Project: Biodegradable polymer production process from the food industry as raw material for 3D printing

The project is co-financed by the European Union from the European Fund for Regional Development, which is implemented as part of the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014–2020.

Summary of the project

The company CROTEH d.o.o., the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, and the Croatian Agency for Small Economy, Innovations, and Investments (HAMAG BICRO) signed Grant Agreement No. PoC8_8_35 for the implementation of the project “Biodegradable polymer production process from the food industry as raw material for 3D printing.”

The project involves creating a prototype and demonstrating the technical feasibility of the PHA production process from waste yeast from the food industry. It will also examine the possibility of using the produced PHA as raw material for 3D printing.

The total value of the project is HRK 722.277,00. Grant awarded amount to HRK 499.423,70.

The estimated duration of the project is 18 months.

Project implementation period 

The project was implemented from December 1, 2019 to May 31, 2021.

The general goal of the project

The main goal of the project is to verify the concept of the production process of a biodegradable polymer, polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), from waste streams of the food industry, its biodegradability, and the possibility of using it as a raw material for 3D printing.

Purpose of the project (specific objectives)

  1. Verification of the concept of the production process of biodegradable polymer polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) from waste streams of the food industry, verification of biodegradability, and the possibility of its use as a raw material for 3D printing

  2. Prototyping and demonstration of the technical feasibility of the PHA production process from waste yeast from the food (brewery) industry

  3. Checking the possibility of using the produced PHA as a raw material for 3D printing

Expected results of the project

  • A prototype of the technological solution for the biodegradable polymer production process was created
  • A minimum of 12% PHA of waste yeast organic matter was successfully synthesized
  • Confirmed minimum 90% biodegradability of PHA
  • Confirmed minimum biodegradability of PHA
  • The possibility of using the produced PHA as a raw material for 3D printing has been confirmed
  • A market analysis was made

  • The total value of the project is: HRK 722.277,00 (EUR 95.822,01)

  • Total acceptable costs amount to: HRK 499.423,70 (EUR 66.301,64)

For more information about the project, contact Goran Lukić at: info@croteh.eu

Results after project implementation

  • A prototype of the technological solution for the biodegradable polymer production process was created
  • Successfully synthesized 12.6% PHA from waste yeast organic matter
  • Achieved biodegradability of PHA, which is 97.83% ± 0.91%
  • 3D printing produced a sample, a solid and stable cube with dimensions (width x height x depth) of 20.1x19.8x19.7 mm
  • A market analysis was made.

For more information about the European Structural and Investment Funds, visit www.strukturnifondovi.hr

For more information about the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion, visit http://www.strukturnifondovi.hr/op-konkurentnost-i-kohezija-2014-2020-779

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1. REAL SAMPLE COLLECTION

We collect representative field samples directly at client facilities and analyze them in our accredited laboratory in accordance with recognized standards. Our laboratory testing includes physical, chemical, and biological parameters required to define design input values, including load variability and seasonal or operational fluctuations. These data form the foundation for reliable scaling solutions and technology development.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

Based on the assessment of existing conditions and laboratory results, we develop technical solutions tailored to each client’s requirements. When designing solutions, we consider plant capacity, influent characteristics, discharge requirements (public sewer systems or natural receiving waters), and circular economy principles. To support detailed process development, our laboratory is equipped with reactors, measuring instruments, and pilot-scale systems that allow us to simulate real operating conditions. Through pilot testing, we evaluate process efficiency, optimize operating parameters, and validate treatment concepts before full-scale implementation. This approach significantly reduces investment and operational risk while ensuring long-term sustainability of the selected solution. We also place strong emphasis on optimizing energy, chemical, and resource consumption while minimizing the plant’s environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle.

3. ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING

Our multidisciplinary engineering team prepares complete project documentation, from conceptual designs and feasibility studies to detailed engineering documentation and permit applications. All documentation is developed in accordance with current legislation, technical regulations, and applicable standards while maintaining close coordination with clients and regulatory authorities.

4. PLANT ENGINEERING AND INSTALLATION – Complete turnkey plant implementation proposal, including detailed design documentation and commissioning services

We deliver turnkey treatment plants tailored to each client’s needs. Our services include detailed engineering design, equipment procurement and delivery, site organization, installation of process and electrical equipment, and integration of automation and control systems. The final stage includes functional testing and preparation for plant commissioning.

5. CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION

We provide professional technical supervision during construction to ensure full compliance with project documentation, technical standards, and contractual requirements. We monitor construction quality, installed equipment, and adherence to project timelines.

6. PLANT COMMISSIONING AND STAFF TRAINING

After construction and functional testing are complete, we perform staged commissioning with continuous monitoring of process parameters and adjustment of operating conditions. We also prepare operational manuals and provide professional staff training to ensure safe, efficient, and long-term stable plant operation.

7. POST-CONSTRUCTION TESTING

After project completion, we perform functional and other tests to verify that the treatment plant achieves the required operational parameters and effluent quality.

8. PLANT SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

We provide preventive and corrective maintenance, scheduled service inspections, and 24/7/365 technical support. Our systematic maintenance approach extends equipment lifespan, minimizes downtime risk, and ensures high operational efficiency.

9. PLANT MONITORING AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL

We implement SCADA and PLC automation and control systems that enable continuous plant monitoring, analysis of key process parameters, and rapid response to operational deviations or fluctuations in wastewater flow and loading. We place particular emphasis on reducing energy, chemical, and labor consumption.

10. PLANT OPTIMIZATION AND RECONSTRUCTION

We perform technical assessments of existing systems to identify capacity limitations, energy losses, and operational inefficiencies. Based on our findings, we recommend retrofits, upgrades, and modernization of technological process lines to improve efficiency, ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements, and extend plant service life.

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