Our Story
The main focus of our laboratory’s research is valorising bio-based environmental resources in everyday and high-tech applications. The aim is to find sustainable alternatives to fossil-based polymeric materials by using bio-based alternatives and recyclables.
Our team is looking for novel ways to sustainably valorise cellulose by applying new, recyclable solvent systems, bio-based chemical modification reagents, and energy-saving technologies. New, bio-based or well-recycled solvent systems are used. Plant oils are being used for the esterification of cellulose, and reactive extrusion technology is being developed as a synthesis medium.
Our laboratory is the only one in Estonia that can pilot electrospinning. This method develops triboelectric materials and filter materials based on cellulose derivatives.
We also have a unique pilot production capability in Estonia in essential areas of polymer technology such as hot mixing, extrusion, and injection moulding. Thermoplastic or thermosetting polymer composites with inorganic or bio-based additives are being developed to efficiently use secondary raw materials in the circular economy. It will be clarified whether and how different types of mineral waste, such as ash from electricity or oil production, can replace mined mineral resources such as limestone. Solutions are also being sought for larger-scale recycling of textile waste and lignocellulosic fibers.
Biopolümeeride tehnoloogia labor
Materjali- ja keskkonnatehnoloogia instituut
Tallinna Tehnikaülikool
