The project ran between June 2020 and October 2022.
This project had a dual scope. First, to propose a novel chemical modification of wheat starch (oxidation) and prepare thereof functional bio-based adhesives for fibreboards. Second, to present a proof of concept based on hydroblasting (water jets) for recycling fibreboards manufactured with the starch adhesives.
By using different oxidation methods, it was possible to produce dialdehyde and oxidised starch. Specific production protocols were presented in terms of duration and temperature of the oxidation, and level of catalyst. Subsequently, the modified starch materials were used in combination with other biopolymers and synthetic crosslinkers for making a series of adhesives for fibreboards.
Dialdehyde starch adhesives had only a very small synthetic content while both bonding strength and thickness swelling were comparable to standard fibreboards. Formulations with oxidised starch were much more economical but they could only reach a 50% bio-based content and presented high thickness swelling. The hydrobalsting method could ensure full disintegration of both reference and experimental panels.
The image shows a step in the wheat starch modification process.
Participants
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Linnéuniversitetet, Lantmännen, IKEA and Nova Innovation Solutions.
Budget
The projects budget was 3,9 MSEK.