A new Horizon Europe project, SUSBOARD, has launched to transform the wood panel and furniture industries.
It will develop 100% biobased, formaldehyde-free and cost-competitive adhesive for particleboard (PB) and medium-density fibreboard (MDF). The project unites leading research institutes, global chemical companies, and major wood panel producers from Austria, Germany, Portugal, and Turkey, including: RTDS Association, Wood K plus, IHD Dresden, Cargill, BASF SE, Sonae Arauco, Kastamonu Entegre, Balorman, and Saréco.
The official kick-off meeting was held in Tulln, Austria, from 24–26 June 2025, hosted by Wood K plus.
Every year, Europe produces around 60 million m³ of PB and MDF, both of which are essential materials for construction and furniture manufacturing. Today, these boards still rely on fossil-based adhesives that emit formaldehyde and contribute significantly to carbon emissions. With a budget of €9,1 million, SUSBOARD will deliver an innovative alternative that not only meets industry performance standards but also supports Europe’s path to climate neutrality.
“SUSBOARD is a strong example of how science and industry can work hand in hand to deliver tangible solutions for Europe’s Green Deal Industrial Plan,” said RTDS Association, project coordinator.
Building on the success of the SUSBIND project, which achieved more than 80% renewable raw materials in adhesives, SUSBOARD will complete the transition by introducing a fully bio-based amine component. This breakthrough is expected to reduce the carbon footprint of wood boards by up to 30% while eliminating formaldehyde-related health risks for consumers and workers.
“SUSBOARD is bringing new possibilities to the wood panel and furniture industries. Our project will demonstrate that 100% bio-based adhesives can deliver competitive performance and cost efficiency while supporting Europe’s climate objectives,” added Wood K plus, the project’s scientific coordinator.
The project aligns closely with the European Green Deal, Circular Economy Action Plan, and Zero Pollution Action Plan, supporting Europe’s shift towards a fossil-free and greener future. By cutting industrial carbon emissions, reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, and fully eliminating formaldehyde-related health risks, SUSBOARD will contribute to healthier indoor environments and safer working conditions.
Over the next four years, the project will:
- Scale production of the new adhesive to multi-ton levels;
- Demonstrate performance on industrial production lines;
- Test applications in furniture manufacturing;
- Develop a prototype modular furniture product;
- Ensure sustainability through a full Safe and Sustainable by Design assessment.
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SUSBOARD will share updates through its new website (www.susboard.eu), newsletter, and social media channels. Follow the project on LinkedIn, X, and Zenodo for the latest news and results.