Sweden-based RenCom AB has chosen a Coperion ‘state of the art’ twin screw extrusion system to enable the production of Renol, an innovative thermoplastic biomaterial that can be used to replace fossil-based plastics.

Following comprehensive studies in Coperion’s extrusion test laboratory in Germany, RenCom and Coperion were able to further develop the processing of this lignin-based material and transform it into durable, reusable biomaterial by using the ZSK twin screw extruder technology. RenCom will be able to produce up to 1,000 tonnes of Renol pellets per year starting late 2020.

RenCom has a patented material and process that energy-efficiently transforms lignin into renewable, degradable biomaterial that can replace fossil plastics, marketed under the name Renol.

Passing different process steps, including extrusion and compounding, Renol becomes a durable, reusable biomaterial that can be used for all kinds of plastic products, such as bags and glues. It can be used directly in existing production infrastructure without any modifications to machines or methods.

Coperion has in cooperation with RenCom designed a complete extrusion system comprising a ZSK co-rotating twin screw extruder, gravimetric feeders, a strand pelletising system, a lignin bag dump station and a big bag station to RenCom.

The ZSK Mv Plus series unites an optimally balanced large free screw volume with high screw speeds and a high specific torque. Thanks to the deeply cut screw flights thermal stress on the raw material is very low and product processing is very gently.

By using the side feeder ZS-B, fillers and additives can be added to the process section according to the requirements of the end product — the complete system will be delivered in October.

Peter von Hoffmann, Coperion general manager for business unit engineering plastics and special applications, said: “We are proud to supply extrusion process know-how and technology for such a future generation of biomaterial like Renol. We truly believe in RenCom’s green objectives and see great potential in their bioproduct Renol, which actively contributes to reducing CO² emissions in comparison to fossil-based plastics.”

Christopher Carrick, RenCom’s CEO, said: “We at RenCom are very happy to announce the partnership with Coperion. It is a fundamental key stone in our progress to supply our innovative material to a broad audience and to enter the market as early as beginning of 2021.

“Working with the best of its kind is particularly important as Coperion is the world leader in the field of extrusion and process engineering perfection.”