Mazda Motor Corporation, in collaboration with Hiroshima University, is launching a project to develop a bioplastic from non-food-based cellulosic biomass for use in vehicles.
They have signed a research agreement for the “Mazda Bioplastic Project” and envision having the material ready for use by 2013.
The bioplastic being developed will not consume food resources because it will be made from biomass produced from inedible vegetation such as plant waste and wood shavings. Furthermore, because cellulosic biomass is plant-derived and carbon neutral, the bioplastic will reduce reliance on limited fossil fuel resources and alleviate carbon dioxide emissions.
The project will focus on designing a production process for an extremely versatile polypropylene, appropriate for extensive use in vehicles, by first converting cellulosic biomass to ethanol, and then investigating various mixtures of ethylene and propylene. The polypropylene must have sufficient heat resistance, strength and durability to be used in vehicle bumpers and instrument panels. The project will also seek to optimise the manufacturing process for the bioplastic so that it is eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Mazda’s previous research on biomass technology resulted in the world’s first high heat-resistant, high-strength bioplastic and the world’s first 100 per cent plant-derived fabric for use in car seats. These two biomaterials are used in the interior of the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. Powered by Mazda’s hydrogen rotary engine mated to a hybrid system, the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid is scheduled to start commercial leasing soon.