ECOXY aims at developing innovative and sustainable bio-based thermoset composites with advanced functionalities: reparability, reprocessability and recyclability (3R). Both the sustainable matrix and reinforcement materials are developed within the project. Manufactured parts will be validated for the demanding construction and automotive sectors.
Commonly used epoxy systems are composed of infusible, non-reprocessable thermoset matrices and reinforcement fibres like glass or carbon fibre. In ECOXY, conventional hardeners are substituted by dynamic hardeners, giving the materials the innovative 3R properties.
Additionally, fossil-fuel-derived epoxy resins are being substituted by sustainable epoxy resins and natural and/or bio-based fibres are being used as an alternative to glass fibre.
In the first months of the project, bio-based and/or sustainable thermoset matrices showing 3R properties were successfully synthesized at lab scale and showed good compatibility with the developed bio-based and natural fibres. The synthesis of sustainable epoxy resin is now being up-scaled to prepare larger samples and demonstrators.
