HORIZON‑CL6‑2026‑01‑CIRCBIO‑07: Advancing the European bio‑based innovation enabled by biotechnology and biomanufacturing concepts

Under the topic HORIZON‑CL6‑2026‑01‑CIRCBIO‑07: Advancing the European bio‑based innovation enabled by biotechnology and biomanufacturing concepts, the University of Murcia is developing an innovative technology based on magnetic micromotors coated with agricultural residues. These micromotors actively capture microplastics in aqueous environments, propelled by solar‑powered UV light or ultrasounds, and can be easily retrieved using magnetic fields.

Once collected, the microplastics are transformed through electrochemical processes into high‑value acids (e.g. carboxylic or terephthalic acids), which can be reintegrated into bio‑based and circular value chains. A pilot at TRL 5 will be built to validate the technology in real water systems.

To broaden the impact, the project seeks collaboration with a biofoundry partner capable of integrating synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and automated microbial/enzymatic optimization. This will demonstrate that the micromotor technology is not limited to electrochemical valorisation, but can also serve as a versatile platform for biological degradation and environmental biomanufacturing solutions, reinforcing its alignment with European circular bioeconomy goals.

What We Are Looking For

We already have a core consortium and are seeking additional partners in:

• Biofoundry / synthetic biology / metabolic engineering To develop complementary enzymatic and microbial degradation pathways.

• Automated optimisation of enzymes and microorganisms High‑throughput screening, directed evolution, robotic optimisation.

• Digital integration (AI, bioinformatics, IoT sensors) For monitoring water conditions, micromotor performance and system optimisation.

• SSH & gender (SME or NGO) To address public acceptance, gender equality, societal impact and stakeholder engagement.

• Industrial actors (advisory role) Chemical, bio‑based or materials industries to guide market relevance, valorisation and industrial symbiosis.

• Water‑treatment SME or plant Not to host the pilot, but to provide real water matrices and technical advisory on operational conditions.