BIOTTEK: Joint knowledge development on bioplastics

Collaborating on bioplastics

In collaboration with Senbis Sustainable Products B.V., Senbis Polymer Innovations B.V., and research institutions Wageningen University & Research (WUR), NHL Stenden (NHLS), and the University of Groningen (RuG), new polymers will be synthesised, analysed, and tested in various application areas. The mechanical and chemical recycling of biopolymers will also be investigated.

To develop targeted biodegradable polymers, more knowledge will be gathered about the mechanisms behind biodegradation. Wageningen University & Research (WUR) will join as an expert in this field and develop a method to measure biodegradation reproducibly and faster, gaining more insight into the underlying processes.

TNO’s role in the project

Additionally, this consortium aims to develop a fundamentally new approach to polymer chemistry by using artificial intelligence. TNO will investigate machine learning models using extensive datasets from the other partners. These models should be able to design new polymers with specific properties for textiles.

Pooling knowledge and research infrastructure on plastics

Besides a unique pooling of knowledge, the consortium collectively possesses relevant research infrastructure in the field of sustainable plastics. This enables the knowledge development project to be carried out properly.

Together, they are investing 6.6 million euros in research into sustainable plastics through the BIOTTEK project. The consortium receives support of 3.3 million euros from the Just Transition Fund (JTF).

Practical applications for bioplastic in the industry

At the end of the project, the BIOTTEK consortium aims to achieve the following results:

• Insight and knowledge about the relationship between biodegradability and the chemical, physical, and application properties of biopolymers;
• A validated AI model that can predict the properties of biopolymers and design new biopolymers with specific properties;
• A validated high-throughput method to measure biodegradation;
• Validated methods for the mechanical and chemical recycling of biopolymers;
• Proof-of-concepts of a soil and/or waste-water-degradable polyester with the right thermal and mechanical properties for use as a technical fibre or in the textile industry.