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April 8, 2025
Lignin-Rich Masterbatch Revolutionizes Ecofriendly Injection Molding in Automotive Industry
Sweden-based Lignin Industries has introduced a game-changing bio-based masterbatch poised to reshape the global automotive industry. Developed under the name Renol, this patented masterbatch combines lignin—a renewable bio-oil byproduct—with polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) carrier resins, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastics.
Especially impactful in injection molding, Renol enables the production of lightweight, bio-rich automotive components such as dashboards, door panels, and roof boxes. The masterbatch, which contains up to 95% lignin, can be compounded with recycled plastics to achieve carbon-negative outcomes when used at concentrations above 40%.
In cutting-edge trials, Renol demonstrated exceptional compatibility with Ku-Fizz—a microcellular injection molding technology originally developed by Volkswagen. The results: 10% weight reduction, 30% shorter cycle times, and a remarkable 70% drop in clamping force requirements. These gains translate to reduced machine size and energy use, further amplifying environmental benefits.
Unlike traditional glass fibers, Renol retains its properties through multiple reprocessing cycles and delivers isotropic performance for easier manufacturing of flat surfaces—crucial for high-volume automotive applications.
Tailored for flexibility, Renol masterbatches support thermoforming and film extrusion and can be customized with additives like UV stabilizers and impact modifiers. Backed by collaboration with Vinnova, Scania, AutoForm, and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Lignin Industries is setting a new benchmark for sustainable plastics manufacturing—one injection-molded part at a time. Learn more about this topic here.
Especially impactful in injection molding, Renol enables the production of lightweight, bio-rich automotive components such as dashboards, door panels, and roof boxes. The masterbatch, which contains up to 95% lignin, can be compounded with recycled plastics to achieve carbon-negative outcomes when used at concentrations above 40%.
In cutting-edge trials, Renol demonstrated exceptional compatibility with Ku-Fizz—a microcellular injection molding technology originally developed by Volkswagen. The results: 10% weight reduction, 30% shorter cycle times, and a remarkable 70% drop in clamping force requirements. These gains translate to reduced machine size and energy use, further amplifying environmental benefits.
Unlike traditional glass fibers, Renol retains its properties through multiple reprocessing cycles and delivers isotropic performance for easier manufacturing of flat surfaces—crucial for high-volume automotive applications.
Tailored for flexibility, Renol masterbatches support thermoforming and film extrusion and can be customized with additives like UV stabilizers and impact modifiers. Backed by collaboration with Vinnova, Scania, AutoForm, and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Lignin Industries is setting a new benchmark for sustainable plastics manufacturing—one injection-molded part at a time. Learn more about this topic here.
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