Circular composites for bathrooms: From sink to basin

Composites are heterogeneous materials consisting of a plastic matrix and a filler. The type of plastic matrix can vary and both thermoplastic and thermoset plastics are suitable. Adding filler to the plastic can have a positive effect on mechanical properties by increasing tensile and compressive resistance.  

Composites have been used for decades in various product groups. The type of material is essential within sectors such as recreation (e.g. boat construction), aerospace (e.g. aircraft construction), the automotive and renewable energy sectors (e.g. wind turbines) and residential construction (e.g. façade panels or bathroom furniture). Additional reasons for this choice are desired weight savings, corrosion resistance, longevity or design freedom. Currently, the global composites market is growing significantly, at 4-5% per year, with the Dutch composites market accounting for 7% of the total European market value. 

Reason 

Within the Dutch industrial climate, circularity of raw materials is becoming increasingly important. To achieve this, parts can be designed for recycling on the one hand, but on the other hand, biobased materials can be chosen, or both options optimally applied. Recycling composites remains complicated to date because of the heterogeneous nature and intrinsic durability of the material. Moreover, 'green' variants of common thermoset plastics have already been launched on the market, but these resins are usually only 50 ~ 70% biobased. This means there is room for improvement in terms of recyclability and the use of bio-based composite matrices. 

What problem does the project solve?