The bioplastics used are comparable to conventional plastics in terms of quality and processability, but with a significantly lower ecological footprint.
Initial tests with the laser cutter are convincing
In initial tests with laser cutting and laser engraving, the new materials showed excellent results. The bioplastics are made from renewable raw materials and are - with one exception - biodegradable. They are easy to process and burn much cleaner than conventional plastics. This not only improves environmental and health protection, but also reduces the amount of cleaning required. Only the so-called weatherproof biopanel (light brown sheet) is not biodegradable, but is still made from renewable raw materials.
Sustainability meets functionality
The quality and processability of the bioplastics are comparable to conventional materials. The response to variants with a natural fibre content was particularly positive - their interesting feel was convincing in the first student prototyping projects. The tests show: Sustainability and functionality are not mutually exclusive.
Commitment and expertise
Niklas Müller, Laboratory Manager at the Innovation Space, provided intensive support for the project. He identified suitable bioplastics, carried out extensive tests and produced sample cards to support the students: “It was important to me that the new materials were not only sustainable, but also met the high demands of prototyping. The tests have shown that we have found a real alternative to conventional plastics here.”
Availability for students and start-up teams
The selected bioplastics are now available to all HNU students and start-up teams for their projects in the Innovation Space.
