EU product shows ways to effectively use these hemicellulose-rich by-products of pulp mills

In Belgium, pulp mills generate by-products rich in hemicellulose. Currently, these by-products hold little commercial value owing to the complexities involved in isolating and purifying hemicellulose carbohydrates. However, the high hemicellulose content in wood represents an untapped resource for creating valuable products and generating significant revenue for biorefineries. The EU-funded VEHICLE project showcased innovative methods to effectively use these hemicellulose-rich by-products.

Project partners established new value chains across Europe to supply these plant-based chemicals for various industrial applications and consumer products. These included packaging materials, pulp and paper products, and bioplastics-based goods. The objective was to enhance the business potential of existing and future European biorefineries and other bioeconomy companies, creating economic benefits and new jobs within their value chains.

Project partner activities also resulted in the development of seven new bio-based consumer products. These included bio-PET for plastic bottles, bio-polyesters for films in packaging materials, compostable bioplastics for extrusion paper coating and thermoformed trays, antifreeze fluids for aircraft and heat transfer fluids for engine protection and solar panels.