AIMPLAS joins EU-backed MULTIPLY project to advance microalgae-based packaging

SPAIN – AIMPLAS has outlined its role in the European MULTIPLY project, an initiative aimed at accelerating the development of bio-based materials derived from microalgae, including recyclable barrier coatings and cosmetic packaging applications.

The project is funded under the Horizon Europe framework and brings together a consortium of 17 partners.

Its overarching objective is to develop and scale up ten biological innovations across five sectors – food, animal feed, cosmetics, lubricants and biomaterials – to reduce dependence on fossil-based and food-derived ingredients.

At the core of MULTIPLY are five microalgae species: Arthrospira (commonly known as Spirulina), Chromochloris zofingiensis, Nannochloropsis, Tetraselmis and diatoms.

These organisms are being harnessed to create new ingredients and materials with functional and sustainability advantages.

A major workstream focuses on compostable films, recyclable paper coatings and packaging solutions derived from algae oils and starches.

Other applications under development include natural colourants and protein ingredients for food, salmon feed enriched with microalgae components, oils and esters for personal care, and bio-based esters for lubricants.

Within the packaging segment, AIMPLAS is tasked with developing sustainable materials from microalgae-derived polymers.

This includes creating recyclable, water- and grease-resistant coatings for paper substrates as alternatives to conventional paper/polyethylene multilayer structures, which are often difficult to recycle in standard paper streams.

The centre is also working on active cosmetic packaging solutions incorporating microalgae compounds into encapsulation matrices and structural elements.

The aim is to enhance product preservation and functionality while reducing reliance on synthetic preservatives.

The next phase of the MULTIPLY project will move into pilot-scale activities, including nutrient recovery processes and the rollout of a new monitoring tool to optimize production.

Initial batches of algae extracts and oils are set to be supplied to consortium partners for further formulation and testing.

Sustainability assessments and market studies will accompany technical development to support future commercialization of algae-based products manufactured in Europe.

Project coordinator Marta Paiva of A4F said the initiative focuses on targeted, high-impact applications where algae can viably replace conventional ingredients, supported by data on performance, scalability and environmental footprint.

The development builds on AIMPLAS’s recent progress in recycling complex multilayer plastics, signaling a broader strategy to combine advanced recycling with next-generation bio-based material innovation.

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