SciTransfer
PLANETS · Project

Sustainable Alternatives for Plasticizers, Flame Retardants and Surfactants in Consumer Goods

manufacturingPilotedTRL 7

Imagine if the chemicals that make plastics flexible or stop things from catching fire were as safe as water. This work replaces old, toxic additives with clean versions that don't harm people or the planet. It's like upgrading the hidden ingredients in your home products to be completely non-toxic without losing their performance.

By the numbers
3
classes of molecules targeted
21
consortium partners
62%
industry ratio
The business problem

What needed solving

Chemical manufacturers face increasing regulatory pressure to replace toxic plasticizers, flame retardants, and surfactants without losing product performance or economic profitability.

The solution

What was built

The project is developing safer alternative molecules and integrating them into coatings, insulation foams, and childcare articles.

Audience

Who needs this

Plastic additive manufacturersFlame retardant producersSurfactant chemical suppliersConsumer goods brands (childcare/home)
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Home Furnishings
enterprise
Target: Insulation foam manufacturer

If you are an insulation foam manufacturer dealing with strict safety regulations — this project developed safer flame retardants that protect workers and consumers while remaining economically viable.

Consumer Goods
any
Target: Childcare product brand

If you are a childcare product brand dealing with chemical safety concerns in plastics — this project developed safer plasticizers that reduce environmental impact and health risks for infants.

Chemicals
mid-size
Target: Industrial coating producer

If you are an industrial coating producer dealing with toxic surfactant runoff — this project developed sustainable surfactants that maintain performance while meeting new environmental standards.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the expected cost or price of these alternatives?

Based on available project data, the project aims to ensure economic viability throughout the value chains, though specific price points are not listed.

Can these solutions be produced at an industrial scale?

Yes, the project targets TRL 6 for molecules and TRL 7 for incorporation into consumer goods, indicating a move toward industrial scale.

How is IP and licensing handled for the new molecules?

Based on available project data, the project includes business plans and market uptake approaches, but specific licensing terms are not provided.

Which regulations does this project address?

The project aligns with the Green Deal and the safety and sustainability guidelines adopted by the European Commission.

What is the timeline for market availability?

The project runs from 2024-11-01 to 2028-10-31, suggesting market-ready roadmaps will be finalized by late 2028.

Consortium

Who built it

The project is heavily industry-driven with a 62% industry ratio, comprising 13 industrial partners including 8 large companies and 2 SMEs. This strong commercial presence, combined with 6 research organizations and 2 universities across 7 countries, suggests a high probability of successful market transition and practical application.

How to reach the team

Contact Commissariat A L Energie Atomique Et Aux Energies Alternatives in France

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to find the specific industrial partner for your chemical value chain.

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