TOMPosite: Composite Materials from Renewable Resources in Latvian Science

The Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, in collaboration with Riga Technical University, is implementing the research project TOMPosite (“Bio-Based Composite Development from the Fatty Acid-Based Polymer Resin Reinforced with Natural Origin Fibres”, project No. lzp-2024/1-0071). The project is dedicated to the development of high-performance composite materials from renewable resources.

By utilizing tall oil fatty acids (TOFA) – a side stream from pulp production – and Meldrum’s acid derived from renewable sources, we are developing thermoset polymer resins with a high proportion of renewable content that could reduce reliance on fossil-based polymers. TOFA is obtained as a by-product of cellulose production, while Meldrum’s acid is synthesized from bio-based feedstocks (malonic acid from sugar fermentation; acetic anhydride and acetone from biomass fermentation).

Why is this project important?
TOMPosite promotes green chemistry and supports the development of sustainable materials, facilitating the transition toward a bio-based economy:

  • Up to 90% renewable content in composite formulations
  • Reduced dependence on petroleum-derived raw materials
  • Broad application potential across multiple industrial sectors

How do bio-based polymers work?
In the TOMPosite project, thermoset two-component polymer resins are synthesized via the Michael nucleophilic addition reaction – a process that enables crosslinking at mild conditions and supports the design of tailored material properties.

The Michael addition reaction – like a well-coordinated collaboration!
Imagine two people wanting to form a great team. One is the Michael donor – they have “extra energy” but can’t use it on their own. The other is the Michael acceptor – eager to receive this energy but unable to generate it themselves.
When they meet and collaborate, a new, stable connection forms – just like a successful team in business or family life!
In this process, our bio-based polymer resins are formed in a similar way – we create and carefully match suitable “partners” to form durable materials.

How is TOMPosite polymer resin synthesized?

  • Component synthesis – Preparation of Michael donors and acceptors from TOFA and Meldrum’s acid
  • Resin formation – Crosslinking through Michael addition reaction
  • Composite fabrication – Reinforcement with natural origin fibres (short fibres and fabric)

The resulting thermoset resins allow tunable crosslinking density, enabling optimization of mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties based on end-use requirements.

The Future of Bio-Based Composites: Where Can They Be Used?
Materials from the TOMPosite project could potentially revolutionize several industries:

  • Automotive industry – lighter, stronger vehicle panels that reduce fuel consumption
  • Construction – more sustainable materials for structural applications
  • Sports equipment – next-generation gear with enhanced flexibility and mechanical strength

These materials have wide-ranging applications, and new ideas for their use can emerge in any sector. Where else do you think bio-based composites could be applied? Share your ideas!
The Future of Bio-Based Composites: Where Can They Be Used?
Materials developed within the TOMPosite project have potential applications in various sectors:

  • Automotive – lightweight, strong components to reduce fuel consumption
  • Construction – sustainable alternatives for load-bearing or structural elements
  • Sports equipment – high-performance gear with improved strength and flexibility

The versatility of bio-based composites opens up opportunities in many fields.

The TOMPosite project combines scientific precision with the boldness of sustainable thinking, driven by our outstanding scientists – project leader Ph.D. Aiga Ivdre, kā arī Ph.D. Miķelis Kirpļuks un Ph.D. Ralfs Pomilovskis. 

Stay tuned for updates and learn more about innovative research in bio-based composites!

Project description HERE.

 

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