European Innovation Council

DePoly is a spin off out of the LSMO lab at EPFL- Valais that has developed a novel technology allowing for the chemical recycling of PET plastic back to its main two components ethylene glycol (EG) and terephthalic acid (TPA). Our approach turns low valued materials (PET waste) into high-valued chemicals like TPA creating a circular economy. We expect this process to generate revenue from chemically recycling PET to TPA/EG, which can be sold back to industry to make new virgin PET plastic and allowing for a sustainable source of TPA and EG on the market.

Gr3n invented a new process which allows for the first time to recycle PET bottles/food containers chemically in a profitable way. Gr3n developed an innovative process, based on a new application of microwave technology to a well known chemical reaction which provides for the first time with an economically efficient chemical recycling process of PET (Polyethylene Terephtalate) and allows an industrial implementation of this recycling method. This new process can potentially change how PET is recycled worldwide with a huge financial benefit for the recycling industry.

Bloom Biorenewables Ltd is a company focused on developing innovative technology to convert wood and agricultural waste into renewable materials that can replace petroleum-based products. Incorporated in 2019 and based in Marly, Switzerland, the company aims to provide sustainable alternatives for various industries, including chemicals, fragrances, plastics, and textiles. By employing a biomass deconstruction technology platform, Bloom Biorenewables offers a cost-effective method to extract bio-based molecules from plant materials. This approach not only helps customers reduce their reliance on fossil fuels but also contributes to efforts in mitigating climate change by lowering carbon footprints and supporting the transition to a circular economy.

Deasyl is identified, in-licence, and develops novel chemistry into scalable processes used by major fine chemical and petrochemical players.

N2 Applied is a Norwegian technology company focused on innovative solutions for nitrogen fertilizer production directly on farms. Established in 2010 and headquartered in Oslo, the company has developed a method that allows livestock farmers to convert liquid organic substrates, such as manure and biogas digestate, into fertilizer by extracting nitrogen from the air. This process not only enhances the nitrogen content of the substrate but also mitigates ammonia loss and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. N2 Applied's technology promotes resource efficiency and cost savings for farmers by facilitating local fertilizer production, thus eliminating the need for long supply chains and reliance on fossil-based chemical fertilizers. The company's scalable system contributes to a circular farming model, offering additional benefits such as reductions in methane and ammonia emissions, as well as minimizing odors. N2 Applied operates a test center in Norway and has branches in the Netherlands and the UK, positioning itself within the realms of livestock farming, organic agriculture, and sustainable practices.

UniSieve Ltd develops and manufactures mechanically flexible molecular sieving membranes. The company’s technology enables a combination of various molecular sieves and polymeric membranes, yielding reliable separation solutions. It offers its solutions for chemical feedstock purification, biogas upgrading, sensing, space related applications, gas separation, and liquid separation. UniSieve Ltd is based in Zurich, Switzerland.

TreaTech Sàrl, founded in 2015 and based in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializes in liquid waste management solutions. The company employs innovative catalytic hydrothermal gasification technology to treat various liquid wastes, including sewage sludge, industrial wastewater, and biomass residues. This thermochemical process converts high-salt effluents into valuable byproducts such as fresh water, biogas, and natural fertilizers, thereby addressing global challenges related to clean water availability. TreaTech's team, comprised of engineers from EPFL, possesses expertise in heterogeneous catalysis and energy systems integration. With a commitment to sustainability, the company aims to provide low-cost, environmentally friendly waste treatment solutions that align with circular economy principles. Currently, TreaTech is focused on developing a demonstration unit to showcase the effectiveness of its technology.

Demeta S.A.S develops catalysts for green chemistry. The company offers Olefin Metathesis technology platform, which includes NexTene resins, a ruthenium catalysts; and Polymetallic Catalysis platform for oxidative cleavage of alkenes. The company was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Rennes, France.

Demeta S.A.S develops catalysts for green chemistry. The company offers Olefin Metathesis technology platform, which includes NexTene resins, a ruthenium catalysts; and Polymetallic Catalysis platform for oxidative cleavage of alkenes. The company was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Rennes, France.