Composites

Search line summary 

The aim of this line of research is the use of biogenic resources to develop industrial applications in the field of materials such as the manufacture of bio composite materials. Specifically, the research focuses on transforming biogenic waste (cellulosic or keratin) into technical materials that can be handled industrially through low-cost stabilization pre-treatments with minimal environmental impact. This stabilized waste can be mixed with polymers to obtain bio composites or “green” composites. In any case, the goal is to improve the efficiency of the use of natural resources.

Main lines of research

• Recovery of biogenic waste (cellulose, keratin) for different industrial applications.
• Physic and/or chemical pre-treatments to the waste stabilization.
• Manufacture of bio composite materials of polymeric matrix.
• Structural and mechanical characterization of bio composites materials.
• Chemical treatments to improve components compatibility.

Projects / Agreements

Bio composites 100% biodegradable

• Composite material made from a biodegradable polymer (lactic polyacid) and a stabilized residue of chicken feathers. This bio composite reduces the use of polymer matrix by up to 30% v/v and obtains 100% biodegradable and lighter material.
• Bio composite material made from a biodegradable polymer (cellulose butyrate acetate) and a textile fibre of regenerate cellulose.

Services

• Mixing and forming by compression of composite materials.
• Polymers analysis for spectroscopy FTIR and UV-Vis.
• Optical and electron microscopy.
• Surface analysis by contact angle.
• Tensile Mechanical properties.
• Sound absorption coefficient with Kundt tube.