SeaBioComp
Development and demonstrators of durable biobased composites for a marine environment
Priority Axis
Technological and Social InnovationSpecific objective
Technological Innovation
Lead partner
CENTEXBELContact
Start Date
01/03/2019End Date
31/08/2022Project budget
4 129 325 €ERDF amount
2 477 595 €ERDF rate
60%About
Common challenge
There is a growing demand for composites for applications in a marine environment due to the growing markets for fish & seaweed farming, energy harvesting, boats, pontons, anchoring and buoy elements, etc. (cfrs Solent LEP – Innovation strategy 2016 , The blue cluster, Flemish spearhead cluster). The reduced weight and relative low cost make these materials very interesting for these appalications. At present only petrol-based composites are applied, but concern is growing about the long-term ecological impact of these materials. Litter and microplastics are contaminating the sea, having a detrimental impact on sea-life (cfr Flemish action plan against litter in sea). Therefore, renewable materials should be developed; reducing the depletion of the fossil-based materials, limiting emission of greenhouse gases and reducing ecotoxic impact on the environment. At the same time, the materials should meet the highest technical performance and withstand longterm harsh sea environment including mechanical forces, aggressive environment, intense UV light etc. Meeting this duality is a major challenge.