SciTransfer
Bio-LUSH · Project

Turning Underused Plant Waste into High-Performance Bio-Plastics and Sustainable Textiles

manufacturingTestedTRL 5

Imagine taking things like seagrass or hemp waste and shredding them down to a microscopic level to create a super-strong 'bio-glue'. This material can then be used to make everything from edible food wraps to car parts. It's like upgrading nature's leftovers into high-tech materials without using chemicals or competing with food crops.

By the numbers
12
consortium partners
7
industry partners
8
participating countries
5
target TRL for processing and manufacturing
The business problem

What needed solving

Industries struggle to find high-quality, sustainable alternatives to plastics and synthetic fibers that don't compete with food production. Current bio-based options are often expensive or lack the necessary mechanical properties for industrial use.

The solution

What was built

A system for extracting nanocellulose from underused biomass and a dataset using machine learning to design materials based on fiber properties.

Audience

Who needs this

Sustainable packaging manufacturersAutomotive interior suppliersTechnical textile producersBio-composite 3D printing firms
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Automotive
enterprise
Target: Car interior manufacturer

If you are a car interior manufacturer dealing with the need for lighter, impact-resistant parts — this project developed 3D printable bio-nanocomposite filaments that provide a sustainable alternative for interior components.

Packaging
SME
Target: Eco-friendly packaging producer

If you are a packaging producer dealing with plastic waste regulations — this project developed edible packaging made from under-utilized biomass that reduces environmental impact.

Textiles
mid-size
Target: Technical apparel brand

If you are a textile company dealing with the demand for functional, non-synthetic fabrics — this project developed antibacterial textiles derived from sustainable fibers like nettle and hemp.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the estimated cost of implementing these processes?

Based on available project data, specific cost figures are not provided, but the project includes a dedicated business plan to ensure solutions are economically viable.

Can this be produced at an industrial scale?

The project aims for industrial viability by involving 7 industry partners and targeting TRL5 for both biomass processing and manufacturing.

How is the intellectual property or licensing handled?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not mentioned, but the consortium includes 3 SMEs and 4 large enterprises to ensure a route to market.

What regulations or standards does this follow?

The project is establishing a standardization roadmap and a nanocellulose quality index to ensure effective benchmarking of the fibers.

When will the technology be ready for full market deployment?

The project period runs from 2023-05-01 to 2027-04-30, with current goals focused on reaching TRL5.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily weighted toward commercial application, with a 58% industry ratio (7 partners, including 3 SMEs and 4 large enterprises). This strong industrial presence, combined with 2 universities and 3 research centers across 8 countries, suggests a high likelihood of successful technology transfer and market integration.

How to reach the team

Contact Stockholm University regarding the Bio-LUSH project coordination.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the Bio-LUSH industry partners for pilot opportunities.

More in Manufacturing & Industry 4.0
See all Manufacturing & Industry 4.0 projects