* Ford Motor Company and Jose Cuervo® exploring the possibility of using agave plants to the development of sustainable bioplastic, which could employ in the automotive industry
* Researchers tested the durability and heat resistance of the material from which potentially could produce, for example, glove box or cable bundles
* The successful development of sustainable composites could bring a lighter weight components, and thus lower fuel consumption
Ford and Jose Cuervo® examine the possibilities of the new bioplastic in the manufacture of interior and exterior parts such as wiring harnesses, ventilation units or glove compartment. According to preliminary findings, the new material seems very promising due to its durability and aesthetic qualities. Successful development of sustainable composites could lead to a reduction in the weight of vehicle components and consequently fuel consumption. Another advantage is that the new material would replace the substances produced from petroleum and brought further reduce the impact of car production on the environment.
Agave growing cycle lasts for at least seven years. After harvesting, the center of the plants, thermal treatment, followed by milling and extracting the juice for distillation. Jose Cuervo® use part of the remaining fibers such as compost on their farms. The rest apply local craftsmen manufacturing handicrafts and agávového paper.
According to the UN Environmental Programme throughout the world annually produces five billion tons of agricultural waste biomass. It is therefore a very abundant raw materials, but usually not sufficiently absorbed. Ford already has a fiber processing agávových experience. Already several years ago he had experimented with the production of "plastic" parts of sisal, a fiber from the leaves of agave sisal.
"In the current car is about 180 kg of plastic," said Debbie Mielewski, technical director of the research department of sustainable development, Ford Motor Company. "Our task is to find suitable application for organic composites of this type, and thus help reduce our impact on the planet. It's the work that I'm really proud of and which could have a broad impact across many industry sectors. "
Source: tz Fordmedia.cz
