We look back on a very successful and inspiring first edition of the HighTech Chemistry event hosted by ARC CBBC in collaboration with the Technical University of Eindhoven. The aim of this event was too increase the impact of fundamental research in the field of energy, materials and feedstock transition by building a bridge to the manufacturing industry and innovative chemical companies.
Around 170 attendees gathered in of the auditorium of the Technical University of Eindhoven to be informed about the latest developments in chemistry and chemical engineering and to discuss possible collaborations and the need for effective legislation and funding.
Prof. Kitty Nijmeijer, Dean of the department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering opened the event by giving a short explanation about the different parties involved in the chemical landscape of the Netherlands with a focus on the South and gave an overview of the research performed at TU/e as the host university.
The role of chemistry on the way to a sustainable and circular society translates in developments such as the use of biomass and waste as feedstock, electrification, batteries, smart coatings and much more.
There is a lot more to sustainability than enhancing existing products and processes
During a discussion between Kitty Nijmeijer, prof. Bert Weckhuysen, Scientific Director of ARC CBBC and Michiel Dorrepaal, Senior Systems Engineer Mechatronics at VDL, a bus was shown as metaphor for all circular transitions. It became clear that there is more to sustainability than enhancing existing products and processes. VDL Groep invests in innovative and sustainable technologies and projects connecting to their expertise. Dorrepaal explained that the TRL level of new technologies should be at least 3 or 4XX for VDL to be able to convert these technologies into products which can be produced within a reasonable amount of time. Furthermore there should be a reasonable business case which is often a limiting factor. Governmental investments would be very beneficial in this matter.
When asked about the criteria for collaboration partners, Dorrepaal added that they should be: no-nonsense, skin in the game (prepared to take an investment risk), accelerate development and realization, strengthen the Dutch ecosystem and be complementary to VDL.
Examples from academia
Moderator Anouschka Laheij continued the conversation with prof. Hans Kuipers, program Director of ARC CBBC. Kuipers elaborated on the research performed within ARC CBBC and how multi-scale modelling and digitalization contributes to time and cost efficient ways to scale-up and optimize manufacturing processes.
Morteza Hadian then gave an example of the use of multi-scale modelling in his research on conversion of methane into hydrogen and valuable molecules without emitting CO2 using digitalization and multi-scale modelling.
Another example of academic research was given by associate professor Catarina Esteves. Esteves showed examples of innovation in functional coatings. Coatings are essential for overall products and can be made in a more sustainable way and can even be smart. They can be self-healing or self-cleaning. Esteves emphasized the need for collaboration throughout the whole value chain.
Associate professor Antoni Former Cuenca addressed the pivotal role electrochemical processes will play in grid energy storage and explained the role of redox flow batteries.
Good technology is not enough
Chair of the platform ‘Groene chemie, nieuwe economie’, Arnold Stokking spoke about innovative new chemistry but underlined that good technology is not enough. Maximization of a CO2 free energy generation should be a national and European priority as should prioritization on electrification and maximization of carbon efficiency / raw materials sourcing.
But there should also be focus on: new circular value chains, cross sectoral consortia, circularity stimulating policies and improved financial tooling and funding!
Round tables
The animated round table discussions led to valuable and concrete ideas and connections. Energy storage, the use of waste such as CO2, biomass and plastics as feedstock, the use of AI and digitalization, plasma technology, young talent and the valley of opportunity were the subjects which will all get a follow-up event in a smaller setting to stimulate concrete collaboration.
Lessons learned
Michael Boot , co-CEO of Vertoro, a company specialized in bio-based alternatives to fossil fuels and Roger Blokland, CEO of Relement, a company specialized in the development of functional bio-based aromatics, gave us insight in the obstacles they overcame to get their businesses in green chemistry started. Both acknowledged that the investing climate for innovative companies in the Netherlands could be improved. less bureaucracy when it comes to patents. They also stated that showcasing is important to attract investors. This is not common enough in the Netherlands.
The event was concluded by prof. Bert Weckhuysen and prof. Silvia Lenaerts, rector Magnificus of the TU/e. They are both strong believers in innovative education and collaboration in a broad sense. Sharing facilities and knowledge, educate a new generation able to connect and communicate to be a true changemaker.
The positive vibe of the day gave us a lot of inspiration. We have heard interesting discussions, seen people connect and have been inspired for a second edition. We will start with a concrete follow-up on the discussions held at the round table by organizing smaller targeted sessions during the course of the next months. Stay tuned on the developments!
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