Project R-14769

MYCEPAD - MYCELIUM PAPER ADDITIVE (Research)

West Brabant (The Netherlands) is characterized by an extensive presence of the chemical, agro-food and energy sectors, largely based on fossil resources. These sectors provide many jobs in the region. The transition to biobased requires new knowledge and skills for green chemistry and new manufacturing industries. The Dutch paper industry produces about 2.8 Mton/year at 18 production sites. Oil-based additives/auxiliary agents are used to obtain the desired product properties. From this sector, chain and consumers, there is a demand for sustainable additives for various packaging. From the government, there are more stringent laws and regulations regarding "waste materials", which are discharged via wastewater into the surface water of the Department of Public Works and Water Boards. This creates challenges regarding the guarantee of drinking water quality; Water Framework Directive. This project aims to make the paper production process more sustainable with a focus on product additives (higher added value). The goal is to ferment and apply mycelium-based additives to 2D and 3D packaging on a pilot scale. Starting at TRL 5, we aim for TRL 8, with a demo plant for scale-up. Due to the easy replacement of additives with green variants, no significant cost change for end users is expected, making introduction realistic

01 January 2024 - 31 December 2026