GMC™ – Green Moulding Compound is finalist in Materialica Design + Technology Award 2024
Hikari, an innovative start-up company from Italy, has developed the composite material Green Molding Compound GMC® in collaboration with Ranger, a SMC molding company founded 55 years ago and the Laboratory of Polymers and Composites at the University of Ferrara. This new material is similar to conventional Sheet Molding Compounds (SMC) and Bulk Molding Compounds (BMC), but replaces conventional components with environmentally friendly alternatives. Specifically, glass fibers are replaced by natural flax fibers, and a polyester resin with a high natural content (around 50%) is used as the matrix. In addition, mineral fillers are replaced by waste from food processing, which significantly improves the environmental sustainability of the material, as shown by analyses of the carbon footprint.
GMC® is used by Hikari for the Hedera vertical garden system, where a balance between environmental sustainability and mechanical properties is crucial. Additionally, the GMC® material reflects a highly innovative interpretation of the circular economy concept. Its potential extends beyond the Hedera project, with various other applications being explored to leverage its sustainable properties.
The contact details are as follows: simone.pietta@ranger.it