Applications - Suzano Ecolig

Biopossibilities for the present and for the future

Ecolig will meet part of the market demand for replacing fossil-based chemicals with plant-based, renewable bioproducts. This is an urgent need of the planet, since the future of Earth demands transformation:

new sources of energy and sustainable solutions that nurture the bioeconomy.

That’s why, thanks to its multiple chemical functionalities and properties, Suzano Ecolig has already estabilished several applications and has a promising pipeline under development for diverse segments, thus becoming a factor to renovate society and the markets for a better tomorrow.

Applications and differentiating features

Elastomers

From the group of sterically hindered phenols, Ecolig has antioxidant properties and can be used as a renewable alternative to fossil-based materials in formulating rubber compounds.

In typical rubber formulations, Ecolig has shown:

Excellent protection against oxidation and thermal degradation, as well as excellent retention of mechanical properties after accelerated aging;
Minimum influence on rheological behavior, curing properties and original physical properties;
Low volatility, without staining on contact or discoloration of vulcanized products.

Due to its characteristic color, Ecolig has been found to be particularly effective in formulating tire retreading components, conveyor belts, shoe soles and other rubber items such as hoses, profiles, automotive parts and sealants, among others.

Phenolic Resins

Ecolig can be used in the production of phenolic resins, in some cases, replacing up to 50% of fossil-based products. Its use adds sustainability, performance and storage stability. It also is a non-toxic product.

In recent years, Suzano has been developing lignin-based phenol-formaldehyde (LPF) resins with tremendous market potential. Its applications include resins for bonding plywood, oriented strand boards (OSB), decorative laminates, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), medium density particleboard (MDP) and others.

Bioasphalt

The use of Ecolig as partial replacement for bitumen in asphalt and other paving products as a binder or modifier results into an attractive and environmentally conscious solution in a market eager for sustainable alternatives to fossil-based materials. Lignin-containing bio-binders have shown good performance, making them a very promising solution with a smaller environmental footprint. Moreover, Ecolig antioxidant properties can improve long-term behavior and promote the adhesion of the bio-binder with the aggregates, leading to cost savings in the long run.