Digitalizing circular bioeconomy for boat: 3D printed kayak based on wood fiber reinforced recycled plastics

Purpose and goal:

The project resulted in the following, 1) we succeeded in developing printing materials on recycled plastic and FibraQ for the manufacture of larger objects via robot-based additive manufacturing. 2) we printed a complete kayak in a continuous print path for the first time in the world. After the first success, we have printed another 7 kayaks in one month.

We paddled three of them in Saltholmen with GKF members and it went really well and 3) we have identified potential for a new digital production and consumption method based on 3D printing and bio-renewable material FibraQ. Expected results and effects:

We showed the advantage of using wood fiber or FibraQ for high-quality and valuable applications. We also showed the power of the new digitized production method. By being able to use materials in the way we have worked with in the project, we contribute in a positive way to meeting Sweden´s climate goal in 2045.

Approach and implementation:

The consortium worked closely and collaborated closely. The result was satisfied with all parts. The project will be presented and published at Bioinnovations conference and website as news and at the RISE conference.