Lignin-based elastomers

With a growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, bio-based elastomers are becoming increasingly important in industry and research. Using renewable raw materials such as lignin, a by-product of the forestry industry, allows for replacing fossil fuels in rubber and plastic production with eco-friendly alternatives.

Produced annually in quantities of over 50 million tonnes from wood pulp and other biorefinery processes, lignin is nature's own binding agent. It is found in the cell walls of all plants, where it binds fibres together and contributes to their structural strength. Thanks to its unique chemical composition, lignin has the potential to replace fossil fuels in a variety of applications, including bioplastics, asphalt, batteries, building materials, flame retardants and UV stabilisers.

While the global market for bio-based plastics and elastomers is growing, the use of lignin in these materials is still in its infancy.

Challenges for bio-based elastomers

For almost a century, the traditional manufacture of elastomers has been dominated by petrochemical raw materials, resulting in highly optimised and well-established production processes. Every year, tens of millions of tonnes of elastomers are produced for use in everything from household products to advanced industrial applications.

Despite promising research results on bio-based alternatives, including lignin-based elastomers, there are still several obstacles to their large-scale industrial introduction. The biggest challenges include adapting production to existing processes and achieving comparable performance in large-scale applications. Continued investment in innovation, material development and process optimisation is required to unlock the full potential of lignin.

Industrialising lignin-based elastomers

Advanced digital tools for screening and optimisation

RISE applies advanced screening methods to streamline the development of bio-based elastomers. Through automated experimental platforms, robotics and machine learning, material properties can be systematically analysed and formulations optimised faster than with traditional methods. This is being applied for lignin-based elastomers through public-funded and industry-funded research projects.

Compatibility with industrial processes

Working closely with industrial partners along the value-chain, from feedstock suppliers to end users, RISE supports the accelerated industrial adoption of new bio-based elastomers. With a broad knowledge of available tools and equipment of industrial partners, RISE can support the development of bio-based elastomer chemistry and formulation at lab- and pilot-scale.

This enables a more efficient transition from laboratory development to pilot production and industrial implementation.

Lignin-based elastomers for cushioning in athletic products

Bio-based shock-absorbing materials in sports applications

The sports footwear industry is exploring alternatives to petroleum-based elastomers, especially for shock-absorbing foams. These materials, currently dominated by fossil-based polymers, have long degradation times and around 300 million pairs of trainers are discarded every year. Meanwhile, sustainable alternatives account for only 5% of the market, despite an estimated total market value of USD 196 billion by 2030.

Lignin-based elastomers – material development and properties

RISE is conducting research on lignin-based elastomers as a potential alternative to conventional polymers in shock absorbing applications. Modified lignin can provide:

Mechanical properties tailored for shock absorption
Improved thermal and chemical stability
Lower environmental impact compared to fossil-based materials
Opportunities for integration into circular material flows

The focus is on understanding the relationship between structure and properties, optimising processing methods and adapting materials for industrial use.