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BioNIPU: polyurethane adhesives from indigenous biomass
31.03.2025 Researchers at the Institute for Building Materials and Biobased Products have found a way to produce low-temperature curing polyurethane adhesives from indigenous biomass that are practically emission-free and isocyanate-free, i.e. non-toxic.
Key points at a glance
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The researchers succeeded in producing bio-based polyurethane adhesives (BioNIPU) from extracts of native bark.
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The formulations are isocyanate-free and practically emission-free.
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The potential of the new adhesives in construction applications is currently under review.
Innovative adhesive synthesis from native conifers
The raw materials used for the synthesis of the adhesives are tannins and sugar-based components, which can be extracted from the bark of native conifers, for example. The work begins with is the extraction of spruce bark. This process is carried out on BFH’s pilot extraction plant, whereby the source materials for the BioNIPU adhesive are extracted from the bark. In combination with carbonates and a simple synthesis process, the substances are converted into polyurethane structures, which form the main component of the adhesive.
Institute for Building Materials and Biobased Products
Environmentally friendly materials made from reusable raw materials are the future of the wood and construction industry. Use the potential of bio-based products and sustainable road construction materials. We accompany you from the initial idea to the final product.
“We have succeeded in using and integrating the two main components of native bark extracts, tannins and sugar components, into an adhesive system. It is a first!”
The suitability of this new adhesive family for applications in the wood-based materials industry is currently being assessed. So far, P2 chipboards have been successfully produced on a laboratory scale. A patent application was filed for the adhesive system’s production process at the end of last year. The next step will be an EU project starting in May 2025, in which the adhesive system for the production of building boards is to be further developed.