Novel biobased formulations for CIRCULAR Construction materials

CIRCULAR-C is a demand-driven research and innovation action aiming to transform the biobased chemical sector for construction applications by developing a new generation of circular, sustainable, and biobased adhesives, coatings, and functionalised fibres at TRL 5. These new formulations for wood panel construction (used in flooring, furniture, and insulation) featuring reversible chemical bonds and Digital Product Passports enhance recycling and reduce environmental impact. Thus, CIRCULAR-C will validate and optimise a process using mixed sustainable biomass residues as feedstock to produce high-strength functionalised cellulosic materials and circular adhesives and coatings with high bio-based content, fire retardancy and reversibility. Industrial partners will test these formulations in construction panels and validate them against industry requirements. In addition, the novel disassembly, recycling, and remanufacturing of the panels will be validated, and comprehensive digital product passports (DPPs) prepared to track the lifecycle and sustainability metrics of our products. The safety, circularity, and sustainability of processes and products will be assessed during all development stages, and we will ensure that the project outcomes are widely disseminated, and their economic feasibility validated. Through these efforts, CIRCULAR-C will increase the capacity of biobased sectors by maximizing residue valorisation and material recycling, as well as minimizing environmental and climate impact. Our long-term impact by 2038, calls to operate a fully scaled CIRCULAR-C plant with an annual output of 10.8 kt of adhesives, 12 kt of coatings, 50 kt of functionalised fibres and 15.3 kt non-PU foams, which could be potentially used in 75,000 residencies. This venture is expected to generate €114 million in revenue and sustain 381 full-time jobs while cutting the use of hazardous chemicals by over 75% and reducing 80 -100% GHG emissions to achieve climate neutrality.