At the forefront of sustainable innovation, BioMat@Copenhagen, based at Aalborg University, is leading the efforts of Work Package 6 (WP6) within the REPurpose project: REP Product Development and Prototyping. Their mission is to bridge the gap between material research, architectural design, and digital fabrication to develop practical and sustainable applications for the built environment and beyond.

Pioneering Sustainable Product Development

BioMat@Copenhagen is dedicated to designing and fabricating REP products by integrating material properties as a core design tool. Their work focuses on:

• Designing and prototyping REP products.
• Bridging material development with product design and production processes.
• Post-processing semi-finished REP materials, including sheets and pellets.

Through their research, they explore innovative applications of both rigid and flexible REP polymers across targeted sectors, such as building and construction, automotive, and consumer goods.
 

Maker Space for Sustainability: A Hub for Innovation

A key asset in WP6 is the Maker Space for Sustainability at Aalborg University Copenhagen, a cutting-edge production laboratory supporting a broad range of digital fabrication methods. Equipped with CNC cutting, thermal forming, and advanced 3D printing technologies, this versatile space enables high-quality prototyping of REP polymers.

With a professional plastic production facility, the Maker Space fosters innovation in material research and sustainable product development. Exciting product samples have already been tested, showcasing the transformative potential of REP materials in pushing sustainability forward.

Revolutionizing Automotive and Consumer Goods

BioMat@Copenhagen’s Maker Space continues to push the boundaries of sustainable product development. Recently, they have developed several advanced prototypes demonstrating the versatility of REPurpose polymers in the automotive and consumer goods sectors:

Car Interior Sandwich Panel: A thermal-formed prototype combining a flexible polymer sheet with a rigid Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) panel. This durable product features a damping outer surface, enhancing both strength and functionality.

Car Airbag Cover: Utilizing thermal forming for mass production, this prototype allows customization through sheet thickness adjustments, ensuring optimal durability and strength.

Car Pedal Cover: 3D printed using a rigid REP polymer, this pedal cover showcases intricate patterns and customized designs, leveraging advanced 3D modeling and fabrication techniques.

Car Transmission Handle: Designed with a flexible REP polymer, this ergonomic handle enhances functionality and user experience. Customizable grip designs highlight the adaptability of REP polymers in creating sustainable, user-centric solutions.

Shaping a Sustainable Future

These pioneering developments highlight the vast potential of REPurpose materials in transforming industries through innovative, eco-conscious designs. As BioMat@Copenhagen continues to refine and expand their research, they remain at the cutting edge of sustainable product innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates from our labs as we continue to explore new frontiers in material science and sustainability!