research and development
Inventing, optimising and supporting the deployment of new bioplastics is the heart of our business. Our development mission is to produce bioplastics that can challenge the dominance of oil-based plastics, and ultimately replace them completely.
Our research and development activities are tightly focused on tackling the intrinsic synthesis of bioplastics that currently keeps costs high and limits performance. Responding to these challenges will enable us to accelerate the adoption of innovative, natural plastics across a range of markets.
We have an extensive range of lab facilities that allow us to both test materials performance and to run pilot manufacturing and application tests on prototype products. Our expertise is extensive and covers everything from raw materials and production process to a thorough understanding of how materials and additives behave and perform during processing and storage.
Investigating lignin Biome is conducting research into a new, plentiful source of organic chemicals for the manufacture of bioplastics that could significantly reduce costs, expand functionality and increase performance.
Backed by a grant from the Technology Strategy Board and working in partnership with the University of Warwick’s Centre for Biotechnology and Biorefining, we are conducting a pioneering project to investigate the possibility of using lignin as an alternative, bio-based source of chemicals.
Biome personnel are working with the Warwick team to develop methods to control the lignin breakdown process to determine whether these chemicals can be extracted in significant quantities. The initial feasibility project will replace the oil-derived equivalent currently used in a polyester that conveys strength and flexibility in some of our products.
Building on this work, we will explore the possibilities for deriving a wide selection of bio-based aromatic chemicals from lignin as the foundation for the next generation of bioplastics.
Read more about our grant from the Technology Strategy board here.
Read more about our exploration of lignin here.
Industrial biotechnology
Industrial biotechnology is firmly supported by the UK government as a means of developing less carbon instensive products and processes. It poses a significant opportunity for the UK’s chemical sector to maintain and increase its competitiveness through the development of efficient and sustainable ways of satisfying our chemical and material needs. Bioplastics are key to this sector and are leading the way for other manufacturers to move into this space.
We are interested in hearing from potential partners for collaborative opportunities in the industrial biotechnolgy field. Please contact us to find out more.
