Putting more nature on paper – New joint project launched

Paper-based construction materials, in the form of packaging materials, are an integral part of our everyday lives. In order to make paper usable for these and new applications, the material's hydrophobic and antimicrobial properties must be improved. In contrast to currently used improvement strategies, plasma polymerization is to be used to deposit low-molecular compounds of biogenic origin on paper surfaces. By crosslinking them during coating, it will be possible to apply insoluble polymers to complex surfaces with contour fidelity and in pure form.

Plant ingredients represent a diverse and hitherto untapped source of biogenic precursors for plasma coatings. In the project, various plant materials as well as residues and by-products of wood processing (e.g. bark and sapwood of robinia (Robinia pseudoacacia)) will be investigated with regard to their suitability for plasma coating. By demonstrating their material and ecological advantages, the research project will make a significant contribution to supplementing biorefinery concepts with further utilization options and creating income alternatives for producers and processors of lignocelluloses.

Partner:

Technische Universität Darmstadt, Macromolecular and Paper Chemistry

Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films

Duration: 01.05.2021 – 30.04.2024