BioStruct: A map of those working with flax in Europe: partnership, growth and sustainability in the service of bio-composites

20 . 01 . 2025

Last March, we talked about the BioStruct project, of which Techtera is a partner, launched in February 2024. This project, co-financed by the European Union as part of Horizon Europe, aims to optimise the manufacturing processes of composite parts by integrating natural fibre reinforcements into structural applications. Among the innovations targeted by the project, we find the development of a specific sagging process, “Modelling materials to take into account the variability of natural fibres, and the integration of bio-sourced sensors to measure the deformation due to structural load.” These advances will be achieved through the manufacture of two pilot examples: a full-scale wind turbine blade and a 6-metre-long motorised boat hull.

Create a map of those working with flax fibre in Europe

As part of this project, Techtera has created a map of Europeans specialising in flax for composites. The aim is to identify and qualify the main suppliers of flax fibres. This map takes into account essential criteria such as the location of those involved, their supply chain, their production capacities, their R&D activities and their financial health.

This map aims to facilitate partnerships by identifying key players in the flax supply chain, thus creating cooperation between the different sectors and stimulate innovation. It also supports the development of the bio-composites market by providing a better understanding of the industrial landscape, in order to help companies identify growth opportunities and reinforce their competitiveness. Finally, this map promotes sustainable practices by encouraging the use of local flax fibre resources. This helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with the use of synthetic materials, which are imported, in the vast majority of cases.

A White Paper to disseminate knowledge and stimulate partnerships

This booklet presents an overview of the bio-composites sector in Europe, setting out the major challenges it faces. It also highlights the importance of fibres in the manufacture of composites, detailing their industrial applications and the key role of textiles as reinforcements. A specific section is dedicated to flax fibres, addressing their production, mechanical properties and environmental benefits, while illustrating their concrete applications in the BioStruct project. Finally, the map of European flax suppliers provides a complete overview of the flax sector for bio-composites, accompanied by detailed fact sheets for each identified supplier.

Designed as a White Paper, the document is accessible to a scientific audience, even those not specialised in composites or natural fibres. Available in paper version during BioStruct the project events and conferences. A digital version can also be downloaded on request by completing this form.

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More information about the project

Contact: Clara LECLAIRE – cleclaire@techtera.org

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