R&D - Project
Biocoma Ongoing
Systemic bio-based coating and paint solutions for building materials in exterior applications
The BIOCOMA project aims to develop bio-based, non-toxic paints for external applications in the construction sector, as an alternative to current fossil-based formulations.
The coatings industry is facing increasing pressure to adopt more environmentally friendly solutions. Traditional coatings, which use fossil-based resins (epoxy, polyurethane, alkyd, acrylic), are responsible for VOC emissions, hazardous waste and microplastic pollution, whilst contributing to the contamination of ecosystems. Although bio-based coatings do exist, their lack of durability, water resistance and UV stability limits their use in outdoor applications, which in turn restricts their adoption by SMEs. Furthermore, the proportion of bio-based content is often less than 40 per cent, due to the technical challenges involved in achieving certain chemical properties from natural sources.
The BIOCOMA project aims to develop more effective and sustainable bio-based paints. These new formulations are being developed using various additives:
- By adjusting the cross-linking of proteins, these coatings will offer improved mechanical strength and greater resistance to abrasion and heat.
- The addition of UV blockers derived from lignin will enhance stability against UV radiation and hydrolysis. Furthermore, the use of carbohydrate-based cross-linking agents will optimise adhesion and chemical resistance.
- The incorporation of bio-based hydrophobic precursors will improve the uniformity and overall performance of the coating, thereby making it more competitive against petroleum-based alternatives.
