This ECOPLACKAGING consortium comprises 1 Large Company, 1 SME, 1 Research Center and 1 University from 3 European countries: Portugal, Spain and Czech Republic.

Consortium Complementarity

• University of Azores: Knowledge in natural fibres (filler 1) synthesis and functionalization
• CINN-CSIC: Knowledge on antimicrobial glasses (filler 2) and microbiology
• SYNPO: Expertise in development and evaluation of biopolymers (matrix)
• SPA 2000. Expertise in production of polymeric materials and composites (composite production)

The Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN) is a joint research center created in 2007 by a joint initiative of the National Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), the University of Oviedo and the Principality of Asturias. 

Since 2009, one of the research interests of the CINN is focused on the development of inorganic antimicrobial materials. The research performed on this topic has resulted in:

• 27 publications related to inorganic antimicrobial composites published in Q1 / Q2 journals

• 4 patents (ES2361695, ES2529557, ES2367387, ES2341749).

Some relevant projects in the last years are: Development of Nano/micro glass spheres with biocidal activity IPT-2012-1349-010000 and Development of new generation of advanced and sustainable glasses with antimicrobial and luminescent properties IDE/2015/000799.

Since its foundation in 1976, the University of the Azores has played a fundamental role in education and research, thus contributing to professional qualification, economic growth, social improvement and intercultural awareness. 

The Azores group involved in Ecoplackaging is qualified in the general areas of materials science and biology. It has participated in research programs in the areas of study of materials structure, mostly by diffraction methods, surface science methods (including XPS, AFM and SEM) and vibrational spectroscopy methods (FTIR); mechanical behaviour of natural fibres (tension test); preparation and development of a wide range of materials (glass, ceramics and biomass biocomposites). In addition, the Azores group is part of a centre for "biotechnology development" (CBA- Biotechnology Centre of Azores).

SYNPO akciová společnost is almost 70 years the leading center of applied R&D in resins, laquers, paints, coatings, adhesives, putties and polymers.

SYNPO, akciová společnost has over 70 years of experience with tradition in R&D of polymeric materials. Several research teams are working on the synthesis of epoxies, polyesters, polyurethanes, and polyacrylates and on formulation of paints, composites and adhesives. One of SYNPO's major research areas is development of nanostructured and hybrid polymers and polymers based on recyclable and renewable raw materials. Analysis, evaluation and testing are carried out in accredited laboratories. SYNPO has also an extensive experience in technology transfer. 

SPA 2000 Ltd. is dedicated to research and development of plastic formulations and production technology. Among others the target segments are mainly - plastic material recycling, development of new plastic applications, consulting and supply of plastic processing technology and distribution of raw materials for plastic processing

The main participation of SPA 2000 in Ecoplackaging will be in project results in the mid and final stage - testing at SMEs, dissemination within relevant bio-based packaging producers.PLA modification for packaging is one of the main long-term R&D activity for SPA 2000. Has also lab-scale and semi-industrial instruments for testing and validation of the results.