InnoVatIve processing Technologies for bio-based foAmed thermopLastics
vital project
project Summary
VITAL will develop innovative thermoplastic processing solutions for foamed thermoplastics, based on three b-bTP processing value chains: 3D printing process based on granulated feedstocks; Bead foaming process and a Foam Injection Moulding (FIM) process.
For foamed thermoplastic processing value chains to make the transition to sustainable, circular economy based on bio-based solutions it is imperative that the critical limitations are overcome. VITAL is an important step on this journey as it will (for the first time) create innovative high efficiency, low-cost processing solutions and key enabling knowledge to achieve commercially viable “Sustainable by Design “approaches based on b-bTPs. Adoption of the VITAL outputs across the polymer processing sector, along with the vocational training programme, will therefore make it easier for manufacturers to adopt b-bTPs commercially, achieving a paradigm shift towards bio-based alternatives for cleaner, more climate neutral industrial value chains. VITAL will stimulate the uptake of sustainable-by-design advanced materials and processes, not just by overcoming technical limitations but by achieving “buy-in” from processors, OEMs and customers, all of whom are represented in the consortium.
14
PARTNERS
7
COUNTRIES
5.623.019 €
BUDGET
7
USE CASES
A POSITIVE IMPACT
VITAL aims to generate fundamental knowledge and expertise that will underpin future European activities to substitute existing synthetic thermoplastics with those from bio-based sources and in so doing, enable the European the polymer processing sector to achieve a paradigm shift towards bio-based alternatives for cleaner, more climate neutral industrial value chains.
Project Overview
VITAL is proposing a disruptive innovation that will bring foamed thermoplastic processing value chains to make the transition to sustainable, circular economy.
VITAL will create innovative high efficiency, low-cost processing solutions and key enabling knowledge to achieve commercially viable “Sustainable by Design” approaches based on b-bTPs.
VITAL will achieve commercially viable closed loop, mechanical recycling taking into consideration the specific requirements for b-bTPs
Technical aspects
VITAL will use advanced techniques such as Digital Twin and AI control within the Foam Injection Moulding processing approach for b-bTPs.
Also, mechanical recycling approach will be digitally optimized by using digital modelling approach for intelligent optimisation of engineering features.
What our members say
Testimonials
I am delighted to be working with this project consortium, I believe we have the right combination of expertise and value chain partners to really drive this technology development through to market. We are at a transition point in Europe were if we make the right choices now and move to lower environmental impact Circular Economy approaches we can really secure a healthy and prosperous future.
Lisa Wikström
VTT, Vital Project Coordinator
In order to achieve the CO2 emission reduction targets, we see a growing interest from the entire industry to use products with a lower carbon footprint. This project will be an enabler for us to satisfy this need by establishing low-carbon footprint biobased polymers as valid alternatives to traditional polymers in demanding end applications.
Dr. Jan Sültemeyer
Avient, Global Sustainability Leader
I am excited to work on this project. Thanks to the combination of experts that make up the consortium, I will learn and develop new skills as a junior profile. I am excited to be able to do my part in reducing contamination by participating in projects like this that promote the circular economy and recycling on a large scale.
LUcía Gálvez
IDENER, R&D ENGINEER JUNIOR
