The DITF are one of the world's leading institutes in the development of technical fibers and materials based on biopolymers. This research work is bundled in the Competence Center Biopolymer Materials. Biopolymer materials are gaining in importance because they make a significant contribution to climate protection. Sustainability and climate protection are central strategies of the EU and the German government, which is why research on Biopolymers at the DITF plays a major role. Novel technologies can reduce energy consumption and the use of fossil raw materials in key industrial sectors.
Renewable biopolymers such as cellulose, alginate, keratin and chitin are also available in unlimited quantities as domestic raw materials. New highly-effective solvents, e.g. from the class of ionic liquids (ILs), enable processing into technical fibers that can be used as reinforcing fibers. This opens the way to new processes for the production of technical biopolymer materials, also for lightweight construction, which are characterized by a favorable CO2 balance. As a direct dissolution process, IL technology is not only environmentally-friendly but also sustainable. All materials used for the production of technical yarns are completely recycled.
Range of services:
- Production of sustainable materials based on biopolymers such as cellulose, chitin, keratin, alginate and lignin
- New processes for the production of biopolymer fibers for technical use
- New wet spinning processes for the production of biopolymer fibers for technical applications
- Development of composite reinforcing fibers based on cellulose
- Development of carbon fibers from cellulose and lignin precursors
- Single component composites from biopolymers
Technologies:
- Ionic Liquids (IL) technology for processing biopolymers
- Stabilization technology for the production of carbon fibers from biopolymers
- Stabilization of cellulose precursors through the use of low-pressure furnaces
- Purcell winding process for the production of composite tubes and beams
- Concrete reinforcement: use of high-strength regenerated cellulose fibers for the production of prestressed concrete
- Technology for the production of advanced ceramics from cellulose