LignEasy’s technology utilizes lignin, a natural byproduct of the paper and pulp industry, to create high-performance bio-based materials. Lignin is a complex polymer that is often discarded as waste, but it possesses unique properties that make it a valuable resource for various applications. The company’s technology converts lignin into a range of bio-based materials, including bio-plastics, bio-composites, and bio-adhesives.
Apparently, in the plastics sector alone, achieving the net zero target by 2050 will require an annual production of 100-230 million tonnes of bioplastics, compared to the current global production of 2 million tonnes. LignEasy’s technology seeks to play an important role in meeting this demand. The company says that unlike existing lignin separation systems that can cause harmful sulfate discharge to the environment, it uses a sulfuric-acid-free separation technology and a novel filtration-based purification method. This is said to produce high-value lignin, reduce pulp mill emissions and provide the chemical industry with a renewable feedstock in the form of an odourless, bio-based raw material available as liquid concentrate or dried powder. LignEasy adds that the lignin is ready for direct use in several products or possible chemical modification for a broader range of applications.
Jonas Nordlund, investment manager at EIT InnoEnergy Scandinavia, commented: “We believe that LignEasy will play a significant role in decarbonizing multiple industries, and we are delighted to welcome them into our portfolio. Their innovative approach to lignin separation not only addresses the significant wastage in kraft pulp mills but also opens up new avenues for sustainable bioproducts, transforming lignin from a waste product into a valuable resource.” Juho-Matti Karpale, CEO at LignEasy, added: “There are currently major issues with lignin wastage; a technology gap in achieving separation sustainably; and a pressing need to provide the chemical industry with eco-friendly alternatives to fossil-based raw materials. Our technology delivers solutions to these problems, and with access to EIT InnoEnergy’s ecosystem, we are now better placed than ever before to deliver them to the market.”
In similar news, Swedish greentech company Lignin Industries AB announced the mass commercialisation of its Renol technology in June, a biobased material developed from lignin, often found in trees. Renol is said to have industrial uses such as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyethylene (PE), and Polypropylene (PP); which includes domestic goods, automotive, consumer electronics, and PE films among other applications. Shellworks is a finalist in this year’s Sustainability Awards with its Vivomer bio-based tub made from microorganisms, nominated in the Commercialized Renewable Materials category. The ‘Tubbies’ are suitable for food and personal care products, and are available in a range of 15ml, 30ml, 50ml, and 100ml sizes.
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