Recently, ICIQ has developed novel bio-materials in the frame of a TecnioSpring project with Prof. Kleij’s group and the KTT area

TECNIO director Manuel Palacin has visited the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ–CERCA) to share successful experiences and see the centre’s facilities. Palacin met with Dr. Fernando Bravo, Manager of ICIQ Knowledge and Technology Transfer and Industrial Projects Department (KTT); Dr. Sergio Sopeña, Business Developer at ICIQ’s KTT Department; Dr. Laura López, Manager of the Research Projects and International Collaborations Unit; and Dr. Eva M. Alcázar, Manager of the Research Projects and Grants Unit.

TECNIO is a seal awarded by the Generalitat de Catalunya through ACCIÓ, the agency for competitive business of Catalunya. The seal identifies and gives visibility to technology developers in the R+D+I system of Catalunya who present valuable technological capabilities, and the ability to transfer them to strengthen the business position and make the Catalan innovation ecosystem internationally attractive. ICIQ is an associated institution of the TECNIO seal, recognised for its technology development and transfer opportunities provided by its KTT area.

“Thanks to TECNIO, at ICIQ we have the chance to apply for Nuclis R+D and Tecniospring projects, two opportunities to develop applied research and transfer technology to industry and society”.

Dr. Bravo

Recently, the institute has developed a TecnioSpring project, an international programme to attract talent and promote international cooperation, under the lead of Prof. Kleij and the ICIQ – KTT area. The project focused on novel bio-based composite materials used in structural, lightweight systems, and derived from limonene oxide based polycarbonate (PLC) while using natural fibers for reinforcement. These novel composites can compete with commercial ones and can be certified with a biosourced label. Its use includes structural, heavy load, lightweight materials, such as those applied in automobiles, pipes and frameworks for construction. The novel materials have been protected with a patent application, in collaboration with our partners from ICREA and U. Potsdam (ref. EP24382310.1).

Its objectives include reducing the environmental impact by helping to lower the carbon footprint; providing economic benefits by creating a new value chain from farmers to plastic producers, up to end users; and benefitting society by creating new jobs and promoting greener and more sustainable processes.

Recently, the group also published related work through the article “Improved thermoset materials derived from biobased terpene macromolecules via photo-crosslinking” in the Royal Society of Chemistry journal.

TECNIO also provides access to Nuclis R+D empresarial, grants for industrial research projects and experimental development related to a circular economy, climatic change, and high-tech risks.