Towards Net Zero with UPM BioMotion™ Renewable Functional Fillers

Algol Chemicals' partner, UPM Biochemicals', UPM BioMotion™ RFF significantly increases the renewable material content of rubber and plastic compounds while reducing global warming potential. By replacing fossil-based materials like carbon black, the environmental impact of final products can be improved by over 50%. Combined with other renewable materials, such as bio-based polymers and process oils, even CO₂-negative compounds are possible.

UPM BioMotion™ RFF has a much lower material density of 1.3 g/cm³, over 25% lower than carbon black. This allows for a significant reduction in the weight of the final product, achieving weight savings of 20% or more. Lower compound densities lead to reduced consumption of CO₂-intensive raw materials, further improving the carbon footprint.

​​Functional fillers make up approximately 30% of a tire's composition, typically including materials like carbon black. An initial test series by Nokian Tyres has shown that substituting these functional fillers with UPM BioMotion™ RFF holds significant promise for creating more sustainable tires. This innovation represents an important step towards sustainable mobility. Notably, Nokian Tyres will be the first tire manufacturer to integrate UPM’s Renewable Functional Fillers into their concept tire. (UPM Biochemicals Press Release of 27.6.2024.)

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Climate Benefits - UPM BioMotion™ RFF combined with other renewable materials, even CO₂-negative compounds are possible

The shift from fossil-based to renewable materials is vital for sectors like automotive, construction, and packaging. The rubber and plastics industry must reduce its CO₂ footprint, and UPM BioMotion™ RFF provides an effective solution.

By replacing CO₂-intensive materials like carbon black these fillers can cut the environmental impact of products by over 50%.

Additionally, with a lower material density of 1.3 g/cm³, UPM BioMotion™ RFF significantly reduces the weight of final products, leading to a lower consumption of CO₂-intensive raw materials and further improving the carbon footprint.

Boost sustainability in Plastics and Rubber with UPM BioMotion™ RFF

  • Versatile and Sustainable: UPM BioMotion™ RFF enhances thermoplastics, making them suitable for diverse applications including packaging, consumer electronics, automotive, and household items.
  • Recyclability: Unlike carbon black, UPM BioMotion™ RFF allows NIR detection, enabling sorting and recycling of black-colored plastics.
  • Efficient Pigmentation: Provides a unique black color with a slightly reddish and yellowish tone. Most efficient are loadings up to 3–5 wt%.
  • ​​​High Purity: It doesn't contain PAHs above the thresholds of Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1272/2013 and possesses only a very low sulfur content of smaller than 0.2%.
  • Thermal Stability: Maintains excellent thermal stability and oxidation resistance through multiple recycling cycles, ensuring high-quality recycled materials.
  • Easy Processing: Can be added directly during extrusion or as a masterbatch, improving carbon footprint and renewable content.
  • Functional Filler: Enhances stiffness, reduces carbon footprint, and maintains easy processing up to 260°C without strong odors.
  • Biodegradability: Suitable for industrial, home, soil, and marine composting, compliant with DIN EN 13432 and DIN EN ISO 224031 standards.
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