The Department of Science and Technology (DST), together with the CSIR, recently held two well-attended national workshops on a Biocomposites R&D-led Industrial Development Programme in South Africa. Part of the programme involves the establishment of a Biocomposite Centre of Competence (CoC), with the hub at CSIR MSM's facilities in Port Elizabeth.

The Department of Science and Technology (DST), together with the CSIR, recently held two well-attended national workshops on a Biocomposites R&D-led Industrial Development Programme in South Africa. Part of the programme involves the establishment of a Biocomposite Centre of Competence (CoC), with the hub at CSIR MSM's facilities in Port Elizabeth.

According to Dr Sean Moolman, who is currently driving the CoC establishment at the CSIR, there was a need to consult widely on the proposed strategy for the CoC, and also to try and involve as many interested parties and stakeholders as possible in the initiative. An open invitation was sent out to industry, government and TEI role players to attend the two workshops.

"The SA Biocomposites strategy framework aims to deliver biocomposites related competencies across the entire value chain, from production of natural fibres and other raw materials through to final product manufacture," he says.

He explains the value thereof: "A fully developed local biocomposites industry in South Africa has a potential market for natural fibres in the region of 10 000 to 15 000 tons (fibre) per annum. The associated employment requirement is estimated at 11 000 to 15 000 jobs in upstream plant cultivation and fibre extraction/processing, and an additional 2 500 to 3 000 jobs in downstream manufacturing industries. This translates to a potential R300 - R350 million per annum for rural fibre production and processing, and R2 - 2.5 billion per annum for final products."

The first national workshop, held on 25 October 2011, focussed on fibre and non-woven production and beneficiation. Topics discussed included fibre crop cultivation, fibre processing, biopolumers/bioresins and biocomposites manufacturing technologies.

The workshop held on 7 November 2011 concentrated on biocomposites, with the discussion sessions focussing on five targeted industries, namely building/construction, aerospace, automotive, packaging and general moulded products.

"Through the workshops we wanted to communicate the plans and intentions as widely as possible; determine existing activities, capabilities and interests; further develop the plans/technology roadmaps/projects for the different components of the CoC; and start crystallising the various interested parties/consortia for the different components of the CoC," says Sean.

He continues: "There was excellent participation and attendance at the workshops and we will adjust the CoC plans based on the inputs received. We look forward to further strong involvement and participation from government, industry and academia as we work towards realising the vision of a sustainable biocomposites industry in South Africa."