BiOCARE

The biomedical sector suffers from a shortage of innovative materials that can reduce the problems associated with medical waste without recycling options. Biopolymers derived from agro-industrial waste emerge as a promising alternative solution for the biomedical sector.

The medical tissue is obtained by exploiting nanotechnology and other Key Enabling Technologies, through a green extraction process to obtain the main constituent cutin with high purity (>90% w/w). The inherent antimicrobial properties of the fabric help to create bacteria-resistant tissue, aligning with EU guidelines on antibiotic resistance.

Up-scaling of cutin purification and depolymerisation, validation of the safety of the tissue, market analysis considering the innovativeness and exclusivity inherent in the product made, realisation of a digital intermediation service between all the stakeholders involved in the process, aimed at waste material management. 

Target:

• Early adopters: innovative companies seeking advanced technologies, healthcare professionals and patients to companies and regulatory bodies.
• End Users: physicians, healthcare professionals and patients.

Fallout and Impact (Produced Change):
BiOCARE offers economic and environmental benefits, contributing to a transition towards more sustainable industrial practices in the medical tissue sector. This leads to a significant reduction in disposal costs and environmental damage associated with non-biodegradable polymers. The use of cutin as a renewable resource helps decrease dependence on non-renewable sources, mitigating production costs and the risk associated with price fluctuations.