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Research and development of new formulations of additive-free materials classified as highly toxic and suitable for the preparation of shoe soles with different performance

PRTR Call for Proposals Project

Project that seeks to design and develop new additives for the footwear industry through the substitution of different potentially hazardous additives and with a clear prospect of entering the REACH lists of banned substances in the EU, with safer additives that maintain the quality, durability and performance of the final products without entailing a higher cost in the process. A complete study of the sole development process will be carried out, from the initial laboratory stage to large-scale production. Initially, an in-depth research will be carried out through a bibliographic search of possible safer alternatives. Among them, the obtaining of additives from renewable and sustainable sources such as sugarcane, functionalized starch or functionalized silica will be evaluated. Subsequently, the pre-dispersions of these additives will be carried out, developing different formulations with polymeric bases compatible with rubber. Possible modifications in the mixing conditions will be evaluated to reduce costs by optimizing the process. The pre-dispersed additives will later be used in the company RUIZALEJOS, where they are mixed with rubber to adapt to different conditions of use and obtain different properties. In summary, it is expected to develop new additives that are used for different functions in the vulcanization process (antioxidants, accelerators, anti-scorching), which are safe for the environment and health and maintain the same performance as the usual additives, which will improve the company’s competitiveness in the market.

Line of action:

Private sector

Status:

En ejecución

Location:

Arnedo and Calahorra (La Rioja)

Geographic scope:

España

Line of research:

Research and development

Execution date:

2024

Duration:

01/09/2024 - 31/12/2026

Total budget:

705,107.13 euros

Amount of aid from the Biodiversity Foundation:

352,553.56 euros

Cauchos Ruiz Alejo, S.A.U.

The objective of this R+D project is the study of new additives for the footwear industry for the substitution of different hazardous substances with potential prospecting of entering the REACH lists of substances banned in the EU. The aim of this project is to reduce the percentage of potentially hazardous or future banned additives in the formulation of rubber soles by 30% and to reduce waste by 10%.

programa
linea de actuación

Research and development of new formulations of additive-free materials classified as highly toxic and suitable for the preparation of shoe soles with different performance