Researchers develop sustainable carbon fibers from microalgae

A research team led by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has successfully created carbon fibers using renewable microalgae, eliminating the need for petroleum in producing this advanced material, according to a press release.

The project, called GreenCarbon, represents a major step toward large-scale sustainable carbon fiber production. These fibers can be used across several industries, including aviation, automotive, wind energy, and high-performance sports equipment.

Along with TUM, the consortium includes the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology (IGB), the materials company SGL Carbon, and aerospace giant Airbus.

“Our GreenCarbon value chain opens up new opportunities to replace fossil-based resources across the chemical industry,” said project coordinator Thomas Brück of TUM, as reported by Interesting Engineering.

Carbon fibers are known for being lightweight, durable, and strong. They are usually made from acrylonitrile, a material derived from petroleum, which has harmful environmental impacts.

Airbus has already tested a helicopter made with the algae-based carbon fibers, demonstrating the potential for wider use in aviation.

The GreenCarbon team now plans to refine the technology further and expand its applications on an industrial scale. They also see possibilities for using this method to replace fossil fuels in making other polymers.