The objective of the Bio-Mer project is to develop a thermoset polymer with close to 100% bio-based raw material content.

The potential of the available bio-resources in value-added sectors still needs to be maximised. The Bio-Mer objectives will contribute towards knowledge intensive bioeconomy, which is a cornerstone for Latvia`s and European Union`s sustainable growth and development.Locally available resources such as rapeseed oil and pulp production side stream tall oil fatty acids will be used to synthesize a two-component system that will cure at room temperature after mixing, forming mechanically rigid, non-biodegradable and highly cross-linked polymer. First, two types of bio-based monomers will be synthesised and used, Michael donor – monomer containing acetoacetate groups and Michael acceptor – monomer containing acrylic acid moieties. Afterwards, the polymerization through the nucleophilic carbon-Michael addition will be used to develop bio-based thermoset polymer matrix, the physical and thermal properties will be studied. The proposed technology has a potential in the production of two-component polymer foams, resins and coatings. The proposed technology will be a direct alternative to the two-component polyurethane material production methods. All these activities will be performed in conjunction with sustainability studies. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will enable the metrics of eco-efficiency to guide/identify a product solution with little environmental burden.

Place of project implementation – Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC), Dzerbenes str. 27, Riga, LV-1006 (koks@edi.lv).
Planned total duration of the project – 36 months.