The objective of the project is to develop a new air filtration and purification system that will reduce risks and ensure compliance with insurance requirements. The research project is being implemented within the framework of the “Forest Sector Competence Center” project under the “Support Instrument for Research and Internationalisation, 2nd Round” initiative by SIA “Forest Industry Competence Center”.

The total project budget amounts to EUR 511,150.00, of which EUR 347,803.50 is co-financed by the European Union.

Project Contract No.: 5.1.1.2.i.0/2/24/A/CFLA/001
Title: Development of a Functional and Operationally Efficient Air Filtration Technology and Equipment Prototype for Wood Processing Industry Facilities
Study No.: JP03
Project Period: 01.01.2025 – 31.12.2025

Reporting Period: 01.2025 – 03.2025

Activities completed during the first interim stage:

1. An in-depth analysis of optimal parameters was conducted to support the development of the equipment’s technical specifications and core technology, including:

• simulation of the filter element cleaning system operation;
• analysis of pressure impact on the filter casing;
• assessment of explosion force dynamics.

2. In collaboration with various international partners, thorough research and calculations were carried out, resulting in the definition of all necessary technical and physical requirements for the equipment.

3. Theoretical models were developed and evaluated. In addition, detailed technical drawings were prepared.

4. A suitable filtering material was selected, and all required materials for prototype manufacturing have been ordered.

Reporting period: 04/2025 – 06/2025

Activities completed during the second stage:

1. The first prototype of the equipment has been manufactured and tested, identifying and eliminating design and mechanical deficiencies to ensure optimal operation and to prepare the basis for the production of the final prototype.

2. Functional testing under factory conditions has been carried out. Design and mechanical deficiencies were identified and corrected. The technical functionality of the equipment has been improved in line with the specified requirements. The production of the final prototype has been initiated.

Reporting period: 07.2025 – 09.2025

Activities completed in the third interim stage:

1. Construction of the base and installation of exhaust piping in the production facilities were carried out. The final prototype of the equipment was manufactured and delivered.

2. The final prototype was tested. Fan performance was verified, including pressure levels, airflow rates, vibrations, operation of the chain conveyor, and the impact of the generated vacuum.

Reporting period: 10.2025 – 12.2025

Activities completed in the third interim stage:

1. A detailed preparation plan was developed and critical technical parameters for the upcoming tests were defined.

2. Test protocols were prepared and potential risks were assessed, ensuring a structured and efficient continuation of the research process.

Reporting period: 10.2025 – 12.2025

Activities completed in the fourth interim stage:

1. Final prototype testing was carried out under real working conditions. The prototype discharge mechanisms were tested, the automation and overall filtration efficiency were tested and analyzed, and the automation system was adjusted to the production equipment.

2. The results provide essential information about the prototype’s functionality and efficiency, establishing the necessary basis for further optimization of production processes and the commercialization of the product.

The aim of the project is to develop interior wood panels with a charred finish that comply with fire reaction class B-s1, d0, according to testing standard EN 13501-1, ensuring safe use in building interiors for both private and public construction.

The research project is being implemented within the framework of the project “Forest Sector Competence Centre”, under the initiative “Support Instrument for Research and Internationalization, 2nd Round”, No. 5.1.1.2.i.0/2/24/A/CFLA/001.

The total project budget is EUR 307,560.00, of which EUR 202,130.00 is funded by the European Union.

Project Agreement No.: 5.1.1.2.i.0/2/24/A/CFLA/001
Development of an interior wooden panel prototype with a charred finish, compliant with fire reaction class B-s1, d0
Research No.: JP12
Project period: 01.04.2025 – 31.12.2026

Reporting period: 04/2025 – 06/2025

Activities completed during the first stage:

1. During the reporting period, birch plywood panels with pine and oak lamellas were prepared for burning tests, their behavior and visual effects were evaluated, and the durability properties of PVA D3 and PU adhesives were tested.

2. The activities made it possible to determine the most optimal visual outcome of the burning process, confirm the suitability of PU adhesive under thermal load, and obtain data that will allow refining further laboratory tests.

Reporting period: 07.2025 – 09.2025

Activities completed in the second interim stage:

1. Fire-treatment tests were carried out at our production facility to determine the optimal thickness of solid wood lamellas. In parallel, comparative tests of various treatment products were also conducted.

2. Indicative laboratory tests were performed on previously prepared panels to confirm that the obtained results are aligned with the objectives of the study.

Reporting period: January 2026 – March 2026

Activities completed during the fourth reporting period:

1. Testing of the developed wooden panel prototype continued. Laboratory fire tests were carried out on the selected technological solution, and various binders (adhesives) were tested to identify the option providing the highest fire reaction resistance. Interior design suitability tests were also conducted by evaluating different panel shapes, binder types, charcoal layer thicknesses, and surface coating options.
2. During the reporting period, testing of the developed wooden panel prototype continued in order to assess the product’s readiness for certification.

On 03.02.2026, SIA “Laimdotas” concluded Agreement No. 9.3-1-L-2026/27 with the Latvian Investment and Development Agency for receiving support under the programme “Promotion of International Competitiveness”, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.