Applications

The bio-based solutions developed in SuperBark are aimed at transforming the sustainability and safety profiles of adhesives and coatings commonly used in wood and paper products for a range of applications.

Adhesives for wood panels

SuperBark develops innovative adhesive formulations with at least 95% bio-based content for use in plywood, particleboard, and medium density fibreboard (MDF).

By combining polyphenols extracted from softwood bark with bio-based hardeners, our project seeks to ensure performance of the new adhesives while avoiding the use of carcinogenic compounds typically used in formaldehyde-based adhesives for wood panels. In addition, bark-based cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and phosphorylated polyphenols are used as additives in selected adhesive formulations. The wood panels are studied for recyclability into new particleboards and/or biodegradability in composting facilities.

Our solutions

Bark-based non-isocyanate polyurethane (NIPU) adhesives for plywood
Bioadhesives based on bark polyphenols and biohardeners for plywood and particleboard
Bark-based CNF as reinforcing agent and phosphorylated polyphenols as flame retardants for MDF

Industries: Furniture, transportation, construction, chemicals

Coatings for wood-based products

The coating solutions from SuperBark use 100% bio-based alkyd binders together with bark-based CNF and polyphenols to enhance surface properties and weathering stability of wood-based panels. We add abrasion and scratch resistance to plywood through CNF integration and improve surface hardness through polyphenol crosslinking. We also ensure long-lasting protection to weathering without harmful chemicals and further exploit the antimicrobial properties of bark-based polyphenols, while aiming for biodegradability of the coatings in composting facilities.

Our solutions

Heavy-duty surface treatment for transportation plywood
Wood products for exterior use with improved weathering and antimicrobial properties

Industries: Furniture, transportation, construction

Barrier coatings for paper-based packaging

SuperBark addresses the growing need for sustainable packaging solutions by developing advanced barrier coatings from bark-based CNF and other bio-based polymers for packaging paper, without using fossil-based compounds or toxic chemicals such as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS). The coatings ensure stronger bonding to paper surfaces and block oxygen and water vapor penetration, while also increasing the recyclability and biodegradability of the packaging products. The final product is especially targeted for fat and greasy food products for short- and long-term storage.

Our solutions

Barrier coatings from bark-based CNF for packaging paper and other fibre-based materials.

Industries: Packaging, food, forest

Open access online tool for bark-based adhesives and coatings

During the project, system dynamics modelling, and data analytics are applied across the entire value chain of SuperBark, from bark extraction and component properties to material development and end-product performance. An open-access online tool is developed to allow stakeholders to evaluate the feasibility and economic potential of using softwood bark for adhesives and/or coatings. The tool also allows a holistic evaluation of social and environmental dimensions.

Our solutions

Open access tool to support scale-up and market entry of the bark-based materials in adhesive and coating manufacturing for wood and packaging products.

Industries: Forest, chemicals, coatings, packaging