The replacement of petrochemicals by those obtained from renewable resources is an important step to improve sustainability. In just two years of intensive and open collaboration between Empa and Datwyler Schweiz AG in the framework of the Innosuisse project, a successful system was developed that connected the worlds of cellulose and rubber, A renewable cellulose additive.
The replacement of petrochemicals by those obtained from renewable resources is an important step to improve sustainability. Materials derived from wood cellulose are promising for this application area. They are renewable, abundant and have a low (A renewable cellulose additive) environmental impact. In the rubber industry, microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is receiving a lot of attention due to its high density, fibril morphology, low density and mechanical properties. Therefore, it has a high potential to improve the properties of rubber compounds.
However, it is difficult to mix MFC with hydrophobic, i.e. water-repellent, rubbers. Together with its development partner Empa, Daetwyler has developed a manufacturing process for the surface modification of MFC to overcome this challenge. The first attempt was to use a modified MFC to replace the petrochemical aramid fiber.
The results show a good compatibility between the MFC coating and the rubber matrix with a strong reinforcing effect, even that obtained with petroleum-based aramid fibers. The development of these new fixtures will be an important step in increasing the durability of rubber products such as pump diaphragms.
Two years from research to corporate implementation
In just two years of intensive and open collaboration between Empa and Datwyler Schweiz AG within the framework of the Innosuisse project, a successful system was created that connects the worlds of cellulose and rubber. In this short time, it is possible to cover the entire arc, from research to industrial implementation.
“This project is a good example of the value of Innosuisse’s support for such successful new projects, which not only strengthen the economy and promote their own companies through new products and process, but also Switzerland in general,” says Thomas, the researcher and Empa Geiger.
