The main results of the project can be summarized as follows:
- Scaling technology
We successfully scaled up our technology from 2 L to pilot plant, marking a crucial step in scaling up the production of EcoFLEXY. Several key activities were undertaken to ensure the seamless transition of the fermentation process from the laboratory scale to pre-pilot and eventually pilot scale, while maintaining consistent performance. The careful selection of a pre-pilot plant facility was a critical first step, necessitating infrastructure compatibility and the availability of equipment suited for downstream processing. Scaling up the fermentation process from 2 L to a minimum of 150 L, accompanied by matched downstream equipment, was a focal point of these efforts. During this scale-up, emphasis was placed on studying and adjusting critical parameters such as aeration rate and agitation rate to guarantee the homogeneous distribution of pH and nutrients.
- Installation of pilot plant
We identified three pilot locations in Denmark for pilot plant locations. After analyzing several criteria based on access to resources, supportive infrastructure, regulation compliance and cost, we concluded to go with Alfa Laval Innovation House. Once the location was secured, our activities to build the pilot plant were executed successfully.
- Partnership trails and EcoFLEXY refinement
EcoFLEXY was actively deployed with a broad base of validation partners with the overarching goal of collecting feedback for production improvement. Through the deployment of EcoFLEXY, the project sought to evaluate its real-world applicability, performance, and effectiveness in diverse operational contexts. The feedback garnered from validation partners played a crucial role in iteratively improving the coating, ensuring its alignment with practical requirements and performance expectations. The go-to-market plan was revised based on market research and trial users’ feedback.
- Certifications
Throughout the project implementation, EcoFLEXY successfully attained the necessary regulatory compliance, safety, and quality standards. Through meticulous testing and assessments, EcoFLEXY demonstrated its adherence to a comprehensive regulatory framework outlined in the project work plan.
- Patents
The project has resulted in remarkable achievements in IP protection, surpassing our initial targets. As envisaged in the project application, we have successfully submitted 3 patents, ensuring the protection of our product key characteristics and utilization. Furthermore, our work during this project has resulted in an additional patent, currently in draft form and set to be submitted by year-end.
- Dissemination & recognitions
Our dissemination efforts successfully reached a large general audience, educating them about the impact of the project. Notably, our significant achievements in building awareness included receiving prestigious awards and recognitions featured in both newspapers and online media. For example, we have been selected winners of the Special Category “Sustainable Living” in the Social Innovation Tournament (European Investment Bank Institute), Top 10 solutions at the Ray of Hope Prize (Biomimicry institute), 101 top biotechnology startups and companies in Denmark (Best Startups EU), and 8 Cleantech startups catching our eye for the year ahead (EU Startups).
