UPM launches wood fiber, plastic polymer composite that can be dyed and molded like plastic; material produced in Lahti, Finland, is delivered to customers in granule form

Wendy Lisney

HELSINKI , October 31, 2011 (press release) – UPM has developed a new composite for both industrial and consumer end-uses. The new composite is made from virgin wood fibers and clean plastic polymers. The proportion of wood fibres in the composite varies from 20 to 60 percent depending on the end-use.

UPM’s new composite is suitable for various end-uses, explains Stefan Fors, Director of UPM’s Advanced Fibre Materials. “UPM’s new composite is ideal for electronic and automotive industries. It is also good material for furniture, tableware and other goods for everyday living. The possibilities are extensive. Our strong point is the raw material — renewable and wood-based pulp fibre.”

The new composite can be dyed and moulded like plastic. Products made from UPM’s composite are consistent quality, odourless and safe. The material is delivered to customers in the form of composite granules, which UPM produces in Lahti, Finland.

“Our aim is to find new international development partners for our product and increase production with the business”, states Mr Fors.

UPM produces three different grades of the new composite: G is suitable for general end-uses, like everyday goods, toys and tableware. S is developed for special surfaces and is an ideal material for furniture, for example. T is produced for technical end-uses, such as electronics.

UPM’s specialists will present the new composite material at the Lahti Plastics Exhibition 16-18 November 2011 in Finland, stand Ct1. www.lahdenmessut.fi

##

UPM leads the integration of bio and forest industries into a new, sustainable and innovation-driven future. Our products are made of renewable raw materials, which are recyclable. UPM consists of three Business Groups: Energy and Pulp, Paper and Engineered materials. The Group employs around 24,500 people and has production plants in 16 countries. UPM's annual sales exceed EUR 10 billion. UPM's shares are listed on the Helsinki stock exchange. UPM – The Biofore Company – www.upm.com

UPM New Businesses and Development (NBD) is an essential part of the Group’s renewal and biofore strategy. The purpose of NBD is to commercialise new bio-based products and increase future profitability. Advanced Fibre Materials, Fibril Cellulose and Biochemicals are key programmes within NBD, leading the development process from ideas to new products and businesses.

* All content is copyrighted by Industry Intelligence, or the original respective author or source. You may not recirculate, redistrubte or publish the analysis and presentation included in the service without Industry Intelligence's prior written consent. Please review our terms of use.