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Nanozymes: Next-generation catalysts to convert lignin into low-cost, high-performance fossil-free aromatic polyols.

Objective

Europe must decarbonise its chemical industry while reducing dependence on imported fossil carbon. Polyols are a key building block for insulation, construction and consumer products, but today they are almost entirely made from fossil feedstocks. Bio-based alternatives exist, but they lack the performance, safety and cost required for widespread industrial adoption.

The objective of this project is to demonstrate a new industrial process that converts lignin, an abundant European bioresource, into high-performance aromatic polyols that can replace fossil-based alternatives. The project targets applications where fire safety and material strength are critical, and where existing bio-based solutions fall short

Our innovative process is based on a new class of bio-inspired catalysts that overcome the long-standing trade-off between selectivity and industrial robustness in lignin processing. By combining the selectivity of enzymes with the stability of industrial catalysts, the process enables controlled conversion of lignin at low temperature and normal pressure, while preserving the chemical structures needed for high-performance materials. This avoids the harsh conditions that make existing lignin processes costly, inefficient and difficult to scale.
The project will finalise the process optimisation, validate product performance in real industrial applications, and deliver a fully engineered 3kt/year commercial demonstration plant.

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Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-EIC-ACC - HORIZON EIC Accelerator

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-EIC-2026-ACCELERATOR-02

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Coordinator

Level Nine Labs GMBH
Net EU contribution
€ 2 485 221,38
Address
Johann-Hittorf-Straße 8
12489 Berlin
Germany
SME
Yes
Region
Berlin Berlin Berlin
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
Links
Total cost
No data