AIMPLAS is working along these lines with the RECONPACK and BIO-IGNITION projects, which are funded by the Valencian Institute of Business Competitiveness (IVACE).
The RECONPACK project focuses on developing coatings that add value to the construction, renewable energy, and packaging sectors by reducing material use and, consequently, dependence on natural resources. This implies a strategic shift in industrial policy, business models, and associated processes.
The project's main objective is to develop functional coatings that provide innovative solutions through additives and functional matrices. Specifically, work is underway with special additives to develop a paint that cools buildings and improves thermal insulation. Additionally, conductive and superhydrophobic additives are being used to develop a hybrid anti-icing paint for wind turbine blades. And finally, with polymeric matrices and hydrophobic additives for the development of a hydrophobic coating for paper and cardboard that does not affect the recyclability of the packaging.
For its part, through the BIO-IGNITION project, AIMPLAS is developing innovative flame retardant additives derived from renewable raw materials. These additives aim to ensure minimal environmental impact during production and low toxicity in combustion products. The
project also focuses on optimizing analytical methodologies for fire characterization, thereby reducing analysis time and material consumption.
In this vein, the development of flame retardants from renewable sources promotes improved quality of life for citizens in terms of safety from several perspectives: fire prevention and mitigation of fire effects, the use of natural additives that do not chemically interact with users, and reduced waste generation after the product's useful life.
The research results from both projects will be validated by the collaborating companies and subsequently disseminated and transferred to companies in various sectors. These two projects are supported by the companies Omar Coatings, Maper, Al-farben, Calsens, Prime Biopolymers, Vallesplastic, Gaviplas, Pohuer, Reboca, and Durplastics.
Finally, these projects are funded by IVACE through the EU's ERDF funds, within the ERDF Operational Programme of the Valencian Community 2021-2027. This funding is aimed at technology centers in the Valencian Community for the development of non-economic R&D projects carried out in cooperation with companies for the 2022 fiscal year.
