The BioImpulse project gives new impetus to biotechnology in materials 02.10.2019: The BioImpulse project, first presented in Brussels on 2 October 2019 at the EFIB (European Forum For Industrial Biotechnology and the Bioeconomy), aims to create a new adhesive resin without any of the so-called Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).

The BioImpulse project, first presented in Brussels on 2 October 2019 at the EFIB (European Forum For Industrial Biotechnology and the Bioeconomy), aims to create a new adhesive resin without any of the so-called Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC).



By developing a biosourced molecule of interest, the project will open up new biotechnology applications in the materials field.



Coordinated by Michelin through its ResiCare entity, this collaborative project brings together major public and private players: FCBA, INRA[1]  and INSA, as well as Lesaffre through its Leaf business unit. Bioimpulse is supported by ADEME[2] under France’s Future Investment Program.



Industrial adhesive resins have traditionally contained SVHC classified compounds. The global market targeted by their substitution represents significant potential, mainly in the automotive and construction markets.




The main objectives of the BioImpulse project:



    Create a new adhesive resin without any SVHC compound, with an improved impact on both health and the environment


    Develop an industrial scale fermentation production process of a molecule of interest at a lower cost than its oil-based equivalent


    Promote the new adhesive resin technology in the automotive and construction markets (wood in particular)


    Produce this resin in small, compact and decentralized plants, as close as possible to customers, reducing its complexity and implementation costs.

 


The originality of the project lies in integrating a significant section of the value chain: from the biological production of the molecule to the performance of the resin in use. Eco-design (in particular via the fermentation production process, with the possibility of 2G[3] biomass supply) will be at the heart of the project in order to take the health, environmental and economic aspects into account.




    Project duration: 6 years (2019 - 2025)


    Total amount: €28.1 million


    Construction of the 1st industrial production unit planned for 2026 (depending on the industrial context and the market at the time).

 

 

[1] Through TWB, TBI, the LGC and CRITT-bio industries

[2] Agence de l’Environnement et de la Maîtrise de l’Energie

[3] Non-competitive with food





With this research project carried out in collaboration with our partners, Michelin continues to demonstrate its commitment to the environment, including outside the tyre industry, by making its expertise in the field of sustainable materials available to industry as a whole.


Florent Menegaux, Michelin CEO


 

     
- Michelin also photo