bioORMOCER^® coatings

bioORMOCER^® coatings have been developed from the idea of making ORMOCER^® coatings more sustainable and more biodegradable.

We achieve this by replacing parts of the fossil-based materials with modified biopolymers. These biopolymers are chemically linked to the ORMOCER^® matrix during synthesis so they can react like predetermined breaking points. As a result, the bioORMOCER^® layers degrade faster than materials based solely on fossil raw materials. In external tests in an accredited laboratory, industrial compostability was proven, but home compostability is also possible, as internal tests have shown. The rate of degradation is relative to the proportion of biocomponents, but other aspects, such as the type of biopolymers, are also decisive.

Different biocomponents can be used for the production of bioORMOCER^® materials, for example chitosan, various celluloses or saccharides - the important thing is that the biocomponents carry a reactive group or can be equipped with one. This chemically binds the biopolymers to the ORMOCER^® matrix, which prevents migration. In addition, the respective components can change or reinforce different properties of the bioORMOCER^® layers. This in turn must be coordinated with the substrate and the requirements for the coating.

bioORMOCER^® coatings: Sustainable innovation for versatile applications

Other functional layers can also be made more sustainable with the help of bioORMOCER^® layers. This is particularly useful if the underlying substrate is also biodegradable. For example, the EU project INN-PRESSME is developing scratch-resistant bioORMOCER^® coatings for automotive applications as well as flexible, antimicrobial bioORMOCER^® coatings for shoe soles or other sporting goods.