BioSPRINT - bio-based synthetic resins made from hemicellulose

BioSPRINT focuses on four research and development areas. In the first step, the processes for the extraction and purification of the hemicellulose streams are to be intensified. This is followed by the catalytic conversion, the purification of the intermediate products and, in the last stage, the polymerization. Innovative anti-solvent precipitation methods and membrane separation processes are to be used in the development of the integrated purification strategy. In the field of catalysis, the focus is on intensified and integrated catalysis processes for the dehydrogenation of C5 and C6 hemicellulose sugars to monomers and extractive reactions, as well as intensified polymerization processes for furan derivatives.

Ultimately, the project aims to reduce operating costs and the use of raw materials and energy over the next four years, while at the same time increasing yields and operational reliability. For this purpose, the work is accompanied by an integrated Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA). The waste streams are provided by project partners such as Fraunhofer and UPM; In addition, a case study is to be carried out on a residual material flow from Clariant. A total of 12 partners are participating in the project coordinated by DECHEMA, which has a financial volume of 6.1 million euros.

(Source: https://nachrichten.idw-online.de/2020/07/13/eu-projekt-biosprint-biobasierte-kunstharze-aus-hemicellulose/; 30.09.2020)