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Biocomposite Foams with Multimodal Cellular Structures Based on Cork Granulates and Microwave Processed Egg White
Giorgio Luciano1, Adriano Vignali1, Maurizio Vignolo1
1Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies (SCITEC) "Giulio Natta", National Research Council (CNR), Via Alfonso Corti 12, 20133 Milan, Italy.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 28, 2023
Summary
Recycled cork waste and egg white proteins create sustainable, fireproof insulating panels using microwave foaming. This eco-friendly process enhances material properties for better thermal and acoustic performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Engineering
- Biocomposites
Background:
- Growing demand for sustainable building materials.
- Need for effective recycling of industrial waste, like cork processing byproducts.
- Limitations of conventional insulating materials regarding environmental impact and fire resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop sustainable, lightweight, fireproof thermal and acoustic insulating panels from recycled cork waste.
- To utilize egg white proteins (EWP) as a bio-based matrix for creating open-cell structures.
- To investigate the influence of composition and additives on panel properties.
Main Methods:
- Microwave foaming process for creating open-cell structures using EWP.
- Preparation of biocomposite panels with varying ratios of EWP and cork.
- Incorporation of additives such as eggshells and inorganic intumescent fillers.
- Characterization of cellular structure, flame resistance, and mechanical properties.
Main Results:
- Successful production of lightweight biocomposite panels from recycled cork and EWP.
- Demonstrated correlation between material composition, cellular morphology, and performance characteristics.
- Achieved fireproof properties suitable for thermal and acoustic insulation applications.
Conclusions:
- Recycling cork waste with EWP offers a sustainable route to high-performance insulating panels.
- Microwave foaming is an energy-efficient method for creating desired cellular structures.
- The developed biocomposite panels show potential for reducing environmental impact in the construction industry.
