Irurena Group, an active partner in the ECOBIOFOR European Project

We are part of the ECOBIOFOR Project, a project funded by the European Commission under the 7th Framework Programme (FP7, SME-2013, GA: 605215). It started on September 1, 2014, and is expected to conclude at the end of November 2016.

The main objective of the ECOBIOFOR project is the development of new bio-solvents using renewable resources via innovative biotechnological and chemical processes based on the principles of green chemistry. These bio-solvents aim to replace those of petrochemical origin commonly used in the paint, varnish, and coating industries, promoting more sustainable production and consumption.

The coatings industry requires more environmentally friendly components for the formulation of coatings, inks, adhesives, paints, and varnishes, as solvents are one of the main and basic components in their formulations. The R&D project responds to the sector’s need to introduce more environmentally friendly products into the market.

The development of these “bio-solvents” is a clear example of the potential that biotechnology application offers at an industrial level, providing patentable technical results and economically viable outcomes in the form of new products and technologies. This approach enhances the transition of the European paint, coatings, and solvent industry from a petroleum-based chemistry to a biotechnologically based and more sustainable one.

In this way, ECOBIOFOR boosts the coatings sector and biotechnological companies, facilitating the manufacturing of “bio” products with higher added value. This is achieved through the development of a new generation of paints with a reduced carbon footprint while maintaining their performance and properties.

The consortium includes the following organizations:

• 5 associations of SME companies, comprising three biotechnology associations and two paint associations, with a total of 1349 members (1009 SMEs).
• 3 companies, one chemical product manufacturer (Industry), and two paint manufacturers (SMEs).
• 3 Research and Development centers with previous experience in Green Chemistry, organic and biotechnological synthesis, and paint formulation.

Additionally, as members of an external committee of experts, the consortium collaborates with experts from ABENGOA BIOENERGIA NUEVAS TECNOLOGIAS and IHOBE to provide green raw materials and support and provide recommendations on green policy strategies.