BIOMASS VALORIZATION FOR SUSTAINABLE AND HIGH QUALITY FIBER MATERIALS

Bio-LUSH addresses a growing need and demand to utilize underexploited biomass feedstocks for sustainable and high-quality fibre extraction. Within the project, we will establish innovative processes for optimal biomass refining and fibrillation to nanoscale to convert obtained sustainable fibres into functional biobased materials. Along with hemp hurd and forest residues, selection of other green underexplored biomass feedstocks (nettle and seagrasses) was based on availability in Europe as well as ecological benefits such as utilization of marginal lands, biodiversity protection and without competing with food production. Also, traditional breeding through crosses will be used to improve the agronomical and fiber yield properties of the identified “novel crops”. Certification procedures and a standardization roadmap will be established in a form of nanocellulose quality index to assure effective benchmarking within the obtained (nano)fibres. Moreover, the results of advanced characterization of feedstock, fibers and biobased products will be collected in dataset to employ machine learning tools to design biobased materials based on fibres properties. We will demonstrate the biomass processing and manufacturing (both at TRL5) of biobased products such as edible packaging, antibacterial textiles and 3D printable bio(nano)composite filaments for impact resistant car interior products. The Bio-LUSH consortium brings together actors from the entire value chain, comprised of 12 partners from 8 countries including 7 industry partners (3 SMEs, 4 LEs), who will ensure that the developed solutions will be industrially viable (environmentally, economically, socially). Bio-LUSH includes activities on enhancement of social acceptance of the materials to facilitate the route to market, which will be supported by a dedicated business plan. Integration of Agro sector/farmer communities and access to EU feedstock is ensured through advisory board member, Bast Fibre Technology.