Mercedes F1 & Synesqo: Using Bio-Resin in Formula 1
A significant step has been made towards sustainable motorsport innovation, with Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team bringing bio-based materials to the track.
The team introduced a bio-based resin on a technically performant part of its W16 race car for the first time under race conditions.
The #63 W16, driven at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, crossed the line in second place with rear wheel shields made from carbon fibre reinforced with a resin that contains 30% bio-based content.
Mercedes’ milestone
The development demonstrates that performance materials in Formula One can also be environmentally responsible, representing a milestone in the team’s journey towards achieving net zero across all scopes by 2040.
The debut highlights the increasing role of sustainable materials in high-performance environments.
By applying the bio-based resin to the rear brake duct wheel shields, intricate aerodynamic surfaces exposed to extreme racing conditions, the team has proven the capability of renewable alternatives.
“In an era where innovation drives performance and shapes industry futures, the pursuit of smarter, faster and more efficient technologies has become a defining challenge of our time,” says Toto Wolf, Team Principle & CEO, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.
“This project not only reflects our commitment to sustainability but also highlights the role of Formula One as a test bed for pioneering technologies that can benefit a range of industries.
“Our sport is the world’s fastest test lab, and these innovations represent our relentless pursuit of performance and appetite to contribute beyond the grid.”
Partnering for sustainability
The project was made possible through a collaboration with Syensqo, a key partner in material innovation.
“We are proud to be powering sustainable innovation within Formula One, introducing sustainable carbon fibre composites on a technically performant component,” says Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.
“This project with Syensqo highlights our commitment to reduce our environmental impact while maintaining the highest standards of performance.
“By integrating bio-based resin within a carbon fibre composite material, we are setting a new benchmark for the future of motorsport and beyond.
“The fact that these materials have been derived from by-products associated with the creation of bio-diesel is an added benefit and indicates the power of advanced sustainable fuels."
Syensqo’s sustainable application
For Syensqo, the successful application of bio-based resin in such a demanding environment underlines the wider potential of renewable material technology.
“We are pleased to see our project with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team come to life on the W16 race car,” says Rodrigo Elizondo, President of Syensqo Composite Materials.
“Our bio-based resin technology represents a significant step forward in sustainable materials innovation.
“By replacing traditional petroleum-based components with those derived from renewable sources, we are not only introducing circularity in our product design but also paving the way for future innovations.
“We are very pleased to see this material applied in such a high-performing environment, showcasing its potential for broader applications."
