Cirkulär is a start-up that converts residual biomass waste streams into high-value products using filamentous fungi. Cirkulär is currently upscaling its production of fungal biomass (fungal cells) from biomass residues of the Nymölla pulp- and papermill. This project aims to develop a fractionation method that can isolate the protein, beta-glucan, and chitosan fractions of the fungal cells, and increase the economic value and product quality of the biomass.
The hypothesis is that fractioning the cells to higher value fractions, will lead to an overall improved economic feasibility. The expected outcomes are a proof of concept for fractionizing the fungal biomass, an established protocol for obtaining high-purity fractions, and a successful fractionation at pilot scale.
The project has the potential to increase the profitability of Swedish bio-industries, reduce CO2 emissions from waste handling, and provide sustainable solutions for valorizing side streams.
Participants
Cirkulär and Lund University LTH, Center for applied life sciences
Budget & time plan
The project’s total budget is 1 MSEK and the project runs for 6 months – between May and December 2024.