New Research Results Highlights the Potential of Modified Lignin-PLA Blends for Sustainable 3D Printing
The Vinnova Competence centre FibRe has entered an exciting new phase and we, AB Karl Hedin Bio Innovation, has joined the centre as a new partner. FibRe is a collaboration between Chalmers and KTH, and AB Karl Hedin Bio Innovation join the second phase along with Autoform, Ahlstrom, Axfoundation, Billerud, Excillum, Nolato, Nordic SeaFarm, Skogsindustrierna, Svensk Hampaindustri, Unilever and Woodcomposite. Partners remaining from Phase I are AstraZeneca, Battenfeld, Essity, Fasadglas, IKEA, Nouryon, Packbridge, Stiftelsen Chalmers Industriteknik, Stora Enso and Tetra Pak.
Following Phase I, which enhanced fibre deformability through plasticisation and chemical modification, Phase II aims to achieve higher technical readiness levels (TRL 3-4) and rigorously consider techno-economic aspects. Research focuses on three primary tracks — modification, advanced characterisation, and predictive processing — with industry-led demonstrator projects in extrusion/injection moulding and thermoforming. Key objectives include developing modifications that aid thermoprocessing of lignocellulose-based materials, structure-property models, methods with spatial resolution on nm to mm scale to detect effects of modifications, a comprehensive material library, and recycling techniques. In addition, demonstrator projects will during Phase II bridge fundamental research and practical applications, enhancing industry relevance and partner engagement.
Phenolated-lignin
New Research Results Highlights the Potential of Modified Lignin-PLA Blends for Sustainable 3D Printing
A recent study explored the use of tailored lignin, an aromatic biomacromolecule, in polymer blends with poly(lactic acid) (PLA) for additive manufacturing. Filament blends containing high lignin content (30–70%) were successfully processed and 3D-printed using fused deposition modeling (FDM). The materials showed promising recyclability, retaining mechanical properties for up to three re-extrusion cycles. Notably, phenolated organosolv lignin outperformed kraft lignins in printability across a range of compositions, while maintaining comparable thermal and mechanical performance. These findings underscore the potential tailoring lignin properties for lignin-based blends in advancing sustainable and recyclable 3D printing materials.