Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research
Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut WKI

In collaboration with Porsche Motorsport and Four Motors, researchers at the Fraunhofer WKI have succeeded in replacing the carbon fibers in a car door with natural fibers. This is already being installed in small series at Porsche. The project team is now taking the next step: Together with HOBUM Oleochemicals, they want to maximize the proportion of renewable raw materials in the door and other body parts - using bio-based plastics and paints.

During the BAU ONLINE 2021, researchers from the Fraunhofer WKI will demonstrate the versatility of the possibilities for replacing petrochemical raw materials or concrete with renewable resources - by means of 3D models of a stand-up paddleboard and a ceiling system module.

Researchers at the Fraunhofer WKI are developing a stand-up paddleboard with a lightweight sandwich element made from renewable raw materials. For the core, balsa wood from disused wind-energy rotor blades is being used - a sustainable solution for their high-quality recycling. The outer shell consists of bioplastics which are reinforced with regionally available flax fibers. 

An interdisciplinary research team from six Fraunhofer Institutes, including the Fraunhofer WKI, has developed a visionary vehicle concept. It reached the final of the ideas competition “#NEXTGen Moving Tomorrow Pitch” of the car company BMW and made it into the top three. The team continues to pursue the concept with the objective it being adopted and implemented by the automotive industry.

October 12 to 14, 2022
Hamburg, Germany

Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research
Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut WKI

Bienroder Weg 54E
38108 Braunschweig

Phone +49 531 2155-0
Fax +49 531 2155-334

Email: info@wki.fraunhofer.de