Mondi debuts cellulose fibre reinforced polymer ‘Fibromer’

September 12, 2013 - Germany

Mondi has launched FIBROMER , a revolutionary polymer reinforced with cellulose fibre that has numerous injection moulding applications for industries such as automotive, logistics/transport, electronics and furniture.

Mondi developed FIBROMER in a new compounding process that homogenously mixes kraft pulp fibre – a renewable resource produced by Mondi – with a polymer granule. The result is a new composite that offers clear advantages for injection moulders and original equipment manufacturers over other composites used in manufacturing, such as those using short glass fibres, other natural fibres or talcum-filled material.

Clemens Stockreiter, COO Mondi Kraft Paper, commented: “Product innovation is a high priority at Mondi. We recognised that requirements for composite materials were changing: converters and manufacturers want polymers that are not only strong and stable, but also customisable to a certain degree and preferably from renewable or sustainable sources. We are excited to launch FIBROMER which meets all those needs and has great potential for a number of industries.”

Advantages of FIBROMER:

FIBROMER enables faster injection moulding cycles and higher productivity. It has higher material strength, increased stiffness and high-impact strength at low temperatures. It provides higher heat distortion than talcum-filled compounds and enhanced dimensional stability.

At the same time, FIBROMER is a lightweight solution that has low odour, low density and very low abrasion. Cellulose fibre is available year-round at a consistent quality.

What’s more, FIBROMER  meets important criteria for sustainability and green manufacturing. It is produced from renewable resources and is highly recyclable – in line with Mondi’s commitment to product responsibility and sustainable business practices.

Mondi’s global distribution network will offer FIBROMER in a variety of product options that are customised for different industry applications. Customers may choose from among defined variations in fibre content, matrix material, tensile modulus, tensile strength, impact strength, heat distortion temperature, and melt flow index. This means FIBROMER is suitable to a range of injection-moulding applications – from crates and bins to automotive interior and structural parts.

FIBROMER was developed by Mondi’s own research & development department, which builds on more than 130 years of in-house expertise and fibre know-how. The company is committed to responsible sourcing of raw materials and benefits from intensive fibre manufacturing scale and a global supply and distribution network.