BIOSTORE

Biostore is a multidisciplinary project to develop sustainable batteries, led by the University of Münster in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Society and the Helmholtz Association. It is funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia with almost €2.7 million. The aim of the project is to use recyclable biological and bio-based materials and additives in battery production to replace fossil materials and reduce the negative impact on the environment. This is in line with the principles of the bio-economy and circular economy.

The project involves various disciplines such as biology, chemistry, battery research, political and social sciences and economics. One focus is the research and modification of bacterial exopolysaccharides, natural rubber and other biopolymers for use in lithium-ion batteries. These materials will serve as sustainable alternatives in electrodes and separator membranes. Their properties will be adapted and optimized through genetic and chemical modifications. Another key element of the project is life cycle assessment, which will be used to evaluate the sustainability of the materials and processes developed. In addition, the political and social dimension of technology development will be taken into account in order to promote social acceptance.

The interdisciplinary team, led by Prof. Dr. Jochen Schmid from the Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, includes Prof. Dr. Doris Fuchs, Prof. Dr. Antonia Graf, Prof. Dr. Thomas Dietz, Prof. Dr. Jens Leker, Prof. Dr. Dirk Prüfer and Prof. Dr. Martin Winter. Together, they and their respective team are working to replace fossil materials with bio-based and recyclable alternatives, and to extend the research results to other industries such as textiles, plastics and construction. The project aims not only to improve the environmental compatibility of batteries, but also to help establish a new research profile at the University of Münster and create a strong network for the interdisciplinary development of new, sustainable materials.