A leading project by: Kiilto (Finland) – Subcategory: Innovative projects
Addressing environmental challenges
Our planet faces environmental challenges, including climate change and biodiversity loss. To mitigate these issues, it is crucial to transition from a linear economic model to a circular one, where materials are reused and waste is minimised. Kiilto’s Debonding on Demand (DoD) project contributes to finding a solution by enabling the controlled dismantling of products, preserving their components for reuse.
Innovative technology for modular design
The company has developed debondable adhesive technology allowing for greater modularity in product design. The adhesive’s chemical properties enable controlled disassembly when external energy, such as heat or electromagnetic radiation, is applied. This innovation facilitates the reuse of components, reducing the need for new materials and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Real-world applications
One notable application of this technology is in bathroom renovations. The debonding technology allows for the reuse of ceramic tiles, which are typically discarded during renovations. Manufacturing ceramic tiles is quite energy-intensive. By reusing tiles, we can drastically reduce greenhouse emissions and the environmental impact of raw material extraction.
Beyond bathroom renovations, the debonding technology has potential applications in the broader construction and furniture industries. The company has developed various debondable matrices for different adhesives, including water-based dispersion adhesives, cement-based products, and reactive structural adhesives. This versatility allows for easy repairability and supports novel circular business models across multiple sectors.
Chemical properties and advantages
Traditional adhesives rely on covalent cross-linking, which can sometimes release chemicals during the bonding process. In contrast, The project’s debonding technology uses supramolecular units and dynamic covalent bonds, which can be broken with minimal energy input. This method is safer for both human health and the environment, offering a more sustainable alternative.
Meeting regulatory and market demands
The European Union’s environmental ambitions and legislation are driving industries towards lower emissions and a circular economy. This innovative project aligns with these goals, enabling new products, services, and business models that meet regulatory requirements for maintainability, longevity, and reusability.
Research and development
The development of the debonding technology was a three-year research project undertaken by Kiilto in collaboration with academic and commercial partners. Funded by Business Finland, the project has led to a pending patent and ongoing research into commercialisation opportunities. Kiilto is exploring further innovative circular business models where this innovation could be used.