Two independent research groups at the University of Graz contribute to the RADAR project, bringing unique expertise to drive and assess innovation in the bio-based economy. The Barta group and its spin-off company, Puresurf, are focused on creating fully bio-based surfactants. Their goal is to integrate lignocellulose-derived building blocks in order to develop scalable, sustainable high performance surfactants. Embracing the natural complexity of renewable resources such as lignin, their work is grounded in the principles of safe and sustainable by design. Meanwhile, the Stern group is evaluating the broader environmental and socio-economic impacts of replacing conventional chemicals in all three RADAR products: surfactants, flame retardants, and epoxy resins. Their research explores market diffusion, value chain transformation and the market feasibility of these innovations. By identifying opportunities and challenges alike, they seek to demonstrate the practical and economic feasibility of lignin-derived chemicals.
