UPM Formi EcoAce SPB30
What is it?
A biocomposite containing certified wood and cellulose fibres (30%) and biobased (on a mass-balance basis) polypropylene (70%) sourced from biofuels. The bionaphtha (BioVerno) production, based on tall oil from wood, is certified as sustainable by ISCC. The wood fibres are sourced from PEFC-certified, sustainably managed forest. These fibres are side streams and residues of wood and pulp processing; no additional tree harvesting is needed. Additional grades contain 40% (SPB40) and 50% (SPB50) fibres.
Material Properties
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Tensile strength (MPa): 55
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Tensile modulus (MPa): 3500
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Elongation at break (%): 6
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Density (kg/dm3): 1.03
Link to the technical data-sheet
Technical Benefits
Despite its content of natural fibres, it has material properties similar to fossil-based plastics, and similar moulding techniques can be used. Cellulose fibres significantly increase strength, stiffness, and wear resistance of the material and the parts produced from it.
Look & Feel
The biocomposite is warm and silky to the touch. The cellulose fibres are not visible, allowing for a visually uniform surface. It can be produced in an array of colours.
Environmental Benefits
By using this grade, the carbon footprint is reduced, as there is less usage of fossil-based content. Taking into account the mass-balance method, it can be considered an almost-100% renewable resources material with an ISCC Plus certification. It is fully recyclable in a closed-loop process, and this material does not compete with the food production chain.
Applications
This material can be used in injection moulding applications instead of polypropylene, filled polypropylene, or other plastics. Suitable for use in reusable goods including products for food contact, personal care, and consumer goods.
Why we Chose this Material
We like the material being nearly completely biobased, thanks to its content mix of wood fibre waste and mass-balanced PP. The biocomposites of UPM were among the first on the market, e.g. the UPM Formi portfolio.
Why You should Consider this Material
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You are interested in a material with a substantially lower environmental footprint, compared with conventional wood fibre-filled fossil-fuel-based plastics.
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You need a material with increased strength and stiffness due to the inclusion of fibres, but you don’t want the fibres to affect the appearance of the product.
About the manufacturer
UPM has its roots in forestry, and over the years it has broadened its operations to include biocomposites manufacturing. The UPM Biocomposites division consists of UPM Formi granulates (for injection moulding, extrusion, and 3D printing) and UPM ProFi used for decking and other outdoor uses.