3D printing sounds like the perfect technology to produce complex objects as tailored single units; from machine components to implants for damaged tissue. By using the compostable biobased plastic PLA, this process also becomes sustainable. PLA, or poly(lactide), is synthesised from the natural monomer lactic acid. That sounds perfect, but such objects often retain their shape less well or are less strong mechanically, whilst design freedom is one of the strengths of 3D printing. Why is that?

The development of the biobased economy should go up a notch. Plastic soup, the essential CO2 reduction, scarcity of raw materials, but also more stringent legislation make it necessary to have a broad discussion about accelerating the greening of our society.

North Netherlands truly excels at green chemistry. The foundation of this is formed by an extensive ecosystem in which the knowledge institutes are making great strides. “We are not only training the professionals of the future, we are actively giving meaning to the biobased economy and the energy transition.”