Technology for Wood and Natural Fiber-Based Materials

What will we use to make lightweight wood-based materials when there is no longer any spruce? In collaboration with the University of Göttingen, we are developing high-performance lightweight materials from hardwood. In doing so, we are contributing towards the efficient utilization of semi-natural mixed forests. The wood-based materials industry can benefit from the sustainable raw-material security and new marketing opportunities.

In order to enable a more extensive utilization of wood-based materials in high-rise construction and public buildings, flame-retardant treatment is necessary. In this project, we are developing a bio-adhesive on the basis of lignin, which simultaneously serves as a flame retardant. Furthermore, we are thereby opening up an ecologically and economically interesting application possibility for lignin.

With its unique structure and chemistry, the Canary Island pine defies forest fires. An outstanding performance by Mother Nature! We have taken this as our role model and are developing a fire-retardant structure based on nanocellulose. As a component of wood coatings, it is intended to provide wooden components, both indoors and outdoors, with effective fire protection which will remain weatherproof for many years. 

How can the utilization of wood resources be optimized in such a way that the smallest-possible amount of forest area is used in order to build a house? What building materials are needed for this purpose and what can be saved through recycling? What ecological and economic advantages does this bring for urban and rural areas? The aim in this international project is to build two demonstration houses. At the Fraunhofer WKI, we are developing flame-retardant bio-materials for this purpose.

In this project, we are developing flame-retardant, heat and impact resistant bioplastics and biocomposites which which can be processed by means of injection molding and 3D printing. Products such as light switches, sockets, motion detectors, cable ducts or charging stations for electric vehicles could soon be produced from biomaterials. 

Wind energy is a mainstay of the energy revolution. The technical reliability of wind turbines is therefore constantly gaining in importance. Conventional inspection procedures require direct access to the rotor blades. Together with our project partners, we are striving within this project to achieve a simpler solution: inspection by means of a drone and passive thermography. 

The rotor blades of wind-energy turbines are subjected to high mechanical loads during operation. Material defects such as defective bonding and cracks can have severe consequences. Until now, only inspection from the outside has been possible. In cooperation with a number of research and industry partners, we are therefore developing a thermography robot for internal inspection purposes.