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Description
This project focused on creating knowledge that allows the development of new innovative products in markets with high added value, such as sectors related to the sea and blue growth. This objective, driven by market needs associated with the identified areas, is supported by a project strategy based on R&DT activities.In this context, the main guidelines for innovation and technological development, aimed at the identified sectors, are based on the following pillars: plastic recycling, development of artificial reefs and carbon sequestration.
The project''s main objective was defined as the development of modular systems, based on the recycling of plastic waste, to benefit and monitor marine life. To achieve the general result, a list of specific objectives was structured, namely:
- Development of a modular solution for artificial reefs through EcoDesign;
- Study of a plastic waste recycling process;
- Development of EcoComposite materials from plastic waste, previously recycled and transformed;
- Development of modular reef systems, developed from recycled plastic EcoComposites.
The achievement of this set of specific objectives is thus expected to achieve the general objective, which should result in a product, aimed at promoting the preservation of marine ecosystems and blue growth. In addition, it is also intended that this project, due to its technological advantages, will trigger a knock-on effect for other sectors, such as cosmetics, with the collection and reuse of algae developed on artificial reefs, at the end of their life cycle, as ingredient for product design in this area.
Based on the defined objectives and identified areas of application, this development represents an innovation in terms of materials, through the collection, recycling and transformation of plastic waste into recycled raw material for the development of new EcoComposites and their subsequent functionalization, for a positive impact in the future.
Summary of project results
The project involves collecting plastics from the ocean, such as fishing nets, to create substrates that support algae growth. The project also includes the development of biodegradable substrates that decompose over time, allowing algae to settle on the ocean floor without harming the ecosystem, while efficiently capturing carbon. In the initial phase, various types of plastic waste and transformation processes were analysed for recycling and producing reef modules. The behaviour of these recycled components in seawater was tested in laboratories, which led to adjustments aimed at minimizing microplastic release and assessing algae growth on the substrates.
Several types of substrates were developed and evaluated through numerical simulations to determine their capacity and resistance to mechanical stress. The validated designs were then used to create moulds for producing each reef component, including anchor modules, buoys, and algae growth substrates.
The potential for developing biopolymer substrates that integrate algae residues was also explored, to enhance the affinity for algae and sequester previously captured CO2. Different biopolymers were tested, and samples were selected based on their degradation capabilities in lab conditions, although further long-term biodegradation studies are needed.
Finally, the reef components were produced, and algae were cultivated on the substrates in the lab before being placed in the ocean for testing. After two months, the cultivated algae remained alive and stable, with new green microorganisms appearing on the substrates, indicating that the ecosystem had accepted the artificial reef. The life cycle assessment (LCA) showed that, despite the initial environmental footprint from energy use during the transformation processes, the footprint becomes negative after two usage cycles, demonstrating the project''s overall environmental sustainability.
The main results obtained from this project were the valorization of fishing net waste through recycling, allowing its reprocessing into substrates for algae cultivation, production of biodegradable substrates for algae cultivation aimed at carbon sequestration. There were also the development of systems for ocean floor applications, including an artificial reef as an anchor and a buoy that will support the substrates for algae growth. Finally the Algae cultivation system designed for "reforestation" of the ocean floor, with the capability to serve as a habitat for the development and proliferation of other species.
The main beneficiaries and goals are the increase of the competitiveness of Portuguese companies in the area of blue growth, support resource efficiency in companies in the maritime sector and strengthen cooperation on marine and maritime issues.
Summary of bilateral results
ReSource, based in Iceland, as an international partner, contributed with its expertise in mapping key oceanic areas where there is significant deposition of plastic products. Their involvement facilitated a more refined definition of requirements due to their extensive knowledge in this field. Additionally, ReSource made a substantial contribution to studying treatments and recycling processes, specifically addressing the handling of plastic waste, particularly from marine sources.