Timetable

In line with the GREENJOIST project targets and the LIFE+ programme guidelines, a set of activities has been planned to successfully pursue objectives and results.

Additionally partners have already performed some preliminary actions

The project will push research forward on three materials which have already shown good results in lab tests and research

Lignin-based

Wood adhesives prepared with formaldehyde, showing sufficient reactivity to produce panels with properties comparable to conventional ones, and high phenol replacement levels (~50%) reported by applying several modification steps when used for the production of wood panels such as plywood and OSB.

Tannins

Research has reported 30-50% tannin replacement of the resin solids in amino resins; however tannin use has been limited due to its high reactivity leading to quick viscosity development and thus short pot life to the resin. New solutions proposed for these issues refer to pH adjustments and use of other hardeners.

Starch

Is the major storage carbohydrate (polysaccharide) in higher plants and is available in abundance. Commercialised during the last few years, starch polymers today dominate the bio-based thermoplastic polymer market, positive research results have shown its applicability in resins for woodworking products.

GREENJOIST will test any type of lignin, tannin and starch natural raw materials for the substitution of chemical components of PF and MUF resins in order to produce composites from recycled wood. Although lignin and tannin may have been used before in binders for the production of wood-based panels, there are no references for their use in recycled wood that has many peculiarities with respect to raw wood. Moreover the use of starch in such thermosetting binding systems will be studied for the first time as starch has been mostly used in thermoplastic polymers so far.

Extensive Consultation

Extensive consultation with each other to assess materials, labour and service requirements for the correct implementation of the plant, running costs, risk factors and feasibility of the system.

Internal & external consultation

Internal and external consultation, within the partners’ networks especially in the industry.

A1-A2 / Preparatory

Design and preparation of the Pilot Plant and of the main components (A1), procurement activities (A2).

B1-B2 / Implementation actions

Construction of the pre-industrial plant (B1) and operation with a run-in phase and operational phase (B2).

B3 / Testing & Optimization

Optimization phase with a set of tests to be performed to identify potential improvements and to bring the plant to full capacity. Quality testing of the final product through stress tests and trials.

The LIFE+ GREENJOIST plant will be composed of

Dosing machine

Where the materials are mixed together.

Cochlea-shaped chamber

With variable diameter (initial > final) will allow the system to work continuously.

Extrusion channel

Attached to the final coil of the cochlea.

Mobile Cutting Bench

Able to anchor itself to the product and move with it while performing a very precise cut.

Control Board & HMI

Human/Machine Interface, a computerized, automated control system which commands most of the machine parts. Dedicated software developed by IMAL to be further customised for the GREENJOIST system.

Automatic handling system

Needed for the movement of the final product, assembly, packaging, etc.

C1-C2 / Monitoring Actions

Life-cycle and Impact assessments (C1) of the plant at full capacity as standardized by the UNI EN ISO 14040-14044, to analyse, evaluate, understand and manage the environmental and health effects of the system. IMPACT 2002+ impact assessment method shall also be used to assess the environmental significance. Socio-economic impact assessment (C2).

D1-D6 / Demonstration

Including high quality branding and dissemination material, website, events, notice boards, layman’s report and stakeholder consultations.