SmartCoupling project

SmartCoupling project

Coupling enzymatic and chemical pathways to develop sustainable tools for processing lignocellulosic biomass

The SmartCoupling project (PEPR-B-Best) aims to “couple the enzymatic and chemical pathways to develop sustainable tools for transforming lignocellulosic biomass”.

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) is a promising and sustainable source of energy and materials, but its inherent recalcitrant nature is a hindrance to its development in the fields of biofuels, chemicals and nanocelluloses. This is why sustainable approaches to deconstructing this LCB are needed to reduce the energy costs associated with the process and the toxicity of the chemicals involved.

SmartCoupling's ambition is therefore to develop sustainable ways of transforming LCB by coupling enzymes (LPMOs, expansins) and chemistry, in order to obtain functionalized cellulose nanofibers with controlled properties (colloidal stability, hydrophobicity, adhesive or absorbent properties) and innovative synthons such as oxidized oligomers.
SmartCoupling

SmartCoupling
© INRAE

Project Synopsis:

Start Date- Project End Date: 2025-2028
Coordination: Ana Villares, INRAE-BIA
Partners/entities involved: BIA, FARE, BBF from INRAE,  LCPO (CNRS) and UofT (University of Toronto, Canada)
BIA teams involved: NANO
Funding Type: ANR PEPR B-BEST