Researchers partially replace fossil phenol with bio-based lignin in resins

In Ohio, in the framework of Bio4Products, scientists at Hexion, a global leader for phenolic specialty resins, have succeeded in partially replacing fossil phenol with bio-based lignin in resins. Two applications seem very promising: insulating foams and molding compounds.

Tests of the mechanical properties should ensure that the bio molding compound has the same performance as the phenol based one. The researchers used compression and tension tests to evaluate the reactions of the molding compounds to crushing and determine the breaking points of the material and its elongation.

A second promising use case is the application of lignin resins in insulating foams. One of the most important properties of these foams is long-lasting protection in case of a building fire. In a fire test, the new foam is exposed to a heat of over 1,000 degrees. Even after five minutes of exposure to heat, the material remains stable.

Although lignin is not yet as reactive as fossil phenols in all areas, Bio4Products research proves that a transformation to a bioeconomy will be possible in the near future.