Description du projet
Deforestation problems in tropical countries combined with governing strict regulations on the formaldehyde content of wood panels has resulted to companies searching for alternative materials. NaturLoop aims to boost the availability of sustainable furniture and construction materials with the development of Cocoboard. The biocomposite is made from coconut husk and bio-based adhesive and produced using an innovative production concept that transforms agricultural waste into high performance panels. Cocoboard has superior mechanical properties to commercially available panels due to its 100% bio-based composition, high resistance to wood-decaying insects (termites) and zero formaldehyde emissions (comparable to solid wood), thus, satisfying the highest international requirements in the field. In addition, the involvement and integration of rural farming communities in the value chain, increases the livelihood of coconut farmers. NaturLoop plans to launch a production facility in the Philippines to validate its production technology to service local and export markets.
Etat/résultats intermédiaires
The purpose of this project is to finalize the key activities required to launch the first Cocoboard factory in the Philippines, including advancing supply chain development, initiating customer prototyping, and finalizing production technology. After a series of initial prototyping tests, several international brand owners from the furniture sector expressed interest to continue working with Cocoboard. Next, the consolidation method of coconut husks has been finalized. NaturLoop and their supply partner are in the process of launching a pilot consolidation center in the Philippines to put the strategy into action and begin operations. Finally, the Cocoboard production line concept has been finalized and quotations for a state-of-the-art solution have been submitted from suppliers.
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Personnes participant au projet
Dernière mise à jour de cette présentation du projet 31.01.2023