Epoxies: key enablers of the EU green deal

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Contributing to the
EU Green Deal.

Epoxy resins can contribute to achieving the decarbonisation objectives set out by the EU Green Deal in several ways. The EU Green Deal is a comprehensive plan to make the European Union climate-neutral by 2050. It encompasses various policies and initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and promote sustainable development. Epoxy resins play a role in this transition through the following mechanisms:

01

Lightweighting

Epoxy resins are lightweight materials commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, and transportation industries. By replacing heavier materials in these applications, epoxy composites can help reduce the overall weight of vehicles and structures. Lighter vehicles require less energy for propulsion, leading to lower emissions in the transportation sector.

02

Energy-efficient Manufacturing

Epoxy resins are versatile and can be used in various manufacturing processes. They offer excellent adhesion, fast curing, and low shrinkage properties, enabling energy-efficient and faster production cycles. By reducing energy consumption during manufacturing, epoxy resins contribute to lower carbon emissions.

03

Durable and Long-lasting Products

Epoxy resins are known for their exceptional durability, chemical resistance, and mechanical properties. Products made with epoxy, such as coatings, adhesives, and composites, tend to have a longer lifespan than alternatives. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements and lowers overall material consumption and waste generation, thus contributing to a more sustainable economy.

04

Enhanced Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Epoxy resins are used in construction materials, such as insulation foams, flooring, and coatings. These materials can help improve the energy efficiency of buildings by providing better thermal insulation and reducing energy losses, leading to lower energy consumption for heating and cooling.

05

Renewable and Bio-based Epoxy Resins

Developing renewable and bio-based epoxy resins is gaining traction. Using bio-based feedstocks, such as plant-derived materials, instead of traditional fossil fuel-based feedstocks, the carbon footprint of epoxy resins can be reduced significantly. These sustainable alternatives align with the EU Green Deal’s objective of promoting circular economy principles and reducing dependence on finite resources.

06

Recycling and Circularity

Efforts are being made to develop recycling technologies for epoxy resins and epoxy-based products. By enabling the recycling of these materials at the end of their useful life, it helps reduce waste generation and fosters a more circular economy.

It’s important to note

 that while epoxy resins offer benefits in decarbonisation, their overall impact on achieving the EU Green Deal’s objectives also depends on factors like proper waste management, sustainable sourcing of raw materials, and responsible manufacturing practices. Moreover, it’s essential to consider the entire life cycle of products to ensure their environmental sustainability.