Metsä Fibre, known for its commitment to sustainable bioproducts, is advancing its research with a new lignin product developed at its Äänekoski demo plant.
This lignin, derived from the pulp process, aims to replace fossil-based chemicals commonly used in concrete production. The product’s potential extends beyond concrete, offering possibilities in various applications.
The demo plant’s construction, located near Metsä Fibre’s bioproduct mill, is well underway, with a targeted start-up date in 2025. The facility, equipped by technology company ANDRITZ and supported by Dow, will produce two tonnes of this innovative lignin product daily.
Lignin, one of the most abundant biopolymers, is a significant byproduct of the pulp process. Metsä Fibre’s bioproduct mill produces approximately 1,800 tonnes of lignin daily, making it a valuable resource for developing sustainable alternatives. “Lignin has always been of interest from a research perspective. The market’s growing need for sustainable materials drives our focus on it,” says Anna Suurnäkki, VP of Research at Metsä Fibre.
Source: Metsä Fibre
With the LigniOx process, which uses black liquor from the bioproduct mill, lignin is extracted and refined. The product, in both liquid and dried forms, could act as a bio-dispersant plasticiser in concrete applications, enhancing pumpability and other technical properties. Existing concrete plasticisers are largely synthetic, with a growing global demand expected to rise, particularly in developing regions.
Metsä Fibre is optimistic about the product’s potential, especially as trial batches from the demo plant aim to gauge market interest. “We believe our lignin product has promise, and through the demo plant, we can test and refine it to meet market demands,” says Suurnäkki. This innovation could mark a significant step toward more sustainable, flexible concrete solutions.
Metsä Fibre, a subsidiary of the Finnish Metsä Group, is a global leader in the production of pulp, sawn timber, and bio-based solutions. Committed to sustainable innovation, the company leverages forest resources to develop environmentally friendly products, such as bio-based additives for concrete. Metsä Fibre relies on advanced technologies and responsible forest management to address the challenges of tomorrow's industry.
