LigniLabs GmbH
LigniLabs
LigniLabs is a spin-off from the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research that was founded in 2022 and specialises in the bio-based encapsulation of active substances.
ID: 863809098479-66
Lobbying Activity
Response to Towards a Circular, Regenerative and Competitive Bioeconomy
23 Jun 2025
As a startup based in Mainz and Wiesbaden, Germany, we specialize in innovative bio-based active ingredient encapsulation using lignin, a natural component of wood, as capsule shell,. Since our technology enters uncharted regulatory territory, we recently engaged with Ms. Jutta Paulus (Member of the European Parliament), who kindly referred us to you. Our main concern is the biodegradability of lignin - a biopolymer that arises as a byproduct in the pulping process during paper production from wood. Unlike other biopolymers such as cellulose or starch (both polysaccharides), lignin is not readily broken down by soil organisms into CO and water. Instead, it is transformed into what is known as soil organic matter, thereby contributing to humus formation. As a result, there are currently no established OECD, DIN, or ASTM standards for assessing the biodegradability of lignin, such as those commonly used for other bioplastics. It is well known that white rot fungi, naturally found in forest soil, are capable of decomposing lignin - a process that can be observed in the white cellulose residues of decaying trees. Although wood as a natural product also decomposes slowly in soil, a clear distinction from synthetic macro- and microplastics is essential. For the scientific and industrial communities, lignin represents a promising building block for bio-based and potentially biodegradable materials. However, standardized testing methods and certifications for evaluating the biodegradability and environmental fate of modified lignin are lacking. This regulatory ambiguity creates uncertainty for both potential investors and B2B customers. Since there is no suitable biodegradability test for lignin, partner institutions can only offer cellulose-based reference tests. However, these tests fail to account for the specific microorganisms and fungi capable of degrading lignin. A dedicated degradation test for lignin - ideally incorporating white rot fungi - or a method to assess the conversion of modified lignins and lignin-based nano- and microparticles into soil organic matter is crucial for enabling the successful use of lignin in bio-based applications. We are convinced that our technology, which uses lignin as a capsule shell for the encapsulation, transport, and targeted release of active ingredients, holds significant economic potential. Moreover, the use of kraft lignin as an encapsulation material could substantially reduce dependence on fossil-based capsules in agriculture. Our technology thus offers a targeted, bio-based delivery method. This innovative approach has already been recognized by the Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation (SPRIN-D), which has been supporting us for over a year. We would be pleased to engage in a dialogue with you on this important matter, both to gain valuable insights and to share the specific challenges we face. In particular, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss whether the development of a standardized test using lignin as a reference material - and our lignin microcapsules as the experimental group, including lignin-degrading organisms - could represent a feasible and impactful solution.
Read full responseMeeting with Ilaria Flores Martin (Cabinet of Commissioner Jessika Roswall)
20 Jun 2025 · Bioeconomy