DouwiseChem participated in the Future Innovation Tech Expo 2024 (FIX 2024), held from October 23 to 26 at Daegu EXCO.
DouwiseChem is a technology-focused venture company that has developed advanced nanomaterial technologies over the past 15 years through research at Sejong University. The company aims to reduce plastic waste and mitigate environmental pollution by researching cellulose fibers, developing composite materials, and producing applied plastic products. Its goal is to lead the global sustainable, eco-friendly plastics market.
At FIX 2024, DouwiseChem introduced its eco-friendly cellulose nanofiber (CNF) material for automotive interiors. This material combines inorganic nanomaterials with CNF through precise chemical control. Known as mineralized CNF (mCNF), this new material disperses well without clumping in plastic composites and remains stable even in high-temperature processes. The inorganic elements can be adjusted to exhibit specific properties.
The material is silica-modified, providing excellent flame resistance without additional flame retardants. Thus, it suits automotive interiors, exteriors, battery packs, and tires.
DouwiseChem explained, “Our eco-friendly manufacturing process for cellulose nanofiber uses only alcohol and water. The solvents used in production are recycled, reducing costs. By coating cellulose nanofibers with harmless silica, similar to sand, our material has strong eco-friendly advantages. Plastics containing our products maintain color and mechanical properties after recycling, allowing for cost savings and better compliance with environmental regulations.”
FIX 2024 featured specialized exhibitions, conferences, and business programs focusing on mobility, robotics, AI, and startups. The Daegu International Future Auto & Mobility Expo 2024 at EXCO’s East Wing showcased trends in UAM, autonomous driving, batteries, components, and services. Meanwhile, the 2024 ICT Convergence Expo Korea, held in the West Wing, exhibited AI, big data, blockchain, ICT, and metaverse technologies. The 2024 Daegu Robot Expo displayed industrial robots, humanoid robots, and digital transformation solutions for the robotics industry. The “Start-up Arena” was introduced to facilitate meetings between startups and experts from startup accelerators like Samsung C-Lab and Plug and Play.