Biome Technologies, a UK-based developer of highly functional, naturally based plastics, has received a grant funding of GBP 282,000 (~USD 336,000) from Innovate UK, the UK's government innovation agency.

The funds will be used to scale the production of Biome Technologies’ novel biopolymer, which is based on a new bio-based chemical furan dicarboxylic acid (FDCA), from laboratory-level small quantities to industrial use amounts. These polymers are used in flexible natural plastic packaging and coating industries.

This novel biopolymer was developed in partnership with the University of Nottingham and the company will collaborate with Thomas Swan, an independent chemical manufacturing company with a global network, for the industrial-scale manufacturing process. The project has received a total funding of  GBP 474,000 (~USD 560,000).

Founded in 2010, Biome Technologies develops biodegradable natural polymers that replace and enhance products made from oil-based materials. The company has been conducting R&D on biodegradable polymers since 2013 collaborating with seven universities and around 30 leading scientists and engineers which has resulted in a range of products including BiomeHT , BioMesh , fibers, flexible films, coating, and lamination. All these polymers are subject to patent protection or application. Listed in the AIM (Alternative Investment Market), Biome Technologies was recognized in the Deloitte Technology Fast50 as the UK's second fastest-growing GreenTech business in 2010.