Rampf Group probes lignin use for PU applications
Grafenberg, Germany — Rampf Polymer Solutions and Rampf Eco Solutions have joined the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) Pro Lignin project.
The project aims to substitute fossil raw materials with industrially available by-product lignin for manufacturing polyurethane soft molded foams, casting resins, insulating foams, and integral foams.
Frank Dursen, director of R&D Future and Sustainability at the Rampf Group, said: “We discovered that only extremely pure lignins without high levels of ash or carbohydrate are suitable for making high-quality polyurethane products.”
Up to 20% lignin was used in the A components of the moulded foams. “This achieved an increase in the Shore values and improved compression recovery,” added Dursen.
The Rampf Group divisions are also investigating how these can be used in adhesive, coating, polyurethane, and epoxy systems. “We have already developed some potential product applications. We see the greatest potential in insulating and integral foams, casting materials, and adhesives,” said Dursen.