BioFoamBark: Bark Valorization into Insulating Foams and Bioenergy

The project focuses at developing the chemistry and technology for preparing fully bio-based tannin foams in order to substitute petroleum based foams. The tannins are extracted from the bark of prevalent softwood species. Further components for the foam formulation like glycerol and furfural are by-products from biodiesel and pulp and paper industry. One aim is to develop foams with excellent properties for applictation as insulating building materials and for conversion into synthesis gas at the end of the product life. In this project it is also planned to assess the environmental performance, techno-economic feasibility and market potentials of those biomaterials.