It is produced in a process that is very similar to baking bread. This innovation could replace traditional petroleum products in many industries - and thus make a decisive contribution to the circular economy.
A wide range of applications - from cars to helmets
Cellulose is plant-based, sustainable and available in large quantities. According to Stefan Spirk from the Institute for Biobased Products and Paper Technology at Graz University of Technology, it is "important to utilise sustainability potential in as many areas as possible".
Potential applications include
- Automotive sector: energy management in the event of accidents, as an alternative in crash areas
- Building industry: Use as an insulating material with high moisture and sound insulation
- Sports & leisure: foam for sports shoes, helmets, boards and more.
Production in various densities enables flexible use - lightly cushioning or stable, depending on requirements.
Research meets practice: simulations & demonstrators
The team used detailed simulations to understand the relationship between fibre structure and foam thickness. The material was tested under dynamic load using a special test rig at Graz University of Technology. This resulted in prototypes such as skateboards, bodyboards, bicycle helmets and shoe insoles. A density inhomogeneity deliberately built into the foam proved to be an advantage: in bicycle helmets, it reduces torsional stress on the brain - similar to modern MIPS helmets.
From project to start-up: FOAMO makes it possible
The BreadCell consortium comprises Chalmers University (project leader), Graz University of Technology, the University of Vienna, Tecnalia (Spain) and BioNanoNet (Graz). An initial application has already reached the market with the spin-off FOAMO - the company produces lightweight and cushioning shoe insoles based on the new foam.
This innovative, plant-based foam could herald a new era in the world of materials - away from crude oil and towards sustainable solutions. Its broad usability in vehicles, construction, the sports industry and beyond shows that it is less a theoretical approach and more a tangible, practical innovation.
#schongenial when you discover that a renewable raw material like cellulose can help replace petroleum-based foams.
