DITF scientists 3D print innovative lignin glove coating

Scientists at the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) have succeeded in developing a flexible and robust glove coating by 3D printing using environmentally friendly lignin. Protective gloves, such as those used for work, sport, or household gardening, retrieve their protective function from a special coating. This coating provides abrasion resistance, makes the material waterproof and resistant to chemicals or oil, and even protects against cuts and punctures. Traditionally, these coatings are made of oil-based polymers, nitrile rubber, or latex.

Coatings subject to mechanical stress always suffer from a certain degree of abrasion dispersed in the surrounding area, which is also the case with coated protective gloves. To avoid long-term environmental pollution, materials with biodegradable abrasion particles should be used – the research project aimed to improve conventional protective equipment and integrate more sustainable materials.

The biopolymer lignin is a natural component of plant cells that is produced in large quantities as a by-product of paper manufacturing. Due to its properties, it represents an environmentally friendly alternative to oil-based coating polymers. The scientists developed biopolymer compounds containing lignin, which were used to produce thermoplastic materials that can be processed using 3D printing.

Lignin has few polar groups, which makes it hydrophobic and therefore insoluble in water. For this reason, they biodegrade slowly – making them particularly suitable for durable coating materials. Despite this durability, lignin particles released into the environment through abrasion biodegrade faster than the abrasion of conventional coatings, due to the much higher surface/volume ratio.

The use of 3D printing makes it possible to produce the coating precisely and efficiently and also makes it possible to adapt the glove to the individual needs of the wearer – increasing wearer comfort and promoting freedom of movement.

The DITF research project shows that the use of lignin not only offers ecological benefits but that protective gloves coated with it are also particularly durable and resistant, meet safety standards, and contribute to sustainability in the world of work.

The research project was funded by the Ministry of Rural Areas and Consumer Protection of the State of Baden-Württemberg as part of the Bioeconomy Innovation and Investment Program for Rural Areas ‘BIPL BW – Innovation’.