New research project for sustainable packaging and electronics

At the core of AIM-PACE is the development of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). These are bio-based plastics produced using microorganisms. By combining artificial intelligence, microbial technology, computational modelling and polymer science, existing PHAs are to be further developed into materials with new combinations of properties. These include improved toughness, processability, barrier performance and electrical properties.

The new materials are intended to address two key challenges in particular: the replacement of multi-layer fossil-based packaging and the reduction of highly additivated plastics (containing numerous additives) in wearable electronics. In this way, plastic and electronic waste are to be reduced at source. The Bayreuth researchers led by Prof. Dr. Christopher Künneth, Computational Materials Science at the University of Bayreuth, are responsible for key tasks in the project, including the development and training of an AI platform, materials modelling, and data collection and curation.

At the same time, the project addresses sustainability goals across the entire value chain: at least 80% of raw materials will be derived from agricultural residues and industrial side streams. Furthermore, greenhouse gas emissions over the full life cycle are to be reduced by 30–50%, alongside reductions in energy and water consumption.

Another key focus lies in the close involvement of stakeholders along the value chain, including industry, the recycling sector, waste management and policymakers. The aim is to take regulatory requirements into account at an early stage and to accelerate market uptake. The strategic importance of AIM-PACE has already been recognised during the selection process: in a competitive evaluation by an international panel of experts, the project was awarded the STEP Seal. This recognises AIM-PACE as a high-quality initiative that makes a significant contribution to the technological objectives of the “Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform” (STEP).

“With AIM-PACE, we are combining AI and materials science to design plastics as bio-based from the ground up. Our goal is to develop high-performance materials that not only replace fossil-based alternatives but are consistently designed for circularity,” says Künneth.