contactica).

CTP will be particularly active for printing, converting and recycling activities.