About BioCoLiDe
Advancing sustainable materials through innovation, research, and collaboration.
Project Overview
BioCoLiDe is a research and innovation project focused on the development of sustainable, bio-based composite materials using recycled polymers and natural fibres. By integrating advanced additive manufacturing techniques, the project aims to create high-performance materials for thermal insulation and semi-structural applications. The project combines scientific research with industrial application, bridging the gap between academia and industry to deliver practical, scalable solutions aligned with circular economy principles.
Mission:
To develop innovative, eco-friendly composite materials that reduce environmental impact while delivering high performance for industrial applications.
Vision:
To lead the transition toward sustainable manufacturing by promoting circular material use, advanced technologies, and industry collaboration.
Project Objectives
Develop bio-based composite materials
Apply advanced 3D printing technologies
Bridge research and industrial application
Improve mechanical and thermal performance
Enable recycling and reuse of materials
How BioCoLiDe Works
- Selection of sustainable raw materials
- Development of composite formulations
- 3D printing using LDM technology
- Testing and performance validation
- Prototyping for industrial use
- Recycling and life-cycle optimisation
Innovation & Technology
BioCoLiDe leverages advanced manufacturing technologies such as Liquid Deposition Modelling (LDM) to enable the creation of customised composite materials with enhanced performance. The integration of digital modelling, simulation, and life-cycle assessment ensures efficient design, reduced waste, and improved sustainability. By combining bio-based polymers with natural fibres, the project introduces a new class of materials that are both high-performing and environmentally responsible.
Project Impact
Environmental Impact
Reduces reliance on non-renewable materials and lowers carbon emissions.
Economic Impact
Creates opportunities for cost-effective and scalable manufacturing solutions.
Societal Impact
Supports sustainable development and innovation in modern industries.
Project Timeline & Milestones
BioCoLiDe is a 36-month research and innovation project structured into key phases to ensure systematic development, testing, and real-world validation.
Stage
Material Research & Selection
Identification of suitable bio-based polymers and natural fibres, focusing on sustainability and performance.
Stage
Composite Development
Formulation and optimisation of composite materials to achieve improved mechanical and thermal properties.
Stage
Manufacturing & Prototyping
Production of components using advanced 3D printing (LDM) and development of functional prototypes.
Stage
Testing & Validation
Evaluation of material performance through mechanical, thermal, and fire testing.
Stage
Optimization & Recycling
Refinement of materials and development of recycling strategies to support circular economy goals.
Stage
Demonstration & Application
Deployment of final prototypes in real-world scenarios, showcasing industrial applications and impact.
Research Approach
BioCoLiDe follows a structured and multidisciplinary approach that combines material science, advanced manufacturing, and performance evaluation to develop sustainable composite solutions.
Testing
Comprehensive testing is carried out to evaluate mechanical strength, thermal insulation performance, and fire resistance. These tests ensure that the developed bio-based composites meet industry standards and are suitable for real-world applications.
Modelling & Simulation
Advanced digital tools, including CAD design and finite element analysis (FEA), are used to simulate material behaviour and optimise performance. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is also applied to evaluate environmental impact and sustainability.
Prototyping
Functional prototypes are developed using Liquid Deposition Modelling (LDM) 3D printing technology. These prototypes are used to validate design concepts and demonstrate practical applications in areas such as thermal insulation panels.