132235Towards fully sustainable high-performance biocomposites for lightweight vehiclesClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKCellulose fibres hold a potential to provide a sustainable alternative to glass and carbon fibres. However, their application on a commercial scale is limited by the challenges around durability, water resistance, and structural strength/engineering performance. In the automotive industry, there is interest in replacing glass and carbon fibre, plastic and metal elements with biomaterials. Such substitution will result in the reduction of vehicle weight, leading to increased fuel efficiency and lower carbon footprint. Some success in this matter has been reported concerning the elements of car interiors, yet application of biocomposites for external parts remains a challenge. In this project we examine a novel modification of cellulose fibres in order to improve the water resistance and the strength/engineering performance related characteristics. Modified cellulose fibres will be used to produce samples that will subsequently undergo testing according to the specifications provided by car manufacturers. If successful, it will be a significant step towards 100% bio-based materials to be used in a car body.