UPM Formi EcoAce WB50 / Bio-composite
What is this bio-composite polymer?
UPM Formi EcoAce WB is a renewable biocomposite product portfolio made from 40-60% wood fibres and bionaphtha (BioVerno). This bionaphtha is based on tall oil from wood, certified by ISCC, which certifies sustainability of the material. This specific grade is a biocomposite containing 50% certified wood fibres and 50% mass-balanced polypropylene. The wood fibres are sourced from PEFC-certified, sustainably managed forest. These fibres are side streams and residues of wood and pulp processing processes, so no additional harvesting is needed. Additional grades contain 40% (WB40) and 60% (WB60) fibres.
Material properties
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Tensile strength (MPa): 46
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Tensile modulus (MPa): 3750
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Elongation at break (%): 2
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Density (kg/dm3): 1.05
Link to the technical data-sheet
Technical benefits
Despite its high content of natural fibres, it has material properties similar to fossil-based plastics, and similar moulding techniques can be used. The soft wood fibres significantly increase stiffness and strength of the material and the parts produced from it.
Look and feel
The biocomposite is warm and silky to the touch. The look and feel of the material have some similarities to wood, as the fibres are visible. It can be produced in an array of colours.
Environmental benefits
Using this grade, the carbon footprint is reduced because it uses less fossil-based content. The mass-balance method means it can be considered an almost-100% renewable resources material with an ISCC Plus certification. It is fully recyclable in a closed-loop process.
Applications
This material can be used in injection moulding applications instead of polypropylene, filled polypropylene, or several other plastics. It’s suitable for use in reusable goods, including products for food contact, personal care, and consumer goods.
Why we chose this bio-composite material
We like the material being nearly completely biobased, thanks to its content of wood fibres waste and mass balanced PP. The biocomposites of UPM were among the first on the market, namely 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 to conventional wood fibre-filled fossil-fuel-based plastics.
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You need a material with increased strength and stiffness, and you value the appearance of the wood fibres in the surface of the moulded 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.