Over the next few weeks, I\u2019ll be sharing insights in the Datwyler TechTrend Pulse into how we\u2019re dealing with that challenge, how our solutions can benefit both you and your stakeholders \u2013 and how you can partner with us to co-create the best custom response that\u2019s specific to your needs.<\/p>\n
Today I wanted to share an introduction into one of our focus innovation areas for sustainable material development — microfibrillated cellulose, or MFCs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
MFC \u2013 A Promising, Sustainable Substitute for Petroleum-based Materials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The substitution of petrochemical-based materials with renewable ones is an important step towards increasing sustainability. Cellulosic materials are promising candidates for this scope. These materials are renewable, abundant, and show a low environmental impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And that\u2019s where microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MFC \u2013 How You, and Your Stakeholders, Can Benefit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s a lot to talk about when it comes to MFC and how it might benefit you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, its excellent properties. With its high stiffness, fibrils morphology, low density and mechanical properties, we think this is a promising alternative to traditional, petroleum-based solutions. And for you, that means a solution that\u2019s up to the task of performing in high-pressure applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Second, it\u2019s an excellent hedge against traditional material solution shortages, such as Aramid fibers. That means a better controlled material supply to ensure you and your customers avoid any down-time or delays. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Third, its sustainability. Unlike traditional solutions such as Aramid, which are petroleum-based, cellulose comes from a renewable source. That makes it a responsible solution to help reduce your own environmental footprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MFC \u2013 Adding a Uniquely Swiss Datwyler Touch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With rising awareness of PFAS, and the need for more environmentally friendly materials (we\u2019ll share more insights about PFAS in a forthcoming TechTrend Pulse article), there\u2019s a lot of discussion right now about sustainable material solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Datwyler, we closely listened to our customers\u2019 needs and understood that a key concern about sustainable materials was whether they could show strong resistance in tough, system-critical environments. To address that, we decided to collaborate with Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology. (The Empa<\/a> is a Research Institute of the ETH Domain<\/a> \u2013 one of the world\u2019s top technical and research institutes. You can find out more about our collaboration at Empa – Communication – rubbermfc<\/a> )<\/p>\n\n\n\n The outcome?<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a result of our work, we succeeded in modifying the surface of MFC, making it more hydrophobic. This more hydrophobic material, called mMFC, or modified MFC, smoothly disperses into a more hydrophobic polymer matrix \u2013 just like EPDM. And with its good compatibility between filler and matrix, our mMFC shows a strong reinforcing effect, even superior to those reached with conventional petroleum-based fibres.<\/p>\n\n\n We see mMFC as particularly suitable for sectors such as HVAC and Sanitary \u2013 for example, in making diaphragms for valves. But the potential applications are much broader, including other various industrial and mobility applications and in general any dynamic or high-pressure applications where an elastomeric seal normally reinforced with aramid fibers, textile or similar reinforcing technology is used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/em><\/strong>We\u2019re pretty excited about mMFC \u2013 and think you might benefit from it too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019ll as mentioned share more information in TechTrendPulse over the weeks to come, but in the meantime, why not reach out to us at Contact Us – Datwyler Sealing<\/a><\/strong> to discuss mMFC further?<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we look to upscale production, my team and me would be happy to speak and see where we might have an opportunity to co-create a great solution together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best regards,<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bram Jongen<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom MFC to mMFC \u2013 a Superior Solution from Datwyler <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/datwylersealing.com\/eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/10\/mmmfcCapture-1-1-1.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nmMFC \u2013 Potential Applications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
mMFC \u2013 Come and Co-Create with Us<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
VP Materials and Surface Technologies
Datwyler Sealing<\/small><\/p>\n\n\n\nContact us to explore how Datwyler\u2019s innovations can revolutionize your industry.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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