Bioreactor with livestock waste for PET and its subsequent valorization in functional materials. (COWPET)
Program: CIRCULAR ECONOMY R+D+i DGA
Ref. No.: EC-36-2021
RESOLUTION Date: 11/30/2021
Execution date: 2021-30/09/2023
The COWPET project focuses on the recycling and recovery of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) waste through the application of enzymatic and/or microbial degradation techniques. This strategy is based on the ability of certain microorganisms to produce enzymes that hydrolyze polyesters such as PET and convert it into their main source of energy and carbon.
Previous studies have shown that this special type of microorganisms are found in the rumen of the cow, and hypothetically could be found in the manure produced by the ruminant itself, which would make them less invasive and more accessible to obtain.
Under this approach, the COWPET project aims to develop enzymatic and/or microbial recycling processes for the valorization of PET waste to obtain structural monomers from which to obtain a new polymer for the manufacture of new plastic products.
Engineering and Assemblies Monzón S.L
Plásticos Escanero S.L
Infinitia Reserchear S.L.
Aragon Institute of Technology.
Aragon Agricultural Machinery Cluster Association.
TOTAL PROJECT BUDGET: 550,400 €.
TOTAL BUDGET ITAINNOVA: 100.000 €.
TOTAL PROJECT GRANT: 316,480 €.
TOTAL FINANCING ITANNOVA: 57,500 €.
The COWPET project, whose reference is EC-36-2021, has been funded by
Department of Economy, Planning and Employment of the Government of Aragon.
