A substantial amount of olive tree waste is generated globally during harvest each year, with leftover branches, twigs and leaves often discarded of via burning. Ford’s collaborative CompOlive initiative seeks to find value in this waste stream, helping to reduce plastic usage in manufacturing and supporting cleaner air in local areas.
For its auto parts trial, Ford sourced its olive waste from groves in Andalucía, Spain – the region with the highest production of olive oil in the world. Engineers first used simulation technology to test the feasibility of the materials, before experimenting with different ratios (of olive waste fibres and recycled polypropylene) to realise a quality with adequate durability, strength and mouldability. The finalised substance (40% fibres and 60% recycled polypropylene) can be heated and injection moulded into selected parts.
Using the biocomposite, the team has produced prototype footrests and elements for the boot area that are sufficiently robust and durable. Ford is now evaluating the process for mass use to potentially help deliver the next wave of electric vehicles.
Bio-based materials are gaining traction in the automotive sector, in part due to their low-carbon and renewable resource credentials (while also helping manufacturers to move away from traditional synthetics).
Ford’s effort is commendable for its collaborative nature, as it proves to be mutually beneficial for numerous industries and communities at the same time.
