LignoValue Pilot Plant delivers depolymerised lignin for LEGACY Project, paving the way for biobased epoxy resins
VITO’s LignoValue Pilot Plant is the first pilot line in Europe to depolymerise lignin and convert it to bio-aromatics. The plant is fully operational and delivers lignin-based materials for development of innovative bio-based products like epoxy resins.
June 2025 marked another milestone moment for sustainable materials innovation: the LignoValue Pilot Plant completed its second large-scale delivery of depolymerised lignin, this time for the LEGACY project.
This depolymerised lignin, composed of soluble and reactive lignin oligomers, was developed using advanced depolymerisation techniques. It’s now being further processed by VITO’s material researchers, with the aim of producing 100% biobased epoxy resins for use in industrial flooring, a valuable contribution in greening the construction sector.
Beyond technical performance, this work is part of a broader effort to replace harmful bisphenols in coatings with safer, bio-based alternatives. While there’s still a way to go, we see this as a positive step toward healthier and more environmentally responsible materials.
The LEGACY project is supported by the European Union, NextGenerationEU through the Belgium Builds Back Circular (BBBC) initiative, as part of the National Plan for Recovery and Resilience (NPRR).
About the LEGACY project
The LEGACY project aims to eliminate bisphenol-A (BPA) from epoxy resin formulations used in heavy-duty coatings, particularly in construction. By demonstrating the availability, efficiency, and reproducibility of biobased epoxides, LEGACY seeks to address the environmental and health impacts of BPA, classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) due to its endocrine-disrupting properties.
Epoxy resins, widely used in various industries, are traditionally fabricated from BPA, contributing significantly to health and environmental risks. LEGACY focuses on producing BPA-free, fully biobased epoxy resins (BeRs) using lignin, a natural aromatic biopolymer. VITO's expertise in lignin characterisation, depolymerisation, and functionalisation will enable the production of biobased epoxide candidates similar to traditional fossil-based resins. The project will optimise the glycidylation process to scale up production and rigorously test the novel biobased intermediates for eco-toxicological impact.
LEGACY coatings derived from BeRs formulations will be tested on various substrates and showcased in workshops to engage stakeholders. The project aims to attract attention and investment in biobased materials through dissemination activities, promoting the use of BPA-free biobased epoxy resin coatings.
