Transform waste streams into biodegradable alternatives

Longer description of your proposed project

Our approach involves tackling plastic pollution by valorizing waste streams one industry at a time, gradually building our capacity to replace plastic entirely. At Fermentrix, we specialize in transforming organic waste into biodegradable and compostable alternative, particularly for single-use plastics, diverging from conventional petroleum-based plastics. Our flagship project centers on utilizing spent grain from beer brewing to produce sustainable packaging for breweries. This repurposing strategy aids breweries in achieving a closed-loop production, establishing a circular economy where waste is a valuable resource for eco-friendly packaging.

We are dedicated to extending our impact beyond the brewing sector and aim to forge partnerships with various industries, such as the coffee industry, to address their waste valorization needs. Our primary objective is to develop products that are environmentally sound and economically advantageous for businesses.

Describe why you think you're qualified to work on this

We are well-equipped for this endeavor due to our academic backgrounds, work experience, and our shared passion for making a positive impact on our planet and its environment. Zahné holds a BSc in Earth Sciences with an Honors degree in Environmental Geochemistry, along with an MSc in Marine and Lacustrine Sciences and Management. Leanne van Schalkwyk is a qualified industrial engineer with a master's degree in industrial engineering, specializing in process optimization.

Our academic qualifications provide us with a deep understanding of the scientific processes related to our product, including the technical aspects and the machinery involved in its production and scaling. Additionally, both co-founders have practical experience gained while working for a product development company. This experience has been invaluable in assessing the viability of ideas, demonstrating proof of value, and navigating the various stages of product development in terms of the technology readiness levels (TRLs), from concept to prototyping, iterative improvements, scaling up production, and ultimately bringing the product to market.

Other ways I can learn about you

Zahné’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zahnepienaar/

Leanne’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-van-schalkwyk-535656144/

How much money do you need?

$100 000 gives us a runway for a year to 18 months to develop the packaging from spent grain. This includes our salaries, prototyping equipment such as designing and building the equipment, aluminium moulds and consumables.

Links to any supporting documents or information

Estimate your probability of succeeding if you get the amount of money you asked for

Our definition of success entails the successful creation of prototypes that can be presented to potential clients and investors. Prototypes that fulfill their requirements in terms of moisture resistance and strength. These prototypes encompass paper, cardboard, and six-pack rings, all crafted from spent grain.

The likelihood of developing a product entirely composed of spent grain capable of holding six beers together stands at approximately 90%. Introducing a binder or resin to create the same product increases the probability to 95%, but this adjustment may raise production costs and extend the product's biodegradation period.

The probability of producing spent grain paper with added recycled paper for enhanced strength is a guaranteed 100%. Furthermore, we have secured six preliminary off-take agreements with breweries, expressing their interest in the product—either the six-pack rings or cardboard boxes—once the prototypes are finalized.