NEW PRODUCT TO REPLACE PLASTIC

UPM has developed a new composite material, UPM ForMi, which is ready to conquer the world. The product combines pulp fibre and plastic into a product which has plastic-like properties but the environmental benefits of wood.

The new composite material contains 20–60% pulp fibre, depending on the requirements for the final product. In certain applications the share of pulp could increase to as much as 80%. The product has been developed in UPM’s AFM (Advanced Fibre Materials) programme, which is one of three ongoing programmes in UPM’s New Business & Development unit. 

UPM ForMi will be delivered to customers in the form of granules, and processed using injection moulding. Potential applications exist in a variety of industries. In particular, the target is large volume end uses, where the product would compete even with ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) plastic. Typical applications include hard shells used in electronics industry devices and other household electrical apparatus, such as vacuum cleaners, televisions and kitchen appliances. Test runs are underway in, among other sectors, the furniture and the automotive industries, where it would be used in car interiors. 

UPM ForMi has significant environmental benefits compared to conventional plastic, and its carbon footprint is significantly lower. The composite contains up to 60% renewable raw materials acquired from sustainable sources, and bioenergy has been used in the manufacturing process. The new composite is recyclable and also suitable for energy use.

UPM ForMi’s properties are uniformity of quality, odourlessness and strength, and it is easy to dye. Polypropylene and birch pulp have been used in the first UPM ForMi products.

Text: Tuovi Similä
Photos: Jari Leino

This article is based on an interview with Stefan Fors, Head of UPM’s Advanced Fibre Materials programme.