Bausano strengthens its extrusion lines for natural fibre waste
Sustainability is a key concept that affecting all economic sectors, particlualrly in the construction sector. Bausano has responded to the new needs of the sector by enhancing its extrusion lines for plastic waste (PVC, PE or PP) and natural fibres, including wood dust and substances of plant origin, including rice husks, coffee grounds, banana peels, seaweed, almond shells, avocado kernels, cork and other plant residues.
The market for composites obtained from natural fibres is experiencing significant growth due to the properties that make these materials unique in terms of versatility, reliability and environmental impact. By virtue of their exceptional performance characteristics, in terms of high resistance to corrosion, atmospheric agents, UV rays and impermeability, they are suitable for cladding, furniture and indoor and outdoor flooring. Furthermore, their increased lifespan enables plant fibre-plastic composite materials to be used in the automotive sector, for the internal lining of door panels, dashboards, trunks and for the production of lightweight components.
Bausano’s extrusion technology has been modified to incorporate up to 100phr of wood or natural fibre. The specific counter-rotating twin-screw configuration makes it possible to achieve an accurate mixing between melted polymer and fibre, passing it through the mould without the need for a melting pump. Specifically, profiles can be directly extruded from the raw material (direct extrusion) or the material can be processed starting from the granule (indirect extrusion). In direct extrusion, Bausano machines ensure the processing of fibres with a humidity level of up to 12 per cent at a speed three times higher with respect to other solutions on the market. The granulation lines, specifically designed to ensure maximum performance at any production speed, also enable the use of recycling materials and can be configured with premixing or gravimetric dosing systems upstream. The granules obtained can thus be transformed into a finished product either through moulding or extrusion, with twin or single screw. The lines are distinguished by the high degree of customisation, the wide range of modular accessories and a special coating, on request, which extends the useful lifespan of screws and cylinders up to 25,000 hours, before replacement is required.
Clemente Bausano, Vice President of the company, said: “The plant fibre-plastic composite materials are a valid alternative in construction and architecture. In fact, they are part of a circular economy perspective: for example, the wood used is usually a product of waste from the furniture industry that is recycled to be extruded again, thus limiting deforestation. Europe is currently the third largest market in the world for wood-plastic composites and I believe that EU policies for the environment and climate provide significant opportunities for the growth of the sector.
“For Bausano, enhancing this range of extruders is part of a broader programme, aimed at pursuing the sustainable development goals drafted in the United Nations 2030 Agenda.”