JTF SNN funding for biobased alternatives high-performance coatings

Prof. Ben Feringa of the Faculty of Science and Engineering (University of Groningen) will receive EUR 300,000 Just Transition Fund (JTF) funding of the SNN in a joint project to realize biobased alternatives for high-performance coatings. Feringa acts as knowledge partner, contributing deep expertise in chemistry and photochemical processes. 

Circolide, the University of Groningen and AkzoNobel have together secured approximately EUR 750,000 in funding for the project.

The project focuses on replacing conventional acrylate binders, still largely derived from oil and gas, with biobased butenolides produced from biomass residues using a light-driven (photochemical) process. These new monomers are designed to deliver improved coating properties compared to existing acrylates, while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions and reliance on fossil feedstocks.

From proven chemistry to market adoption

Within the project, the partners will further scale up the production of these biobased monomers and develop coating formulations based on them. The goal is to demonstrate that sustainable binders can meet the technical, processing and performance requirements of industrial coating applications, enabling a realistic route from proven chemistry to market adoption.

Strengthening the Northern Netherlands as a green chemistry hub

The JTF valorisation project aligns with regional ambitions to position the Northern Netherlands as a leading hub for green and circular chemistry. By valorising biomass residues and developing scalable production technologies, the initiative contributes to reduced CO₂ emissions, innovation-driven economic growth and high-quality employment in the region.

About Circolide

Circolide is a Groningen-based deeptech startup developing biobased chemical building blocks from biomass residues using innovative, light-driven production processes.

This project is co-financed by the European Union and ministry of economic fair through the Just Transition Fund (JTF), within the EFRO 2021–2027 programme, and implemented by SNN.

Read more

• Beyond acrylates: Circolide, AkzoNobel and University of Groningen advance biobased alternatives for high-performance coatings (Circolide news)