The main objective of the SUR3D project is the use of cork stoppers to obtain a new compound with a biodegradable polymer suitable for additive manufacturing (AM) with extrusion technologies. In this way, the upcycling of cork stoppers is intended to be carried out within the framework of circular economy strategies. The generation of this new material is also intended to promote the substitution of fossil-based plastic products in favor of renewable bioplastics in industry.

The selected materials will be mixed or compounded in different proportions in order to evaluate their influence on the different characteristics of the material, but first the potential for use with additive manufacturing technology by extrusion will be tested. If this potential is confirmed, the appropriate parameters for printing will be determined and specimens will be manufactured for characterization. The specimens will be used to determine their mechanical, thermal, rheological and acoustic insulation characteristics, as well as their degree of biodegradability. The results obtained will be compared with the biodegradable material without additives in order to observe the differences. The complete characterization of the material will be used in the future to search for new applications in the field of additive manufacturing in specific sectors. It is possible to obtain different variables in the manufacturing process in order to modulate the characteristics of the final product according to the desired applications.

The SUR3D project opens up the possibility of using a fraction of material considered waste (used cork stoppers) and reintroducing it to the market as a new material with added value. The project will therefore contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of the cork and wine sector itself, since a waste has been identified and work is being done to turn it back into a product.

SUR3D will consist of characterizing and preparing both the cork stoppers used and the biodegradable polymeric matrix so that both are suitable for the manufacture of new materials. Tests of printability will be carried out with the new materials with which test tubes will also be manufactured in order to characterize them taking into account the AM process. The project aims to establish the basis for the future development of certain applications, as well as the future construction of prototypes and demonstrators of tools, objects, structures or other elements for the wine industry and other high value-added sectors such as the automotive or aerospace industries.

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