Wood-based Carbon Fiber Conserves Energy

Independent German research institute Technikum Laubholz has opened a state-of-the-art pilot plant to demonstrate its process for synthesizing carbon fiber from local hardwood resources. The institute was founded in 2020 through the initiative of the state of Baden-Württemberg under the auspices of the Ministry of Food, Rural Affairs, and Consumer Protection.

Dubbed WDBSD CF, the wood-based carbon fiber is made using an energy-efficient process that stabilizes the fibers at lower temperatures and in a shorter time than when producing carbon fibers from fossil-based raw materials. This reduces both energy consumption and production costs, supporting sustainability goals. Further, the use of direct spinning techniques for cellulose fibers further reduces operational costs and environmental impact.

Fossil-free property profile

“WDBSD CF allows us to expand the property profile of carbon fibers without relying on fossil resources. While conventional carbon fibers remain relevant, wood-based carbon fiber offers an environmentally friendly and highly effective alternative with its thermal resistance, excellent mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity,” said Erna Nawrath, fiber development specialist at Technikum Laubholz.

In addition, cellulose-based carbon fibers do not emit the same level of harmful gases during production, removing the need for complex exhaust treatments. This ensures a cleaner, more environmentally friendly production cycle.

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Replacement for energy-intensive PAN-based process

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is the primary precursor for conventional carbon-fiber production. While PAN-based carbon fibers exhibit very good mechanical properties and are widely used, their production is energy-intensive and reliant on fossil fuels. 

The production of PAN fibers includes stabilization at 200° to 300°C, carbonization at 1,000° to 2,000°C and, depending on the end application, graphitization at temperatures above 2,500°C. These processes require consumption of large amounts of energy over extended periods of time.

Sustainability and supply-chain security

“WDBSD CF technology opens up new opportunities for companies to create sustainable solutions for a range of products. It addresses current demands for resource efficiency, independence from global supply chains, and substitution of fossil resources,” said Tobias Wolfinger, CEO of Technikum Laubholz. Target markets include sports equipment, musical instruments, lightweight components for aerospace and transportation interiors, innovative structural designs, and energy storage systems.

“WDBSD CF technology significantly reduces energy consumption in fiber production while providing excellent mechanical properties that are crucial in technical applications,” added Rolf Moors, head of fiber-based biopolymer materials at Technikum Laubholz.