Bioconcept-Car
The aim of the project is to develop and implement solutions for making components for the automotive sector including auto racing, by using bioplastic and biocomposite materials. Bioplastics and biocomposites in this context are defined as fully or partially bio-based but non-reinforced materials as well as composites with bio-based matrix or bio-based reinforcements.
The project is managed by the IfBB – Institute for Bioplastics and Biocomposites in collaboration with several partners including the „Four Motors“ racing team. Their goal is to manufacture components made from renewable raw materials for the bio-fuelled socalled bioconcept car, specifically for the car body and the interior. The “bioconcept car” is a racing car driven, among others, by Smudo, the singer and rapper of the Fantastischen Vier pop and hip hop band.
The IfBB is in charge of all aspects related to the materials and process engineering of the bio-materials. A pre-selection according to relevant engineering criteria is made to identify suitable bio-based thermoplastic and duroplastic materials as well as natural fibres. The processing and usage properties of these pre-selected materials are analyzed and optimized to match the specific requirements of the “bioconcept car” components. Depending on these requirements, different bio-materials may be used such as natural-fibre reinforced composites, bio-based resins, or bio-based thermoplastics. Modified to suit specifically tailored applications, these bioplastic and biocomposite materials are used to produce interior as well as exterior components, e.g., in the engine compartment, which will be characterized and analyzed not only before but also following the trial runs on the race track.
Project summary
- Project title: Bioconcept-Car
- Funding: Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR)
- Sponsorship: Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL)
- Project partners: Four Motors, Zimspeed, German Aerospace Center (DLR), WPR COMMUNICATION
- Project period: May 2011 to November 2013
