PPS Toeslagprojecten

Electrifying Chemistry of the Future
University of Groningen / BASF company NL

Designing the green chemistry of the future is key to our manufacturing industry with major implications for the production of the broad spectrum of chemicals ranging from pharmaceuticals and personal care products to plastics and materials. Facing the challenge replacing tradition chemical processes, the direct use of light or electricity holds great promise via control redox processes for chemical bond formation. In this joined academic industrial project the focus is on the development of unique two electron redox processes which will provide unmatched opportunities for low-energy and waste free chemistry.

Microstructural Optimization of Porous Media in PEM Water Electrolyzers (MICRO-PEMWE)
Eindhoven University of Technology-TU/e and Bosch Transmission Technology BV

The project focuses on improving green hydrogen production through better design of crucial components in
water-splitting devices called Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers (PEMWEs). We will develop a multi-scale computational model to understand the complex transport phenomena within these layers and use it to guide the manufacturing of advanced PTL (porous transport layers) and MPL (microporous layers) structures.

The Solution is Clear: Water-Soluble Isocyanides!
Maastricht University / EnzyTag BV

Chemo-enzymatic peptide synthesis (CEPS) is a sustainable method for making complex molecules like peptides and proteins, which are used in treatments for diabetes, cancer, and other diseases. Together with Enzytag, we are developing a new way to modify peptides using a chemical reaction called the Passerini reaction. To overcome the challenge of poor solubility in the isocyanide building blocks required for this reaction, we are designing water-soluble versions to enhance efficiency. Thereby, we aim to expand its use to even larger proteins, like insulin, potentially leading to better and more affordable treatments for patients.

MycoClay: A step towards biobased concrete
Avans Hogeschool / ABT BV

This feasibility study investigates the potential of binding clay with mycelium to develop a biobased alternative to cement in concrete production. ABT Consulting Engineers and MNEXT aim to combine mycelium’s binding properties with clay’s structural benefits to create a sustainable, durable, and circular material as an alternative to cement in concrete production for construction. The study examines various mycelium types, natural additives, and binding methods to assess technical feasibility of production, followed by an exploration of its mechanical strength (compressive, tensile and shear) and durability while considering scalability as well as environmental impact.

Putting a Greenhouse Gas to Use: Zeolite-based Catalyst Regeneration with Carbon Dioxide as Probed with Operando Spectroscopy
Utrecht University / BASF

Zeolite-based catalysts deteriorate over time in a process, called coke formation. This coke appears in different forms and amounts. Coke has to be removed during a well-tailored regeneration process without damaging the Brönsted acid sites of the zeolites. It would be exciting when we could not only follow the coke species gradually removed, but also assess the local temperature of the zeolite during catalyst regeneration in an attempt to regain the original Brönsted acidity. This project explores the use of CO2 as a co-reactant during zeolite regeneration thereby identifying the optimal temperature and gas composition to obtain stable catalytic performance.

Melt Processable Optically Transparent Polyimides with Low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
Polymer Technology Group Eindhoven / South China University of Technology / SABIC Specialties / Kingfa / DPI

With the applications of optical electronic modules, higher requirements are put forward for thermoplastic polymers in terms of transparency and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). We here propose a multiple modification strategy to decouple the melt processibility from CTE and optical properties. Chemical structure modification and physical blending of silica nanoparticles are combined to lower CTE efficiently of polyetherimide PEI while maintaining optical transparency. The developed PEI can be used for mass production of optical communication lenses.

Novel organocatalytic approaches for the selective deconstruction of plastic waste
Dutch Polymer Institute / University of Amsterdam / POLYMAT / Sabic Specialties / Teijin Aramid / Envalior

Our society depends heavily on consumer goods. However, this also leads to a significant waste problem after their end of life. Liquefaction is a relatively new technology for recycling waste, avoiding the environmental impact of the incineration/land-filling of these consumer products. In this fundamental project, University of Amsterdam (UvA) and SCW systems together will explore the feasibility of liquefaction for recycling carbon-containing consumer goods. The liquefaction treatment of the consumer goods, even if they contain mixed building blocks, will lead to the formation of molecules that can be used to make new consumer goods, ensuring a circular technology.

Effect of Hydrogen on the Durability of Polymeric Materials
Dutch Polymer Institute / University of Groningen / University of Bologna / Teijin Aramid / Envalior / Shell / Hutchinson

The H2-DuraPol project will study the impact of high-pressure hydrogen on polymeric materials and reinforcements used in hydrogen transportation and storage. Through extensive experiments, materials will be exposed to pure hydrogen and thoroughly analyzed, inspecting chemical, morphological, and structural changes, as well as effects on the polymer-reinforcement interface. The project will offer critical insights into H2-induced ageing of these materials which will enable the design of energy materials with enhanced durability.

Europium-doped mixed-chalcogenides for warm white LEDs
Utrecht University / Seaborough Research B.V.

White light LEDs are taking over the lighting market. In present LED lamps a blue LED is combined with phosphors that convert blue light into green/yellow/orange/red light. Especially improving the efficiency of the red light emitting material can help improve the efficiency. In this project new red phosphors are developed for violet/near-UV LEDs. The europium ion is the ideal candidate but is a poor absorber of blue light. For violet LEDs there are new possibilities and europium phosphors with strong absorption for violet light will enable a new generation of white light LEDs with a higher efficiency for warm white light.

Human plasma derived chemokine-directed auto-antibodies
Utrecht University / MS Vision

It is in our blood, fishing for chemokine-directed autoantibodies. In this work protein baits will be used to “fish” for chemokine-directed autoantibodies in the blood of donors who experienced recent viral infections. After enrichment the quantity, polyclonality and identity of these autoantibodies will be characterized by bottom-up and top-down de novo mass spectrometry. The chemokine signalling proteins will be provided by Absea (Berlin), whereas for the mass spectrometric analysis we will collaborate with MSVision (Almere) to enhance capabilities in antibody sequencing. The antibodies we here characterize may in the long term have therapeutic value to treat autoimmune diseases.

 

PFAS-free Enduring Hydrophobic Coatings for Lithographic Equipment
Eindhoven University of Technology / ASML

The number of transistors on microprocessors has been doubling every 2 years, which is enabled by novel photolithographic techniques. Wafer alignment during the process is most essential, which requires precise alignment of sensors and effective water management. Many hydrophobic coatings used inside ASML lithographic machines are currently PFAS-based materials which use will be restricted due to upcoming PFAS-legislation. They are omnipresent in the equipment due to their unique combination of properties: outstanding hydrophobicity and resistance to the conditions inside the lithographic machine. The EHCO project aims at developing PFAS-free hydrophobic coatings with a long service time under the conditions within lithographic equipment.

 

Design Optimised Process Windows For Batch Distillation
Technische Universiteit Eindhoven / Susphos

The company SusPhos is going to build a full-scale plant to produce sustainable phosphate products in Moerdijk, the Netherlands. This marks a significant leap into a more sustainable agriculture and resource management in Europe.

Recycling of waste consumer goods by Liquefaction
University of Amsterdam / SCW Systems

Our society depends heavily on consumer goods. However, this also leads to a significant waste problem after their end of life. Liquefaction is a relatively new technology for recycling waste, avoiding the environmental impact of the incineration/land-filling of these consumer products. In this fundamental project, University of Amsterdam (UvA) and SCW systems together will explore the feasibility of liquefaction for recycling carbon-containing consumer goods. The liquefaction treatment of the consumer goods, even if they contain mixed building blocks, will lead to the formation of molecules that can be used to make new consumer goods, ensuring a circular technology.

Towards Materials Circularity of Single-use Flexible Pharmaceutical Bags
TNO / Polymer Science Park / Janssen Biologics / Bristol Myers Squibb / Renolit Healthcare / Avantor Fluid Handling / Thermo Fisher Scientific / Wittenburg / Halix

Plastics, being lightweight and biocompatible, are ideal for single-use items in healthcare and pharmaceutical facilities. Many single-use plastics in pharmaceutical manufacturing are not hazardously bio-contaminated, but are incinerated due to multilayer/multi-material constructions and the lack of a value-chain. CIRSUB targets single-use multilayer flexible bags used for various reactions in facilities like Janssen, BMS, and Halix, producing up to 120k kg/year of waste. We also aim to aggregate post-production waste of bags and films from Renolit Thermofisher, and Avantor. By collaborating with Steris, BioBTX, and Wittenburg for decontamination, recycling, and recompounding, TNO will coordinate the project, assess recycled material quality, and find new market solutions with PSP.

DeCoTex
Avans / Saxion Hogeschool / Ft Innovations / Shell / Sabic / DOW / Borealis / Braskem

Coloured textile polyester can currently be recycled to a limited extent. The current recycling of polyester fabrics/knits/films is mainly down-cycling to insulation mats, etc. In down-cycling, the recycled raw material no longer has the purity of the original raw material.

If circularity is applied at all, it is almost always mechanical, where the final color is determined by the mixture of colors and therefore usually becomes anthracite/black, see the photo (Material from Frankenhuis and yarn from Spinning Jenny) and the usability/application is therefore very limited.

At DeCoTex, we go back to the undyed pure (virgin) polyester from colored fibers by decolorizing printed/dyed polyester textiles with supercritical technology. Avans MNEXT has already demonstrated this on a laboratory scale together with Ft Innovations. Avans MNEXT will analyse the material properties and mechanically test them. Saxion University of Applied Sciences is researching the fundamental physical textile properties of the recycled decolourised rPET. Because DeCoTex is a sustainable process for the decolorization of polyester textiles, it contributes to the development of textile circularity into fully-fledged renewed textiles.

Exploring rubber recycling by biocatalysis
University of Groningen / GECCO Biotech

Rubber is a versatile material utilized in numerous applications, from tires to industrial seals and consumer goods. However, after their use, these rubber products often become waste, heavily contributing to environmental pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to develop effective recycling methods for spent rubber to mitigate its environmental impact and promote sustainability. In this project, the use of enzymes will be studied for recycling rubber material.

UpcycleYeast
Eindhoven University of Technology / Wageningen University and Research / Revyve

This project tackles the challenge of feeding a growing global population by turning waste from beer production into valuable protein sources. We are focusing on spent brewer’s yeast, transforming it into Single-Cell Proteins (SCPs), which are rich in nutrients and can replace animal proteins in foods. By using innovative techniques to analyse and improve the quality of these proteins, we aim to create sustainable, high-quality food products while reusing waste from the brewing industry. This not only enhances food sustainability but also supports a circular economy by upcycling industrial byproducts.

Recycling of vitrimer-based composites using green supercritical CO2 processing
Dutch Polymer Institute / University of Groningen / Shell / Teijin Aramid / SKF / Envalior / SABIC Specialties

The development of straightforward and green methods to recycle vitrimer-based materials is necessary to accelerate their development at the industrial level in the framework of the circular plastic economy. The Re-Vitri project aims to develop a thermomechanical recycling process for vitrimers and vitrimer-based composites by using extrusion assisted by supercritical CO2 (scCO2). The plasticization efficiency of scCO2 on different vitrimers for high temperature applications will be assessed using analytical tools such as X-rays, FTIR and rheology. Strategies for direct recycling as well as for separation and recovery of composite fibers under scCO2 will be explored.

AutoPlastic
Dutch Polymer Institute / Auto Recycling Nederland / Sabic / Maastricht University

With new automotive recycling legislation, recycling targets will be introduced for all materials used in the car where before only heavier materials like metals were recycled. The AutoPlastic project provides Dutch automotive industries with a competitive edge within the circular plastics ecosystem by bringing together automotive waste producers, plastic manufacturers and knowledge institutions. The project employs analytical and digital technologies that will link physiochemical properties of waste streams, pre-treatment procedures and the quality needs for reuse or recycling of automotive plastics. By developing a method to evaluate physical-chemical performance indicators for automotive waste plastics, the project outcome promotes higher recycling rates in automotive value chain.

RegenPrint: Enabling circular consumer goods through biobased 3D-printing
Wageningen University & Research / AMS Institute / Junai /

With 3D-printing, we can make products for a circular economy, but the materials need to be sustainable. Therefore, WUR, AMS institute, and Junai develop biobased materials for 3D-printing from organic waste streams. They will improve the durability and quality of these materials. To create real sustainable solutions they combine different fields and connect feedstock selection, material development and product design. They will therefore also improve the 3D printers. This will lead to high quality and durable 3D-printed products from biobased materials that support resilient solutions for a circular economy.

Thermal Recycling for Improved Circular Systems
TNO / Synova Renewable Technology

TRICS investigates an innovative refining process that converts a variety of bulk plastic waste streams into building blocks for consumables and consumer goods, like disposable cups, electronics, and disposable medical goods2. Using mild temperatures to breakdown mixed plastics, this process treats challenging waste streams which  are normally incinerated or landfilled. This refining method, enhances sustainability, reduces fossil fuel dependence, and supports a circular economy. TNO and Synova work together to optimize the process for the treatment of large plastic waste streams to create new resources for user and consumption goods production.

Recycling of lithium iron phosphate batteries
TU Delft / Super B Lithium Power

Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) will play an important role in the energy transition, but there are also concerns about the fate of these batteries at the end of their lifetime. Worldwide, only 5% of all spent batteries are currently recycled due to technical and economic reasons, which means that huge amounts of LIBs, including the critical raw materials, are wasted. In this project, the researchers at the TU Delft will combine the forces with Super B, a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery producer, to develop a tool for battery health diagnosis and a closed-loop process for recycling LFP batteries.

Sustainable Battery Electrolytes
University of Amsterdam / SynTech Energia / B-LYTE

In this project, we will focus on the eco-friendly production of borate battery electrolytes as a sustainable alternative to hexafluorophosphate (PF6−), a crucial electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries. PF6− production fully depends on the critical raw materials phosphate rock and elemental phosphorus (P4), and involves unsustainable, energy-intensive, and inefficient processes. Leveraging abundant materials and renewable energy, our innovative B-LYTE method promises a waste-free, efficient manufacturing process. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also addresses economic and environmental challenges, marking a significant step toward greener grid storage solutions and the broader adoption of renewable energy.

Discarded LFP batteries; the new source for CRM’s
TNO / SusPhos

In a collaborative effort, SusPhos (a chemical company) and TNO (a knowledge institute) are partnering to develop a sustainable and economically viable recycling process. Their goal is to recover critical and strategic materials (Li and P) from the increasing volume of End-of-Life lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. Given the projected growth of this battery stream and the rising demand for these materials, recycling LFP batteries will becomes crucial to meet material demands. This project contributes to Europe’s ambition to recycle more CRMs, foster a circular economy, and stimulate economic activities in the Netherlands.

Biobased Innovative Glycols from Glycerol
Wageningen Research / Green Glycols

In project BIGG, upcoming producer of biobased mono-propylene glycol (MPG) ChemCom and research institute Wageningen Food & Biobased Research (WFBR) will collaborate to develop economically viable routes to higher glycols, like dipropylene glycol (DPG) and tripropylene glycol (TPG), from safe and renewable feedstock. These widely used products are currently produced from the petrochemical intermediate propylene oxide, which is classified as carcinogenic and mutagenic by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). When successful, the project will make a significant contribution to the transition from a fossil-based chemical sector to one that is based on renewable carbon sources and safe-by-design principles.

Reducing pesticide use and pollution by spray charging nozzles
University of Amsterdam / GreenA

We propose developing novel nozzle materials that electrostatically charge pesticide spray droplets, enhancing targeting and reducing environmental contamination. Recent research shows that self-charging sprays through electrokinetic effects can significantly alter spray plume dynamics and minimize droplet coalescence. By optimizing this phenomenon, we aim to create more efficient, eco-friendly pesticide application methods.

A key challenge in pesticide spraying is achieving a monodisperse drop size distribution; large drops bounce off leaves, while small drops drift away, polluting water sources. Coalescence is the main cause of broad drop size distribution. Our interdisciplinary approach combines expertise in fluid dynamics, polymer chemistry, and agricultural technology to charge droplets, using electrostatic repulsion to inhibit coalescence. We will innovate materials for nozzle construction and surface coatings, optimizing surface charge density. Advanced characterization techniques will evaluate charging performance and spray characteristics.

Prototype nozzles will undergo field trials with our industrial partner, GreenA. Key metrics will include spray coverage, drift reduction, and pesticide efficacy compared to conventional methods. Success could transform agricultural spraying technology by enabling precise control of droplet size and trajectory, reducing pesticide use and environmental impact. This research addresses the urgent need for sustainability in agriculture while ensuring effective crop protection. Additionally, insights gained on charge generation in polymeric materials may lead to innovations in energy harvesting and advanced manufacturing.

 

Coldspray AM for a new generation of composites
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences / Fiberneering / NLR /

Composites from thermoset resins are known to be stronger, thinner and lighter. To further enhance these already great properties, it will be investigated if the additive manufacturing technique coldspray AM can provide new functionalities to resin based products. As a coating deposition method, coldspray AM allows the operator to go beyond a simple coating layer and to continue building until a 3d printed part is formed. In this study Fiberneering, the Netherlands Aerospace Centre and Windesheim UoASc will investigate the possibilities of this new technique for functional coatings and printed-on connector parts.

Kinetics of electrochemical hydrogen evolution at high pressure
Leiden University / HyET Electrolysis / HyET Hydrogen

In this project, Leiden University, HyET Electrolysis and HyET Hydrogen collaborate with the aim of evaluating and understanding the basic electrochemistry aspects of making (green) hydrogen via water electrolysis using a model pressurized reactor. This involves the basic electrochemical kinetics, the stability of the electrodes, and the hydrogen and oxygen bubble dynamics under pressure. These insights will be valuable for upscaling high-pressure water electrolysis.

Project Prometheus
Delft University of Technology / Danone Research

Heat treatment is applied in the food industry to ensure a level of food safety for the final product by inactivating micro-organisms and/or harm-full enzymes which naturally occur in the ingredients. The level of food safety is strongly related to the target group of the product (e.g. dairy products) and is directly linked to the applied temperature and the duration at which this temperature is maintained. Because of heat-treatment, the shelf-stability of the product is impacted due to side reactions that take place. The shelf-stability involves protein clusters that sediment, phase separation & texture (rheology) loss. This project aims to develop numerical methods to predict the processability (rheology, viscosity) and stability (particle size, visual inspection of microdomains) of food formulations using molecular and process modelling. This will play an important role in the sustainable food transition tailored to societal needs.

Towards zero-emission processes in microbial biotechnology
Delft University of Technology / dsm-firmenich

Current processes in industrial biotechnology, with products ranging from pharmaceuticals to car fuels, predominantly use (partially) refined sugars as feedstocks. While sugars are renewable, agriculture and subsequent sugar refinery from plant sources is associated with land use and emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide. In this project, scientists from TU Delft and dsm-firmenich collaborate to investigate and develop new feedstocks, processes, products and industrial micro-organisms with the goal to enable elimination of greenhouse gas emissions in industrial biotechnology, and decrease land use. In particular, the project explores how small molecules generated from CO2 and ‘green’ electricity or from agricultural residues can ultimately replace refined sugars in the manufacturing of sustainable chemicals.

Development of advanced solid-state NMR spectroscopy to study sustainable performance polymers
Dutch Polymer Institute / Nijmegen University

Solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy allows the investigation of structure and dynamics of polymers relating to their functional behaviour. It is an attractive method to examine polymers and interfacial structures. However, NMR suffers from an inherently low sensitivity in terms of mass sensitivity. The development of ultrafast magic-angle spinning (MAS) probes brings the ssNMR spectroscopic resolution to an extraordinary high level, enabling great differentiation of chemical structures. This advanced method will be applied in the project to polymer composites, to give detailed insights about the polymer-fiber interphase, which plays crucial role also in the efficient recovery/recycling of these materials.

Venom to Victory: Harnessing Organ-on-a-Chip for drug discovery
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam / Mimetas

Snake venoms contain a rich source of bioactive molecules that exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. The potency and selectivity of these compounds offers great for drug discovery, with recent studies suggesting the use of snake venom as a source for novel anticancer therapies. In this proposal, the Vrije Universiteit Venom Research Group will collaborate with the organ-on-a-chip company MIMETAS to develop and apply organ-on-a-chip models for profiling snake venom toxins as potential anticancer drug leads.

Development of advanced solid-state NMR spectroscopy to study sustainable performance polymers
Dutch Polymer Institute / Nijmegen University

Solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy allows the investigation of structure and dynamics of polymers relating to their functional behaviour. It is an attractive method to examine polymers and interfacial structures. However, NMR suffers from an inherently low sensitivity in terms of mass sensitivity. The development of ultrafast magic-angle spinning (MAS) probes brings the ssNMR spectroscopic resolution to an extraordinary high level, enabling great differentiation of chemical structures. This advanced method will be applied in the project to polymer composites, to give detailed insights about the polymer-fiber interphase, which plays crucial role also in the efficient recovery/recycling of these materials.

Innovative EMBOlization materials by Structure-Property relationships and Optimized Chemistry
Eindhoven University of Technology / Triplemed

Aortic aneurysms affect up to 10% of individuals worldwide, with potentially life-threatening consequences if left untreated. A new minimally-invasive procedure proposed by Triplemed injects an embolization material to fill the aortic cavity. The success of this procedure relies on the correct flow properties of the material, whose composition is currently heavily based on trial-and-error. By combining numerical and experimental approaches, we aim to investigate the material properties required in these challenging flow conditions, and unravel the fundamental structure-property relationships linking material chemistry to macroscopic properties to be able to design new advanced materials with the right functionality for healthcare purposes.

Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships for C1-Symmetric Catalysts for Olefin Copolymerization
Dutch Polymer Institute / University of Naples Federico II / University of Perugia / Polymer Technology Group Eindhoven / Nijmegen University / SABIC / DOW / SHELL / Borealis / Braskem

Improving catalyst performance is very complex and the limited number of datapoints available precludes true machine learning approaches. Only for molecular catalysts, developed for isotactic polypropylene, the underlying chemistry is well known and a limited number of computational descriptors yield highly accurate models. However, modelling the molecular catalyst of industrial importance for the production of LLDPE, plastomers and elastomers is more challenging, as they often lack symmetry elements. The goal of this project is to develop simple models using “chemically intuitive” computational descriptors that allow conclusions about design principles that will improve catalyst performance.

Harnessing synthetic data and artificial intelligence to make anti-cancer drugs better
Universiteit Leiden / Dompé Farmaceutica

Many anti-cancer therapeutics target one or more proteins called kinases. Unfortunately, they often do so unselectively, thereby causing side-effects. In this proposed research project between Leiden University and the Italian Dompé Farmaceutica, we will use 3D models of these proteins and all preclinical kinase inhibitors to predict the way they interact. Using artificial intelligence methods, we will then try to predict the strength of these interactions. This will allow us to predict which potential drugs are safest and help guide the development of new drugs to be as selective as possible. Using AI methods should make this process much faster and cheaper than the current laborious experimental testing. The data generated and models trained in this project will be made available to the larger scientific community.

GreenCoat: Changing Coatings for a Greener Future
Avans Hogeschool / Stahl International / Puroc /

Coatings are applied to surfaces for various purposes, primarily to protect, decorate, or modify their properties. They are crucial in the automotive, aerospace, construction, and marine industries for their ability to enhance durability, appearance, and performance. Still, they are also highly resistant to degradation and substantially threaten our environment.

The GreenCoat project addresses the challenge of enhancing the biodegradability of two typical coatings. It will prepare and synthesise coatings with enhanced biodegradability, explore pre-treatment effects, and share findings. Expected outcomes will help to design environmentally friendly coatings that readily degrade in nature.

Towards medicines for treatment of liver disease mediated by ABC-transporter ABCB4
Utrecht University / Rectify Pharmaceuticals

Mutations in the protein family of ABC-transporters cause a range of inherited diseases. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the best known one, but also Stargardt disease (STGD1), adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD1), and different forms of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). These diseases are caused by mutations in one specific ABC-transporter gene and the resulting protein defect.

A true cure would require correction of the gene, but for most CF patients a near-cure has become available with the development of small-molecule Positive Functional Modulators (PFMs) that correct and enhance the defective CFTR protein. The industrial partner in this project is developing PFMs for diseases caused by mutations in other ABC-transporter genes, including ABCB4. Defects in the ABCB4-protein lead to progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3 (PFIC3), which leads to liver disease and often liver failure. ABCB4 plays a critical role in bile acid and cholesterol transport out of the liver, and its function also has implications for non-monogenic indications in hepatobiliary disease, such as PSC (Primary sclerosing cholangitis).

Whereas medicines can be approved for the patient without understanding how the medicine works, it helps development of therapy for all ABC transporters when the disease-causing defect in ABCB4 and the mode of action of modulator compounds on the protein are understood.
The aim of this project is to establish a toolset for ABCB4, the second ABC-transporter industrial partner is developing PFMs for, and to start characterizing the ABCB4 wild-type and defective protein and the mode of action of the first candidate medicines.

mRNA-LNP delivery for treatment of bleeding disorders
Leiden University / Liposoma B.V. / Vesiculab Ltd

Blood coagulation factor-VII deficiency is an autosomal recessive bleeding disorder and the only available treatment is protein replacement therapy, consisting in a lifelong infusion of recombinant FVII-activated, or plasma-derived concentrate in case recombinant protein is not available. These repeated injections can be both disruptive and costly to the patient’s quality of life. To solve this major problem we propose lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mediated mRNA delivery to treat these bleeding disorders. In this project we will join forces with Liposoma B.V. and Vesiculab Ltd to exploit rationally optimized cell-specific mRNA-LNP delivery towards the liver where we aim to obtain cell-specific stable release of therapeutic FVII and FVIII as protein replacement therapy.

Elastic Bioplastic: PHA Conversion to Thermoplastic Elastomer
MNEXT / Colorfabb B.V. / Podoprinter B.V.

Centre of Expertise MNEXT (Avans UAS) is working together with Colorfabb B.V. and Podoprinter B.V. on a project focussing on PHA (Poly-Hydroxy-Alkanoates), an environmentally friendly alternative for plastic. The aim of the project is to explore whether PHA can be modified in such a way that a mouldable rubbery substance is created that can be used to print insoles for therapeutic podiatry. Podoprinter has the knowledge and technology to 3D-print insoles. Colorfabb has the expertise on PHA-based products such as printing filament. MNEXT has the expertise and facilities to carry out applied research.

Microplastics, chemical leaching and porous asphalt (ZOAB)
TNO, Heijmans, RWS

Due to strict emissions standards and the rise of heavier electric vehicles, tyre road wear particle (TRWP) emissions have now surpassed exhaust emissions. These pose a potential threat in terms of microplastic pollution and chemical leaching. This project will investigate the potential environmental impact of TRWP and whether (management of) porous asphalt (ZOAB) can have a mitigating effect. The project analyses the properties of TRWP, including additives and their effects on
degradation. We then determine potential environmental impact based on leaching behaviour and known toxicity with and without ZOAB and investigate biological solutions for clean-up of roadside soils.

ReCiN
NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences / Citoforma Advanced 3D printing solutions / Druckwege

The ReCiN project focuses on making 3D printing materials for Stereolithography (SLA) more sustainable. NHL Stenden conducts research into natural raw materials based on Northern Dutch biomass sugars such as chitin and starch to develop renewable 3D printer inks. These inks must be suitable for industrial applications and lead to expensive expenditure with a lower environmental impact than current materials. SME partners Druckwege and Citoforma help validate the extinct printer inks to gain insight into manufacturability and wastage. The goal is to replace fossils with raw materials in the 3D printing industry.

Wood to Wheels: Bridging Biomass and 1,3 butadiene in flow-chemistry
Maastricht University / ETB Global B.V. /

In collaboration with ETB Global the conversion of γ-valerolactone from biomass into 1,3 butadiene will be researched. The project will gain insight into the reaction mechanism, the identity of reaction intermediates and optimal reaction conditions. As an alternative to ethanol as starting material, photo induced synthesis of 1,3 butadiene in a flow-reactor format from GVL has not been reported before. The platform will be hyphenated with ion mobility spectrometry, and new Bronkhorst multi-sensors, allowing the simultaneous in situ measurement of physical and chemical parameters. The intended outcome is a “candidate process” forming the basis for an industrial sustainable production process.

AI-driven discovery of nano-electrocatalysts for H2 production
Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research / VSParticle B.V.

The AI4H2 project aims to pioneer the future of clean hydrogen (H2) fuel through a unique collaboration. This initiative uses novel AI tools to discover catalysts capable of efficiently splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, decreasing the need for rare and expensive materials. DIFFER’s strong experience in AI-driven research on materials, together with VSParticle’s pioneering nanomaterial technology, is directed towards enhancing the production of H2 through renewable energy sources. By identifying optimal catalyst combinations, AI4H2 is laying the groundwork for an accessible, sustainable energy future, making clean H2 fuel a more viable option for energy systems.

Exploring the Potential of Operando Time-Gated Raman Spectroscopy for Real-Life Catalyst Health Monitoring
Utrecht University / BASF

The goal of this research project is to explore operando time-gated Raman spectroscopy in a pilot-scale reactor bed, which is loaded with catalyst extrudates or pellets. In a first step, this analytical approach will be explored for detecting along the reactor bed coke deposits during the dehydrogenation of light alkanes over non-noble metal solid catalyst materials. In a second step, an automatic regeneration routine will be developed based on the acquired operando Raman data. Finally, we will explore the analytical tool also for the methanol/ethanol-to-olefins (METO) process using zeolite-based catalyst materials.

Killing Three Birds with One Stone: Operando Measuring of Temperature and Coke Type and Amount during Catalysis
Utrecht University / BASF

Catalysts unfortunately deteriorate over time in a physicochemical process, called coke formation. This coke appears in different forms and amounts. Coke deposits ideally have to be removed during a well-tailored regeneration process. It would be exciting when we could follow not only the type and amount of the coke species formed, but also assess the local temperature of the catalyst bed, while the coke deposits are formed and removed. This is exactly what this research project aims to realize; i.e., determining these three properties of the catalyst during regeneration and regeneration making use of a single analytical platform.

Understand solid catalyst lifetime when using circular feeds
Utrecht University / Avantium

It is crucial to switch from fossil sources to circular sources (waste, biomass, recycling of CO2 and plastic) to meet our need for fuels, chemical building materials and materials. These circular sources contain a lot of water and oxygen-containing components, which threatens the lifespan of catalysts in subsequent conversions. Studying this is challenging, because these processes must be investigated at high temperatures and pressures. Researchers from Utrecht University, in collaboration with Avantium, will investigate the influence of adding water to reaction mixtures on the lifespan of supported catalysts, and how this lifespan can be optimized.

Engineering electrode design for enhanced green hydrogen production
University of Groningen / ElecHydro BV

Improved electrode designs are essential to enable the production of green hydrogen through water electrolysis. In this project, ElecHydro – a small-medium enterprise based in Buinen (Drenthe) – will join forces with researchers from the University of Groningen to explore a new engineering concept used for designing an electrode that is expected to display highly efficient bubble management leading to enhanced performance in the oxygen evolution reaction and in the hydrogen evolution reaction involved in alkaline water electrolysis.

Accelerating the random-phase approximation for heterogenous catalysis
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam / Software for Chemistry & Materials BV

Current computational methods for studying how metals catalyse chemical reactions are either time-consuming and inaccurate or accurate but slow. Theoretical modelling is however a vital part of the ongoing efforts to develop even better catalysts which are desperately needed to accelerate the energy transition by reducing our energy demands, for example by enabling the transformation of biomass or carbon dioxide into chemicals.Through a partnership with the Amsterdam-based company SCM, we will develop a more efficient computer algorithm which aims to bridge the gap between speed and accuracy.

Computer aided selection of anti-fouling agents for polymer reactors
DPI / TUe

Wall-sheeting is a fouling mechanism that limits the operation of polymerization equipment in terms of throughput and heat transfer and eventually increases downtime. We propose to study fouling mechanisms in fluidized bed polymerization equipment due to temperature (particle softening) and triboelectrification through simulations and experiments. We will quantify how the hydrodynamics and heat transfer are affected and investigate the mechanism and effectiveness of various anti-fouling agents. By better understanding these mechanisms, we will be able to select more directed fouling mitigation strategies for a wide range of operation windows.

Bio-based Building Foundation
Avans University of Applied Sciences / De Hoop Terneuzen / Waterschap Rijn & IJssel / Rodenburg Biopolymers / Heijmans / Dura Vermeer / la-di-da design and architecture / Stichting The Green Village

Sustainable bio-based construction materials for underground applications, such as deep building foundations, are still uncommon. Traditionally, only one bio-based option has been available, which are timber pilings. However, timber pilings have limitations in terms of longevity since the upper part is prone to deterioration in underground environments. Currently, non-sustainable upright pile extensions (in Dutch: ‘oplangers’) made of concrete, steel or even recycled plastics are used to address this issue. Therefore, the consortium behind the Bio-based Building Foundation (BBF) project explores the potential of bio-based materials as an alternative for the production of upright extensions in timber pile foundations.

Exploring the Potential of Operando Time-Gated Raman Spectroscopy for Real-Life Catalyst Health Monitoring
Utrecht University / BASF

The goal of this research project is to explore operando time-gated Raman spectroscopy in a pilot-scale reactor bed, which is loaded with catalyst extrudates or pellets. In a first step, this analytical approach will be explored for detecting along the reactor bed coke deposits during the dehydrogenation of light alkanes over non-noble metal solid catalyst materials. In a second step, an automatic regeneration routine will be developed based on the acquired operando Raman data. Finally, we will explore the analytical tool also for the methanol/ethanol-to-olefins (METO) process using zeolite-based catalyst materials.

Installing the magic methyl group in drug molecules
UvA / AstraZeneca

Methyl groups are known to play a key role in pharmaceutical molecules. The simple addition of a methyl group to a lead molecule can result in a significant increase in potency. Consequently, the development of methods to introduce methyl groups into complex molecules is highly sought after. Late C-H functionalisation is a powerful approach that allows chemists to bypass tedious syntheses and accelerate drug analogue synthesis. In this project, we will develop sustainable methods for C-H methylation of complex molecules, which will later be applied to a wide range of lead compounds.

Continuously optimize extrusion of thermoplastic profiles with ultrasonic vibrations
Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven University of Technology, Profextru, CF Kunststofprofielen, Trimaflex, Technirub, Aeson BV, NRK

Thermoplastic profiles are widely used in industry and construction. These profiles are usually produced from virgin (not recycled) thermoplastics. But for the benefit of sustainability and a circular industry, it would be better if profiles were made from recycled material. Extrusion companies currently have difficulty making dimensionally stable profiles when working with recycled material. The Plastics Technology Lectorate, in collaboration with Aeson, has demonstrated that the extrusion process can be quickly adjusted with an ultrasonic actuator in the extrusion die. This technique has the potential to facilitate extrusion of recycled thermoplastic profiles. The professorship wants to further develop this technology, from TRL level 2 to TRL level 4.

New enzymes as tools to explore adaptive immunity via immunoglobulomics
Utrecht University / Genovis AB Sweden
Immunoglobulins are some of the major molecular players in the adaptive human immune system. In addition, they are increasingly developed and applied as therapeutic proteins to battle cancer, autoimmunity, and infectious diseases. Current knowledge on human immunoglobulins is for a large part still extrapolated from laboratory animal studies. In our lab we develop tools to monitor and sequence individual antibody clones from human biofluids. Our tools and approaches are quite innovative, but still somewhat limited to the IgG1 and IgA1 sub-classes, i.e. two of the at least nine human antibody types actually present in circulation. In this project we aim to discover and apply new enzymes and methods to expand our toolbox to achieve a wider coverage of the human immunoglobulome, ideally covering all isotypes and sub-classes.

Ion exchange coating for liquid biopsy to capture and release hypermethylated DNA under mild conditions|
Twente University / Qurin Diagnostics B.V.
How to find tiny amounts of cancer DNA in someone’s urine. Our body can turn off genes on our DNA by methylation. Cancer cells turn off genes that restrict cell division, resulting in hypermethylation of these genes. Fragments of both healthy and cancer DNA can be found in blood and urine. Measuring hypermethylated DNA in urine can be used to tell whether someone has cancer or not. The advantage of measuring in urine is that people can test at home without the need for needles. The main challenge is that the amount of DNA in urine is very small and the amount of cancer DNA even smaller. In this project, a carrier with a special coating will be developed to capture DNA from urine and to release it without harsh chemicals for measuring with a sensor. Elution methods will be evaluated in order to assess capture amounts and release yields. The method will be adapted to match the workflow of Qurin Diagnostics and to allow detection with their envisaged aMZI optical sensing platform.

Exploring insect enzymes: an underexploited source of biocatalysts
Groningen University / GECCO Biotech BV
New enzymes can also offer more sustainable alternatives to existing chemical processes. By using enzymes as biocatalysts, one can develop more efficient, environmentally friendly processes that produce fewer waste products and use fewer resources. This can help reduce pollution and conserve energy, both of which are crucial to protecting our planet. Additionally, new enzymes can help create new products that may have previously not been possible, further advancing our scientific and technological understanding. Insects exploit the power of enzymes in various biological processes. For example, the bombardier beetle uses enzymes to produce highly reactive compounds as part of its defence mechanism. When in danger, the beetle will mix and spray a solution that reaches temperatures of 100 °C, thereby deterring predators. Another more known insect-based product is honey. The honey bee produces and secretes a mixture of enzymes to convert the collected plant nectar into honey. Recently, the identity of all honey bee enzyme in honey have been identified. Yet, they have not been studied in detail. In this project, individual honey-processing enzymes from the honey bee will be produced and their catalytic potential will be explored for their use in chemical processes.

Better chemistry, better implants, better lives
PTG/e BV / Xeltis BV
Xeltis is developing world-first restorative heart valves and blood vessels that allow restoration of patient’s body-own tissue, potentially improving quality of life for millions of patients each year. PTG/researchers (PTG/e BV 100% owned company of TU/e) will focus with their more than 18 years experiences on material understanding of ‘chemical – physical – rheology – processing’ of novel (bio)polymeric structures/materials. The key will be to develop suitable routes for better shelf life time of the Xeltis biomaterial. In collaboration with XELTIS, research will be initiated to increase the fundamental mechanisms underlying Xeltis’ technology, thus enhancing Xeltis’ chances of improving life for many patients.

Detection of Systemic atherosclerosis by detection Ca2+-loaded monocytes: the DeSy study
University Utrecht/UMC Utrecht / FlowViewDiagnostics
Calcium loaded immune cells: traffic lights in atherosclerosis (AS). Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are big killers in the Western world. Apart from the genetic background our lifestyle including diet and smoking behaviour is an important risk factor for the development of AS, which is a main driver in CVD. AS is caused by plaque formation which leads to progressive deposition of calcium salts in the vessel wall. Therefore, AS should be diagnosed in time in order to allow early intervention. The problem of the diagnosis is the complexity of the procedures: echography and biopsies. These are expensive, labour intensive and provide information of only one or very limited number of tissue sites. An additional main disadvantage of these complex procedures is the fact that these cannot not be used for proper longitudinal analysis. This allows for diagnosis of current state of the disease but tells little about the rate of progression. Our project applies the concept that AS particularly at early stages is mediated by an inflammatory response in the vasculature where immune cells play an important role. These cells can enter the AS area, stay there and, importantly, can leave the diseased area carrying inside calcium salt crystals. This leads to the concept that the number of calcium positive cells and the extent of their calcification can be used as diagnostic when they are measured in blood by fully automated flowcytometry after staining for presence of these salts. Our project develops a flowcytometric method for longitudinal monitoring of systemic AS.

Microstructural engineering of porous electrodes for electrochemical production of ethylene
Eindhoven University / Shell Global Solutions International b.v.
To fully decarbonize our energy economy, there is a need to develop suistainable and pollution-free routes to manufacture key chemicals of industrial importance. Furthermore, pressing envinronmental concerns motivate the removal of carbon dioxide (i.e. negative emissions) from concentrated sources. Together, these pressing challenges motivate the development of technologies that can valorize carbon dioxide to produce chemicals with high economic value. Electrochemical conversions are particularly well suited because they can be performed with high selectivity and at low temperatures. In this research project, we will study the role of the porous electrodes on carbon dioxide electrolyzers to produce ethylene, a commodity in the chemical industry with high value. We will deploy a new methodology, non-solvent induced phase separation, to make highly controlled three-dimensional morphologies, and introduce electrocatalytic particles in the polymer casting formulation. If successful, we expect to improve reactor stability and performance to accelerate the scale-up of the technology.

SUCCES: SUpramolecular microCapsules for bioreactor Expansion of mesenchymal Stem Cells
Leiden University / Secoya Technologies
In this project, Leiden University and Secoya Technologies will collaborate to efficiently expand and differentiate Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Our dynamic and fully synthetic supramolecular biomaterials that show mechanical features on par with the biopolymer networks that compose the extracellular matrix will be used in combination with a microfluidic droplet generating platform for high throughput microcarrier production. Moreover, the supramolecular nature of these materials provides several practical advantages, such as shear-thinning behaviour, the possibility to mix and match monomers to tailor the materials towards a particular cell type, and their facile dissolution as they are composed of non-covalent interactions. Knowledge gained from squaramide-based materials in this format will lead to advances in cell culture under dynamic conditions and microfabrication strategies of supramolecular materials, with the potential to impact the fields of disease modeling, drug screening and regenerative medicine. Contribution to the state-of-the-art in these fields will lead to eventual societal impact in healthcare in understanding disease, its diagnosis and treatment.

STING-Coat: A coat to bring drugs into immune cells to make them attack tumors
Twente University / LipoCoat BV / Iamfluidics BV
Cancer immunotherapy strategies have shown striking activity against a variety of tumor types. Immuno-oncology regimens involve leveraging immune cells, primarily cytotoxic T cells, to recognize and destroy tumor cells. Current strategies have shown antitumor effects in the clinic. However, the majority
of patients fail to achieve long-term disease control, making the development of complementary approaches to improve treatment efficacy a priority in oncology research. Recently, interventions that act on the tumor microenvironment (TME) have gained increasing attention. STING genes emerged critical for dendritic cell maturation in the TME. In this project lipid biomaterials-based delivery strategies will be developed to deliver STING agonists and compared to induce proinflammatory gene expression and provide antitumor activity.

Cure a hereditary disease with a pill? How?
Utrecht University / FAIR Therapeutics
Since 2012, medicines have become available for the first time that treat an incurable, hereditary disease, Cystic Fibrosis (CF). create treatable disease. Instead of treating the symptoms, the defective CFTR protein is addressed. Even if it is evidence now provided that such a faulty protein could be a suitable target of treatment is the first generations of drugs not yet suitable for all CF patients. In addition, CF patients will have to use them for a lifetime. The industrial partner is therefore developing new substances that show synergy with each other and that represent new chemistry. Within the already existing collaboration of the participants, the working mechanism of these substances is being investigated the defective protein. The aim of the proposed project is to improve and deepen the methods and reagents needed to investigate the mechanism of action. Deep molecular insight into the mechanism of action of each substance will lead to a better understanding of the CFTR protein (which represents a large family of so-called ABC transporters, of which many are related to disease). This deeper understanding will also clarify which patients will benefit from these
medicines and whether there are side effects on the CFTR protein in addition to the main effect. This one is for hereditary diseases molecular approach and protein-targeted therapy actually preventive medicine: the pill makes the difference between a life with a serious, chronic illness, a lot of hospital time and early death and suddenly an almost normal, productive life, with a future, children and work.

Electro-Scattering Microscope for In-operando Battery Investigation (MIOBI)
Utrecht University / Solbion B.V.
Rapid development on battery technologies relies on investigation of materials for storage and conversion of electrical potential to electrochemically stored energy. Potentiodynamic optical scattering microscopy has recently presented a great potential for rapid and low-cost investigation of solid-electrolytes and interfaces, which are two major elements of every battery. In this project, we will adopt the high sophistication of optical microscopy tools developed for bio-imaging to this novel application of in-operando battery testing. The additional analysis power and ease of use for chemical investigations is necessary for wider adoption of this novel method by other battery researchers. By combining a non-contact system, the light-sheet microscope, with a fast acquisition strategy, we will be able to study changes on surface and electrode properties with spatial and temporal resolutions not currently available. The light-sheet approach applied to electro-chemistry opens the door to new multi-model analysis, including spectroscopy, and electro-optical modulation of signals.

SPIRIT – Surface Protein Immunocoupling using Ramp Imaging Technology
Universiteit Twente / InterFluidics B.V.
Technologies for personalized and cost-effective diagnostic of infectious diseases can greatly enhance our quality of life. Here, a crucial aspect is the rapid and accurate quantification of biomolecular interactions (for example between proteins, viruses), for which Surface Plasmon Resonance imaging (SPRi) is a promising diagnostic tool. SPRi is a label-free, photonic-based technique carried out on biofunctionalized surfaces, used for investigation of biomolecular interactions. It generates thousands of datapoints because every camera pixel corresponds to an individual SPR sensor, while each datapoint generates a sensorgram that could be potentially used for highthroughput diagnostics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers at UT and Interfluidics applied SPRi for realtime and label-free antibody screening of patients, measuring thousands of serum samples. It was found that a patient who will develop severe COVID-19 possesses high antibody concentrations in combination with overall worse quality of the antibodies (weak binding strength). However, such accurate measurements required a high level of expertise and time to extract and analyze the generated data, which hampers widespread use of this technology. To advance SPRi towards high-throughput and point-of-care applications, while decreasing analysis costs and facilitating its adoption in the clinics, novel functional materials and efficient analysis methods for SPRi are urgently needed. In SPIRIT, a new SPRi biosensing method will be developed towards dual measurement of concentration and binding strength of biomolecular interactions. We will i) develop protocols for smart coatings of SPRi substrates, ii) develop protocols for efficient data analysis, and iii) validate the method for diagnostics using a COVID-19 cohort. If successful, SPRi measurements will become “plugand- play”, paving the way for more accessible solutions for personalized diagnostics.

Capturing dynamics in protein digestion with chemical reaction networks (CRNs)-on-chip
Twente University / n.able GmbH / Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
This proposal aims to develop chemical reaction networks (CRNs)-on-chip to predict how robustness in digestive systems emerge. In vitro digestion studies are essential for determining the biological compatibility of compounds varying from drugs (in health) to nutrients (in food). But how molecular-level events determine robust behavior in critical functions that require a network of chemical reactions to work together in vivo is essentially not understood. The proposed work applies a systems-chemistry approach, centered around a microfluidically-driven network of enzymatic reactions (from the serine protease family), and examines how the introduction of fluctuations and heterogeneity could influence or enable robustness in digestion. It will be carried out at the University of Twente (UT) in collaboration with n.able GmbH and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The combined expertise of the three partners—design of chemical reaction networks (UT), development of molecular inks (n.able), scanning probe lithography for functionalization of microfluidics (KIT)—will provide the foundation for establishing novel Lab-on-Chip technologies. If successful, this project will develop novel CRN-on-chip devices for understanding fundamental concepts in the chemistry of critical biological functions, important for finding solutions for healthcare in the field of diagnostics of infectious diseases.

Funchal
TU Eindhoven / Nobian Industrial Chemicals bv
In the Funchal project, TU/e ​​and Nobian will jointly conduct research into the electrolysis of lithium chloride. This process makes it possible to extract lithium from lithium chloride, producing only chlorine and hydrogen as products in addition to the desired lithium hydroxide, making this process more environmentally friendly than existing production processes. In addition, lithium chloride is available in Europe and this process makes it possible to become less dependent on distant countries for the critical raw material lithium. It also makes it easier to recycle used lithium. However, to successfully perform lithium chloride electrolysis, some technical challenges still need to be overcome. To achieve this, TU/e ​​is conducting research into the fundamentals of lithium chloride electrolysis in the Funchal project, which are then used by Nobian in the design of large-scale lithium chloride electrolysis.

Interphase interaction of EoL composites and acrylic resins
Windesheim / Circular Recycling Company
Composites are difficult to recycle because they are made from thermoset resins that do not melt. This has obstructed the circularity of modern wind mills because all rotor blades are made of thermoset composite. The Professorship for Polymer Engineering of Windesheim has developed a method of re-use for these materials using EoL thermoset product into flakes that can be used as reinforcing material for new composite products. The flakes are embedded in the new product by a virgin resin. Because the interaction between the flakes and this resin depends on the origin of the EoL material, there is variation in performance of the new product. The present project aims to use acrylic resins to circumvent this because acrylic resins are known for good interphase interaction with other materials. The project starts with fundamental studies focusing on the interaction of flakes from EoL composites of various origin with acrylic resin. Besides micro-mechanical tests also FEA model simulations are made. A next step in the project is to determine product performance on a macroscopic level that can be used for design analysis. Material characterization will be done by mechanical tests on samples made from EoL composite flakes embedded in acrylic resin. Static strength, creep deformation and fatigue performance are determined both on dry (as moulded) samples and after moisture absorption (conditioned). These results can be used within the industry for further development of products made with re-used EoL composites.

Fundamental understanding of Mechanochemical Plastic Waste Conversion
Universiteit Utrecht / Carboliq GmbH
Mechanical recycling of plastics through washing, shredding and reshaping is currently the dominant end-of-life treatment technology for these materials, besides incineration and landfilling. However, imperfect sorting and degradation occurring during mechanical recycling lead to a lower product quality. Chemical recycling is a promising alternative to produce monomers for making high value plastics again, as it overcomes the gaps in the current ways of waste treatment and prevents quality degradation. However, especially polypropylene and polyethylene, making up about 50% of global polymer production, require heating above 400 °C for recycling, resulting in a high variety of different molecules, not only monomers. Therefore, there is a need for better recycling technologies that can produce monomers or other useful chemicals directly and more efficiently. Mechanochemistry, using force to drive chemical reactions instead of or in combination with heat, can be used as a tool for controlling the product scope for example by lowering the process temperature, especially in combination with catalysts. The unique process developed by Carboliq GmbH already demonstrates that no additional heat is required to drive plastic waste conversion by friction, and recent results from Dr. Ina Vollmer (Utrecht University) have demonstrated conversions below 60 °C, which would provide much more control over the product. In this project we want to build a strong fundamental basis to understand mechanochemical plastic conversion over a wide range of conditions and in combination with catalysts, which will provide handles to tune the product scope, develop the process and spark new research in this field.

SeaO2 – CO2 extraction from sea water
DIFFER / Toyota Motor Europe
The urgent need to reduce and minimize anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has led to extensive research focused on development of technologies that can be used for carbon capture and storage (CCS). CCS from concentrated sources has received a great deal of attention; for example, from power plants that burn fossil fuel and cement plants. On the other hand, capture of dispersed CO2 from the atmosphere or seawater is another viable option that likely will play an increasingly important role in achieving net-zero emissions. Compared to direct capture of CO2 from the atmosphere, direct removal of CO2 from seawater is a promising method of capturing dispersed CO2 because (i) the concentration of CO2 in the oceans is 140 times higher than the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere and (ii) the ocean provides much of the capacity for natural carbon sequestration. We have, together with Toyota Motor Europe, recently demonstrated a negative emission process, based on anion and proton exchange membranes, where CO2 capture and separation is solely solar driven via photoelectrochemical reactions. The proof of concept has been already validated in the lab for CO2 extraction from seawater with model-type materials which resulted to low productivity. In the frame of the proposed project, we will evaluate the challenges and the mechanisms that govern the processes in order to improve performance in terms of CO2 capacity, selectivity and productivity (via material development and tuning the operating conditions).

‘HOPy – Headstart on Pyrolysis scale-up’
University of Twente / Versnellingshuis CE / ISPT
HOPy will be the bridge between the previous Circular Plastics Initiative (CPI) project ‘Circular Polyolefins’ and ‘InReP’ and the National Growthfund programme Circulaire Plastics NL. This bridging project enables a kickstart in the further scale up for pyrolysis technology. Two focal points of this project are (1) the manufacturing of pyrolysis oil that can be used for characterization and further testing in downstream application (cracking) within the NGF CP programme. The second focal point is to gain insight in the economic costs of producing pyrolysis oil that is fit for cracking. This will be done by developing an economic decision model, which can calculate the costs based on different choices that can be made to prepare pyrolysis oil towards naphtha standards. This project will result in sufficient pyrolysis oil that is fit for further testing in downstream applications (cracking) in the NGF CP programme on industrialization of recycling technologies, and in economic insight which will provide new directions for future research and testing within the programme.

Multiflex
Maastricht University / Nationaal Testcentrum Circulaire Plastics (NTCP) / Steinert GmbH / PespiCo / Stichting CEFLEX
The focus of this project is on flexible plastics from household waste, which is dominated by polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) based packaging. High-quality recycling is challenging due to the presence of non-polyolefins (NPO) like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyamide (PA). NPOs are often incorporated in a multilayer construction, with additional layer like barrier or tie materials. All of these significantly affect the quality of the recycled PP (rPP) and PE (rPE). There is broad consensus that multilayers should be removed for quality improvement, but no real insight in optimized sensor technologies to do this, the exact level to which they should be removed (tolerance levels), nor a techno-economic assessment that balances the quality gains versus the additional cost. Therefore, Multiflex will assess sensor-based sorting to remove NPO-containing multilayers and link this to recycling quality. In this project, we will cooperate with PepsiCo that strives for use of recycled PP film in packaging, and with Steinert that focuses on new developments on material-based plastic sorting. Furthermore, we will cooperate with the CEFLEX consortium that strives for high quality recycling of plastic film.

AquaSurf: Plastic waste stream characterisation methods for moisture & surface contamination’
Nationaal Testcentrum Circulaire Plastics (NTCP) / PreZero Nederland Holding B.V. / Metrohm Applikon
Along the recycling chain from waste collection to ‘clean’ flakes (as input for reactor or extruder) limited quality data is present. Different disturbing materials (contaminants) can be present in different streams: moisture (easily 15 – 30 %), surface contamination (5 – 25 %), non-intended objects, labels, sleeves, adhesives, inks, etc. and miss-sorted objects. Especially moisture and surface contaminate pose a threat to process efficiency. Fast and easy methods to determine these quantities are lacking for the different streams in the plastic recycling process. The goal of the project is to develop these quality methods for the plastic waste sorting process.

100% recyclable PET trays
DPI / Dufor
PET trays are ideal for packing and transporting perishable foodstuffs because of their low weight and gas and moisture-tightness. This makes them very popular for this application. Unfortunately, PET trays are difficult to recycle as they consist, next to PET, out of non-PET seals and lidding films.
In this project, a consortium of parties ranging from the supply chain of PET trays, has decided to join forces with knowledge institutions to jointly arrive at a fully circular PET tray solution, aiming at a 100% PET-tray for perishable foodstuffs. This project will be important to support the growing demand of PET-trays towards a sustainable and circular situation.

Zeolite catalysts highlighted with Raman spectroscopy
Utrecht University / BASF
Catalysts for methanol-to-hydrocarbons (MTH) process are important for making propylene, a.o. one of the important building blocks in the chemical industry. Due to the increasing economic importance of propene, the MTH process is being researched a lot. The necessary catalyst is a zeolite system, the mechanism of action of which is still unclear. This lack of insight is partly caused by carbon deposits, which block both the pores and the active site. For the further development of this process and to make better/more efficient catalysts, it is necessary to expand our understanding of the dynamics of the catalyst. The aim of this research project is to apply a new form of Raman spectroscopy to take a closer look at the MTH process with zeolite materials. The Raman spectroscopy makes it possible to properly distinguish the Raman signal from the fluorescence signal by measuring very quickly. In this project, operando time-gated Raman spectroscopy is used to analyze the carbon deposits during the MTH process over zeolite ZSM-5 materials as a function of reaction temperature and time, as well as catalyst composition. In addition, we will try to obtain the temperature on the catalyst directly from the ratio of the Stokes and anti-Stokes signals and to link it to exothermic processes such as catalyst regeneration in which carbon deposits are burned off.

Influence of promotion and reaction conditions on the selectivity of Cu based catalysts in CO₂ conversion
Utrecht University / TotalEnergies (BE)
It is crucial to develop ways to convert carbon dioxide in a sustainable way (by linking it to green hydrogen) into fuels and building materials for the chemical industry and thereby become less dependent on fossil energy sources and limit carbon dioxide emissions. Copper is a versatile catalyst for the conversion of carbon dioxide, but the addition of an extra ingredient (“promoter”) determines which molecules are made. Researchers from Utrecht University, in collaboration with TOTAL, will investigate which additions to copper catalysts lead to which products from carbon dioxide and green hydrogen.

Catalytic behaviour of post transition metals in the electroreduction of CO2 to formate
Utrecht University / Avantium Chemicals B.V.
The extensive consumption of fossil fuels has caused an increase in CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Carbon capture and storage strategies are a transitory solution towards carbon capture and utilisation. An appealing method to achieve this goal is the electro reduction of CO2 into e.g., carbon monoxide, formate and C2+ hydrocarbon products. Formate is of great industrial relevance for its economical market and as feedstock in various chemical processes. Furthermore, its reaction mechanism is less challenging than that for C2+ products. Industrial implementation of electrocatalytic formate production requires maintenance of high formate yields for long operating periods. The In-Bi catalyst for formate production patented by Avantium, shows great performance of selectivity and stability at high conversion before deactivation occurs. Insights into the In-Bi alloy structure and composition are necessary to reveal activation/deactivation. 2 research questions: ‘What is the active phase of the catalyst?’ and ‘What is the activation and deactivation mechanism of the In-Bi-based catalyst?’. These questions lead to a broader study evaluating the catalytic behaviour of post-transition metals and their alloys, as well as alloying-dealloying-migration-sintering phenomena of the electrocatalyst material under operating conditions at high current density. This research also covers further studies on the catalyst binder in the GDE configuration. A multitechnique approach will be implemented, including vibrational and X-ray spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and surface science methods.

PolyOlefins Recycling to Aromatics (PORA)
Groningen University/BioBTX
Household waste is usually separated into different categories, including plastics, paper, glass, organic and the rest, due to the varied material properties which require tailored recycling technologies. Plastics recycling is arguably the most challenging, because plastics are made up of a wide range of polymers. For instance, single-use plastics, commonly used for food packaging, light weight plastic bags, drink containers etc, are made up of polyolefins. The current state-of-art technology for chemical recycling of polyolefins is pyrolysis, in which the raw material is fed into a reactor operating at elevated temperatures (450 – 650 °C). In this project, University of Groningen and bioBTX are partnering to develop a potentially more energy-saving and cost-effective process known as hydrogenolysis. In a hydrogenolysis process, C-C bonds were broken and C-H bonds were formed on the same catalytic sites. Importantly, hydrogenolysis takes place at milder temperatures (200 – 300 °C) which makes it potentially more attractive than pyrolysis. Hydrogenolysis of polyolefins produce liquid hydrocarbons, which could then be upgraded to aromatics, in particular benzene, toluene and xylenes (BTX). BTX are building blocks for high performance materials, e.g. aramid fibers used in aerospace and military applications. Ultimately, the new hydrogenolysis process to convert polyolefins to aromatics will be evaluated against bio-BTX propriety Integrated Cascading Catalytic Pyrolysis (ICCP) technology.

Ultrasonically Aided Extrusion
Windesheim/Profextru/CF Kunststofprofielen/Timaflex/NRK Federatie/Aeson BV
Plastic profiles are widely used in industry and construction, for example plastic frames. These profiles are usually produced with virgin (not recycled) plastics. But for the sake of sustainability and a circular industry, it would be better if profiles were made from recycled plastic. Plastic extrusion (i.e. production) companies, including the partners Profextru, CF Kunststof Profielen, Timaflex and the members of the NRK, currently have difficulty making dimensionally stable profiles when working with recycled plastics. Virgin plastics often have very constant material properties, but with recycled plastics the material properties are variable. As a result, the production costs of recycled plastic profiles are significantly higher. The Plastics Technology Research Group has demonstrated in collaboration with Aeson that the extrusion process can be adjusted quickly (1 bar/s [1]) with an ultrasonic actuator in the extrusion die. This technique has the potential to facilitate recycled plastic extrusion and mold development. The research group wants to further develop this technique, from TRL level 4 to TRL level 6.

Lanthanide-doped semiconductor nanostructures for spectral conversion
Universiteit Utrecht/Seaborough Research BV
Various types of luminescent materials are currently used for the efficient generation and conversion of light in white LED lamps, screens and solar cells, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Lanthanide ions efficiently emit light in sharp lines at any desired color. You can find them in fluorescent tubes, energy-saving lamps, LED lamps and screens. Unfortunately, the absorption of light by lanthanides is characterized by weak and sharp absorption lines that make light conversion difficult. A sensitizer with a broad and strong absorption that then transfers the energy to the lanthanide ion is the solution for this. For several years, perovskite semiconductor nanocrystals have been investigated for light conversion. These are efficient but stability is an issue as are the relatively wide emission bands. In this project, the good properties of lanthanide ions (stable and efficient sharp line emission) and perovskites (strong and size-tunable absorption) are combined in a new nanoparticle. These new nanoparticles provide unparalleled flexibility in light conversion and can be used in white LED lamps, displays, solar cells and medical imaging. The development and characterization of the new class of nanomaterials is done at Utrecht University and the testing of the materials for applications takes place at Seaborough Research, an innovative scale-up for LED lighting.

Development and Demonstration of Thermochromic Polyolefin Elastomer Interlayers for Smart Safety Glazing (SunSmart POE)
TNO/The Compound Company 
In this project we focus on the integration of thermochromic VO2-containing nanopigments in polyolefin elastomer (POE) films, which are used for the lamination of glass sheets for the production of safety glass. The laminated glass with thermochromic functionality, which has high transparency to visible light and can switch based on temperature between transmitting and blocking infrared radiation from the sun, can then be used to reduce energy consumption for cooling and heating buildings and cars. reduce. The thermochromic circuit is based on a structural phase transition from monoclinic to rutile VO2 and vice versa, and the associated metal-insulator transition. Monoclinic VO2 as an insulator is infrared light transmissive, and metallic rutile VO2 reflects and absorbs infrared light. This optimized heat regulation in buildings and cars, which is achieved by the thermochromic material, will drastically reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. In this project, we want to demonstrate that thermochromic functionality can be added to POE films via VO2 pigments, and that the resulting laminated glass sheets can be applied in thermochromic architectural glass. In addition, we want to demonstrate by means of energy simulation studies that these innovative, smart windows significantly reduce the energy demand of buildings.

Targeting Glioblastoma via tumour associated macrophages
LEI / Liposoma BV
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) remains one of the most aggressive cancers to date, with prognosis not exceeding 5 years. It is therefore imperative to acquire further knowledge on mechanisms that fuel and sustain GBM growth and to develop more precise therapeutic technologies that can target GBM malignancy leaving the healthy tissue unaffected. Macrophages are the most abundant immune cells in GBM tumor microenvironment (TME) and can be detrimental to therapeutic response, as they can have immunosuppressive phenotypes and pro-tumorigenic functions. Herein, we describe unique liposomes and RNA-loaded LNPs that selectively target tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) in in vitro TAM/GBM coculture systems. In GBM mouse models, liposomes can cross the blood brain barrier and target TAMs with high selectivity. Targeting TAMs to rewire them so as to have inflammatory and pro-tumorigenic functions is an enticing therapeutic strategy that could lead to effective combination treatments. Additionally, these novel liposomes and LNPs offer the unique opportunity to target TAMs associated to GBM in vivo and form the basis of the novel concept of cell-specific active targeting. Nanoparticle-encapsulated drugs targeting TAMs could overcome toxicity and the challenges of selective targeting, leading the way to more effective treatments for the most aggressive form of cancer, Glioblastoma Multiforme.

Handsfree Biotechnologie: Biopharmaceutical process development for continuous manufacturing
TUD / Janssen Biologics BV
The transition to higher yielding automated and continuous biotechnological processes is one of the solutions to serve the increasing demand for affordable biopharmaceutical products, such as vaccines and cancer drugs. An automated production method therefore no longer makes use of manual actions, such as intermediate manual measurements to determine whether everything is going according to plan, and will therefore run “hands-free”. This collaborative project between the academy and industry focuses on realizing such biotechnological processes. This is done using computer simulations to simulate processes and advanced measurement equipment in combination with mathematical models to monitor and validate the effects being simulated in the laboratory. This method provides insights that lay the foundation for automated and continuous small-scale biopharmaceutical production processes, so that they can be tested for future applications on an industrial scale.

Bringing immune and physiological health monitoring to primary care: the BrIMo study
TI-COAST / SkinTwin BV
There is a  silent pandemic of chronic inflammatory diseases  in our Western Society. These diseases such as COPD, allergies, auto-immune diseases (e.g. psoriasis) have a major impact on  health care costs, quality-of-life (QoL), economic burden (loss of working days). Despite the consensus that these diseases are of major concerns particularly in our ageing population the current approach of these disease has many characteristics  of trying to empty the ocean with a thimble. This is caused by the fact that the majority of cases is diagnosed too late when the disease has switched to persistence that is relatively refractory to therapy. Nowadays, new biologicals are being developed  to treat the chronic persistent phase of these diseases. However, these biologicals are very expensive, are not curative (life-long therapy is required), have putative severe side-effects, and are a economic burden.  It is more logical to intervene earlier in the pathogenesis when the disease is still at least in part reversible. Unfortunately, these patients are under the radar of our health care system as they are not seen by specialists. General practitioners see these patients, but do not have adequate diagnostics at place. Sending these patients to the outclinic is not realistic as it will ‘swamp’ the health care system and is patient unfriendly. Therefore, the vision of BRiMo is to bring the diagnostic work-up outside the hospital to primary care in the form of diagnostic equipment in a bus to aid early diagnosis of patients at risk for development of persistent disease.

Catalysts for the sUnlight driven catalytic conversion of CO2 To CO and mEthanol (CUTE)
TNO / Sibelco
The CUTE project addresses the use of CO2 and renewable hydrogen (green H2) as a green feedstock, that under solar light irradiation, and in presence of a plasmonic catalyst, can produce CO as a starting material for methanol synthesis or methanol directly as synthetic fuel (green fuels). We aim to develop several plasmonic photo-catalysts that selectively reduce CO2 to CO or methanol. Within the project we will explore whether we can use materials of natural origin supplied by Sibelco as a carrier material for photocatalysts developed by TNO. These plasmonic photocatalysts consist of a carrier material and plasmonic (nano) metal particles, which are used in the photochemical conversion of CO2 to CO or methanol. The outcome of the project will be a library of catalysts (consisting of combinations of different natural minerals as carrier materials in combination with metallic nanoparticles) that can be used for the selective conversion of CO2 to CO or methanol using sunlight as an energy source.

New Insights in the Electroreduction of CO2 to Formate over In/Bi-based Catalysts through In-situ and Operando Spectroscopy and Microscopy: Role of Promotor Element and Binder Material
Utrecht University / Avantium Chemicals BV
In order to combat climate change our society is moving away from fossil resources and increasingly producing and using renewable resources, including green electrons from e.g., solar panels and wind turbines. These green electrons can be used to produce via electrochemical routes fuels (e.g., hydrogen) and chemicals (e.g., ethylene). This research project focuses on the production of another important building block, namely formate, which can be the starting point for the manufacturing of a variety of chemicals and materials. However, this is only possible when the overall formate yields are sufficiently high and when high conversion levels can be maintained for long operational periods. This should become possible when we are capabable to better understand both the reaction and deactivation processes for suitable catalyst materials and having proper means to alter their structure and composition. The project goal is to use a range of powerful and sensitive analytical methods, including vibrational spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy and tomography, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, as well as surface science methods.

Understanding new candidate drugs for treatment of ABC transporter-mediated diseases
Utrecht University / Rectify Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Mutations in the protein family of ABC-transporters cause a range of diseases. Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the best known one, but also Stargardt disease (STGD1), adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD1), Sitosterolemia (STSL2), PFIC2, and others. These are monogenic inherited diseases, caused by mutations in the ABC-transporter gene. This leads to a defective or absent ABC-transporter protein, and the lives of most Cystic-Fibrosis patients has improved tremendously since they have access to a pill that corrects and enhances their defective ABCtransporter protein. A pill with a typical medicine is much easier to develop than the alternative, gene therapy. The industrial partner is developing a pill that targets a defective ABC-transporter. Whereas medicines can be approved for the patient without understanding how the medicine works, it helps development of therapy for all ABC transporters when the protein and effect of the pill are understood. The aim of this project is to establish a toolset for the first ABC-transporter for which a pill is being developed, and to start characterizing the ABC-transporter protein and the mode of action of the first candidate medicines.

Extending boundaries: Single-particle mass analysis of von Willebrand Factor oligomers by mass photometry and charge detection mass spectrometry
Utrecht University / MS Vision
Our blood contains a wide variety of circulating proteins, mostly quite small. However, one protein in blood is the “von Willebrand Factor” that is present as a dimeric protein of about 0.5 million Da, but also forms readily higher order aggregates ranging in mass to about 20 million Da. In this project we aim to pass the current boundaries in single-particle mass analysis by mass photometry and charge detection mass spectrometry targeting the analysis of the VWF oligomers. If this can be achieved, we aim to subsequently develop new diagnostic tools to monitor (the self-aggregation of) this important blood biomarker.

HotElectric
PTG/e BV / Shell Global Solutions BV
High-temperature heat is key for industrial process and climate change mandates to derive this from emission-free sources such as renewable power from wind and solar PV. The conversion of renewable power to high-temperature heat can be achieved by Joule heating using wide-bandgap semiconductors such as Silicon Carbide. In this project, PTGe in partnership with Shell will study the heat conversion and conductivity as well as the surface modification of SiC synthesized from natural sources that contain unquantified levels of hetero-atoms.

Recycled polypropylene based buckets for food application (“rPP buckets for food”)
Brightlands Materials Center / TNO / Dijkstra Plastics / CHILL / SABIC / Milgro /  Quality Circular Polymers
This project relates to the increasing demand for using recycled content in packaging products and more specifically in buckets used for food applications (e.g. sauces and salads). A working closed loop demonstrator will be established, where post-consumer recycled polypropylene is being used as raw material for the production of new buckets for food contact applications. Within this project knowledge will be generated on the following topics: 1) quality development of recycled material including the microplastic formation during multiple closed loops of production and recycling, use and mechanical recycling of buckets used for food applications. 2) influence of organic food remains on the recyclate properties 3) cleaning process to remove organic food remains 4) possibilities to reach the required recyclate quality (both regarding mechanical properties as well as food safety), additivation and/or decontamination technologies and mitigation of microplastics formation upon recycling 5) EFSA authorization process and hurdles to overcome for obtaining food safety approval. In order to fulfil the requirements for food safety, the used polypropylene buckets and related materials within this project will be kept in a closed loop. As it is generally accepted that upon mechanical recycling the quality of the materials will deteriorate, upgrading and readjustment of the recyclate properties will be investigated. The information achieved regarding the decrease of the recyclate quality during the subsequent recycling cycles will serve as input for the development of a life cycle recyclate quality assessment model.

Modelling and experimental validation of HTW bubbling fluidized bed gasification
TU Delft / G.I Dynamics
Aim of the gasification process is to generate a syngas which, after cleanup and upgrading, will be suitable for fossil-free methanol production. The goal of this project is to arrive at a simple transient one-dimensional model for the gasifier at GIDARA Energy, with the ability to predict the residence time distribution of gas/solids, the (axial) temperature distribution, and the chemical conversion and selectivity to various products. Focus lies on a research-scale bubbling fluidized bed gasifier operating with solid waste feedstock, e.g. sewage, wood, household and industrial types of solid waste. To arrive at such a model, the output of more detailed Computational Fluid Dynamics models (without reactions) will be analysed and reduced to simpler equations, after which chemical reactions will be added. Cold flow experiments using a downscaled version of the gasifier will be performed at TU Delft for model validation. Validation gasification measurements at the gasifier will be performed, targeting closure of mass- and energy balances and to obtain more insight in the conversion process of the challenging circular carbon feedstock for further scale-up. These include measurement of main gaseous and solid carbon species, but also online alkali species measurement and carbon-in-ash measurements.

Plasma assisted capture and conversion of CO2 to useful chemical products (PLACHEM)
Eindhoven University / CASALE SA
The PLACHEM project aims at developing and demonstrating a novel, direct, integrated air capture and conversion process for the conversion of atmospheric CO2 into high value chemicals in one step without sorbent regeneration. The proposed activities in this project include i) development of high capacity sorbent and 3D structure material tailored for plasma environment; ii) investigation of plasma-induced one step desorption and conversion of CO2 by testing the plasma-sorbent system; iii) modelling and system design for the developed process to be tested in the intended environment as well as strategic plans for further scale-up or implementation; iv) evaluation of the process and further exploitation for business case development and commercialization. The project will be carried out by 2 PhD students working at Eindhoven University of Technology, Chemical Engineering and Chemistry department, with support by CASALE.

Iron fuel: a clean and circular energy carrier (MEC II)
Eindhoven University / Shell Global Solutions Int. BV
The goal of the MEC-II project is to use metal powder as a dense energy carrier for a demonstrably circular and renewable zero-carbon energy storage and conversion system. The TU/e carries out the fundamental and industrial research necessary to boost the required technological developments for the utilization of metal powder, supported by the industrial partner Shell. The breakthrough of the metal energy carriers concept provides a circular, storable, zero-emission, highly efficient, and low-cost pathway to employ widely available metals like iron for heat and power generation. The key element of the MEC-II project is a more rapid progression to TRL level 5-6. To achieve this the reduction chain of the overall process needs to improve. As a result, the TU/e places itself in a good position for further participation in the growing demand for iron ore reduction using renewable methods (i.e. hydrogen). We are acquiring direct reduced iron (DRI) expertise and expect to leverage the acquired skills, experimental assets, and knowledge in further contacts with Tata Steel, Arcelor Mittal etc. This effort is not confined to solving the storage requirement for intermittency in renewables and retrofittable novel zero carbon fuels. It will also enable us as the TU/e to contribute and compete in other heat intensive industrial areas on the cusp of integrating renewables i.e. the steel industry.

No longer ‘too hot to handle’: microscopy of heat-loving microorganisms
Leiden University / Confocal.nl
In this project Leiden University and microscopy company Confocal.nl collaborate to visualize and study archaeal organisms at high temperatures at high spatial and temporal resolution. This permits fundamental studies of the cell biology of such organisms under physiological conditions, aiding in establishing them as model organisms and industrial production vehicles. Furthermore, the established approach extends to application of super-resolution rescan confocal microscopy to other biological and non-biological systems (e.g. in materials science) that require high temperatures.

Densification of polyelectrolyte multilayer membranes for high NaCl retentions
Twente University / NX Filtration B.V.
With the increasing world-wide water scarcity, it becomes increasingly important to obtain clean water from alternative sources, including brackish water. To do that in an efficient process, we propose to develop a new generation of hollow fiber based membranes based on ultrathin coatings of charged polymers. These advanced coatings can be build up in a layer-by-layer fashion, allowing a great deal of control over their material properties and therefore their eventual separation performance. By increasing the density of these coatings, we will improve the retention of ions, such as Na+ and Cl-, allowing their effective removal to produce clean desalinated water. To achieve this, researchers from the university of Twente will closely collaborate with membrane company NX Filtration.

Electrochemical valorization of biobased chemical building blocks
Utrecht University / TNO / Relement
Utrecht University, Relement and TNO will conduct fundamental research into new, clean ways to convert chemical building blocks obtained from biomass into a palette of valuables connections. Through a combination of biorefinery and further chemical conversions, the sugar fraction can be green building blocks for the chemical industry are made from non-edible biomass, compounds that can be used in plastics, coatings and other applications. One of the last synthesis steps suffices not yet meet the requirements of green and sustainable chemistry. We are looking for an alternative to this step. This alternative technology can then in principle be applied to a whole range of building blocks.

Pre-study flake cleanliness in plastic recycling
Nationaal Testcentrum Circulaire Plastics (NTCP) / Danone Nutricia Research
One of the major challenges in mechanical plastic recycling is to achieve a sufficiently high quality flake material that serves as feedstock to an extruder line to produce pellets that can be used by convertors. An area where this is of utmost importance is plastic packaging for food products, not only for product quality but also for food safety. Danone (one of the leading European food companies) and NTCP (the unique test and research centre around circular plastics) team up to take the measurement of flake quality a step further to eventually enable dedicated washing processes for specific plastics. The project will focus on selecting and developing easily accessible methods to determine the quality and especially cleanliness of plastic flakes. If these methods are easily accessible, one can adjust process parameters to reach the required output quality.

The CO2WA program: the development of new technology for water electrolysis and the capture, compression and conversion of CO2
Delft University / HyET Electrolysis B.V. / HyET NoCarbon B.V.
For the upcoming energy transition, water electrolysis and the capture and conversion of CO2 are essential technologies to produce fossil-free feedstock and fuels. These technologies need to be developed with the utmost reduction in cost at the maximum efficiency and durability possible. This program will explore this goal from various angles in the following exploratory workpackages in close collaboration with HYET. WP1. We develop an electrochemical approach to capture CO2 from air using pH swings. In addition, we will explore the electrochemical compression of the captured CO2. WP2. We develop a low temperature electrochemical CO2 conversion system for the production of CO at a rate of 0.5 kg/day. WP3. We develop novel anionic exchange membranes for water electrolysis with improved chemical stability, ionic conductivity and handling properties. WP4. We will investigate non-trivial ways to improve the water electrolysis process in zero-gap anion exchange configurations using magnetic fields and pulsed potentials.

Nature helps out: Bio-based Additives for Supporting Plastic Recycling in a Modern Circular Economy (Bio-SuPReME)
Groningen University / NHL Stenden / Croda Nederland BV
University of Groningen, NHL Stenden and Croda were already instrumental in initiating many research projects in the field of sustainable polymers and circular plastics. In this project they join forces to study the effects of novel biobased slip additives on the processing and recycling of PET. This will be achieved by simulating each step of the post-consumer closed loop mechanical recycling process. Although plastics have superior properties in many applications, often additives are used to improve these properties. In addition, additives are deployed to optimize process conditions during the production of plastic products. However, with regard to environmental issues, like the plastic soup, micro plastics and other plastic contaminations, not much attention is paid to the impact of additives on the environment. In most cases, additives used in plastic products are more polluting than the plastic itself, which often contains only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen building blocks. Additives, like plasticizers, UV-stabilizers and flame retardants are examples of non-environmental-friendly chemicals. However, some additives result in environmental advantages as they can facilitate recycling of the used plastics and with this promote a future circular economy.

Performance Polymers and Polyolefins DPI 2.0 Call for Research Proposals 2021
Dutch Polymer Institute (DPI)

TEAMs – Thermo-electrical ageing mechanisms in polymer-ceramic nanocomposites for energy storage applications
University of Lincoln, DSM, Shell, Teijin, Sabic, Aramco, SKF, Kingfa, Hutchinson

TRAIL Monitoring lifetime of thermoplastic composites by combining analytics and machine learning
NTNU Norwegian Unvi of Science and Techn DSM, Shell, Teijin, Sabic, Aramco, SKF, Hutchinson

MADPY Multi-scale Analysis and Design of the Pyrolysis of Polyolefins
Ghent Univ Borealis, Braskem

QLife Quantum-Chemical Life-Time Optimization of Sustainable Engineering Polymers
VU Amsterdam SKF, DSM, Sabic, Aramco, SKF

ODIN OptimiseD matrix and fIbre treatmeNt for high performance thermoplastic composites recycling
Utwente DSM, Shell, Teijin, Sabic, Aramco, SKF

Preventing pollution by pesticides

UvA/GreenA B.V.

Pesticides are sprayed onto crops in the form of drops; how do we prevent these from polluting surrounding areas and the surface waters? A promising method is to add an environmentally friendly substance (a ‘tank-mix additive’) that influences the droplet size of the spraying agent, as well as improving coverage of the plants by the spray. The research proposed here is a collaboration between the University of Amsterdam (Daniel Bonn, Institute of Physics) with the industrial partner GreenA (Maarten Klein, CEO) that successfully markets such an additive for tractor and backpack spraying. The project aims to use the existing know-how and recent breakthroughs in understanding spray physics to develop a similar additive for aerial spraying, which is still one of the main ways pesticides are sprayed.

Benign and Circular by Design – Sustainable Organophosphates
Uva-HIMS and Susphos

Phosphorus is essential for life on Earth and plays a prominent role in modern science and technology, where organophosphorus compounds are of immense importance for their wide-ranging applications in material science, nanotechnology and life sciences. At present, however, the overall industrial processes to produce these phosphorus compounds are unsustainable, energy intensive, and inefficient. Additionally, many organophosphorus chemicals are found in the environment, contributing to ever-growing chemical pollution. In this project, we will develop a computer-aided framework for the design of benign chemicals, making use of state-of-the-art predictive models and innovative experimental assessment techniques for environmentally relevant properties. Simultaneously, we will advance the eco-friendly production of benign organophosphates using waste phosphates as renewable feedstock, which will prevent their constant spillage in the environment. We will implement these innovations into a broader context and develop scalable protocols, which are needed to realize safe and sustainable phosphorus chemistry on a large scale, introducing systematic and targeted molecular design, as well as recycling, clean, and ‘cradle-to-cradle’ technologies as ground-breaking changes in the field to ensure the continued beneficial use of phosphorus, in particular as sustainable flame-retardant additives for textiles.