Today, binders are largely based on components of fossil origin. Stora Enso has created a binder, NeoLigno® by Stora Enso - Bio-based materials | Stora Enso NeoLigno® by Stora Enso, which is made of bio-based materials. Stora Enso together with RISE, IsoTimber, and Moelven, have proven that the bio-based binder works in construction elements on industrial scale, making them 100% fossil-free.
NeoLigno® by Stora Enso is a binder made from lignin, which is an organic polymer present in all land-living plants, such as trees. Lignin is the natural binder in wood, it keeps the fibers together and protects the material from rotting. NeoLigno® is bio-based and free from formaldehyde and isocyanate.
For two and a half years, Stora Enso, RISE, IsoTimber, and Moelven have worked together in a project with the aim to produce fossil-free construction boards and elements. The cooperation is based on the partners’ common desire to reduce carbon footprint in the construction industry. Together, the partners have been able to scale up the production of fossil-free construction plywood from lab scale to pilot scale and fossil-free construction elements from pilot scale to industrial scale.
“When IsoTimber contacted us and asked for options to make construction panels fossil-free, we started to look around. We quickly discovered that Stora Enso was actively working on a new product called NeoLigno® that could be tested right away. What we needed then was a manufacturer who also saw the value in developing their products, and that's when we contacted Moelven. Together, we have the entire chain, from glue manufacturers to users of construction boards, all with a strong positive attitude towards wanting to reduce the construction industry's carbon footprint,” says Magdalena Sterley, Expert in gluing of wood at RISE.
“In this co-operation with IsoTimber, Moelven, and RISE, we have developed fossil-free construction panels and elements, with commercial potential. We are very happy with the results so far,” says Sara Fäldt, R&D Specialist at Stora Enso, and continues: “I am happy and proud to see that the project has fulfilled the high expectations we set in the beginning; that it is possible to produce plywood and elements for construction purpose with our bio-based binder NeoLigno®.”
Delivering strong results
By applying and evaluating the lignin-based binder, the partners can demonstrate good results when using a fossil-free alternative. Together, they have been able to scale up the production of fossil-free plywood from lab scale to pilot scale and fossil-free construction panels from pilot scale to industrial scale. The tests carried out by RISE show that the products meet all requirements for both strength and water resistance.
“We always strive to make our products better and reduce our carbon footprint. Here we have an opportunity to combine forest-based raw materials in a fantastic way and thus reduce our carbon footprint. The good results demonstrated by the project promise good for the future,” says Tjalling Chaudron, Product Developer at Moelven.
About IsoTimber
IsoTimber is a Swedish company who manufactures and sells a prefabricated unique timber wall system, that is load bearing and insulated by air channels.
About Moelven
Moelven is a Scandinavian industrial group that produces building products and systems for the construction industry.
About RISE
RISE is Sweden’s research institute and innovation partner, who ensures the competitiveness of the Swedish business community on an international level and contributes to a sustainable society.
