Sports equipment such as bicycle helmets are usually made of several materials such as polycarbonate, polystyrene foam, polypropylene and nylon. The combination of different materials makes them particularly difficult to recycle. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT have now developed an alternative to these petroleum-based materials as part of a project funded by the Fraunhofer Future Foundation.
Reducing the material footprint
The researchers questioned the principle of manufacturing each component from a specific material. In this way, they arrived at new, sustainable production approaches. The bio-based and recyclable plastic PLA is particularly suitable for this. Thanks to its technical properties and competitive price, it has been established on the market for several years. PLA has a material footprint that is up to eight times smaller than the materials used to date.
Polylactide in combination with reinforcing layers
By combining polylactide (PLA)-based materials with self-reinforcing cover layers and films, technical, structurally relevant components can be produced from renewable raw materials that are also highly recyclable. Innovative and sustainable material solutions in the field of sporting goods, such as bicycle helmets and surfboards, provide a clear example of this.