Circular economy and sustainability
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW HIGHLY SUSTAINABLE BIOMATERIALS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO ANIMAL LEATHER
V-LEATHER
Motivation
The market for biogenic and synthetic alternatives to replace animal leather with vegan solutions is growing. There is also a clear trend towards replacing petrochemical-based raw materials with those from biological and renewable sources.
On the other hand, leather alternatives possess characteristic colours, of similar shades. This project aims to work on different sustainable processes to modify and extend the range of colours and textures obtained from the new materials.
Objectives
The main objective of the project is to research new functional biomaterials for different fields as an alternative to animal leather. The solutions obtained during the project will be oriented towards the textile sector, specifically upholstery and fashion accessories.
Value and competitive advantage
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Development of skin-like biomaterials with enhanced technical properties.
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Materials based on renewable and biodegradable sources, capable of promoting a circular-economy model by using agri-food waste.
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Balance between bio-based content, competitive cost, and technical performance, reducing dependence on fossil raw materials.
Obtained results
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Development of alginate-based biomaterials reinforced with agri-food waste, featuring mechanical properties close to commercial leathers and customizable according to the mold.
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Optimization of the synthesis of bio-based polyurethane systems using biopolyols from vegetable oils, reaching up to 75% bio-based content in aqueous dispersions.
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Bio-based polyurethane was formulated with vegetable flours and natural colorants, achieving up to 81% bio-based content without losing properties.
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The addition of flours and colorants allows cost control and modification of the appearance of the coatings.
Grant number: IMAMCA/2024/6
Programme: Plan of non-economic activities 2024
Period of execution: January 2024 – December 2024
Status: In progress
More information: PLAN OF ACTION
Entity: IVACE
Project supported by the Conselleria Conselleria de Innovación, Industria, Comercio y Turismo de la Generalitat Valenciana, through IVACE
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R&D AREAS
New high-performance functionalised materials
Circular economy and sustainability
Advanced manufacturing, smart textiles and digitalisation
High value-added solutions for strategic markets
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