Researchers Moctar Coulibaly, Erik Rump, Qian Zhou, and intern Ralf van Rooden from MNEXT’s Biobased Resources & Energy group and Biobased Building Blocks and Products group participated in the 2024 Dutch chemistry conference (NWO CHAINS) in Veldhoven on December 3 and 4. It is the conference where chemists in science and industry come together. The theme of NWO CHAINS 2024 is Transformation.
During the event, the team presented recent findings from the “Totally Nuts” project, which focuses on developing sustainable, circular solutions for cashew nut shells. Conducted in collaboration with postdoc Guanhua Lu and Professor Katrien V. Bernaerts from Maastricht University’s Sustainable Polymer Synthesis Group, their research explored using cardanol as a renewable feedstock for thermosetting polymers.
The polymers developed in the project showed good thermal and mechanical properties as well as good recyclability, showcasing their potential for sustainable material recycling. This research highlights an innovative way to valorize cashew nut shells, typically treated as waste, into valuable industrial resources.
More information about the Totally Nuts project (RAAK.PRO04.095): click here
