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AMIBM: a decade of cross-border research: from project to institute

Ten years ago, an ambitious vision took shape: the Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM), a European, cross-border centre of expertise determined to revolutionise how we approach materials, sustainability, and innovation. Romano Orrù, Scientific Director of AMIBM, reflects with pride: “What matters most to me is that, over the past decade, we have established a robust and respected research institute. On one hand, we maintain strong ties with industry here at the Chemelot site and beyond, while on the other, we integrate education and research within Maastricht University.”

A cross-border institute with impact

AMIBM stands out not only as a Dutch institution but also as a German one. Collaboration with RWTH and the Fraunhofer IME, both in Aachen, is pivotal for the institute. What began as a project has now evolved into a permanent, institutionalised collaboration. Recently, AMIBM was fully embedded as a research institute within Maastricht University’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, with RWTH remaining a steadfast partner.

Businesses, both large and small, are increasingly turning to the institute. “Within the Chemelot ecosystem, we play a key role as a catalyst,” Orrù explains. “We don’t immediately deliver market-ready products, but we help companies tackle fundamental scientific challenges. That’s where our strength and added value lie.”

The institute’s impact has already led to several spin-offs and startups, such as EGGXPERT, which transforms eggshell waste into functional minerals and proteins, and B4Plastics, which develops renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials for diverse applications. These companies provide sustainable solutions for industrial bio-waste streams and recycling. “Our presence also attracts external businesses to establish themselves at Chemelot,” Orrù adds.

Education and collaboration: the keys to success

For a decade, AMIBM has played a significant role in several bachelor’s and master’s programmes at Maastricht University, with the Master’s in Biobased Materials being the most closely aligned. “We are involved in multiple educational programmes,” Orrù clarifies. “We apply our expertise broadly across education, and that’s exactly what we aim for: ensuring our knowledge and experience reach wherever they are needed.”

Romano Orru in a lab
Romano Orrù

Collaboration with industry and other knowledge institutions is essential. AMIBM secures between €3 and €4 million in external funding annually through European and regional projects. “We participate in numerous regional initiatives, such as Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland and Maas-Rijn programmes, as well as larger European programmes like Horizon Europe, including Marie Curie doctoral networks,” Orrù notes. “This is no small feat. It demonstrates our relevance not just locally, but internationally.”

Prospects: challenges and opportunities

The future of AMIBM looks bright, though challenges remain. Orrù cites political volatility and competition from low-cost plastics from Asia as external factors beyond the institute’s control. “Our greatest challenge is to develop our scientific innovations far enough to penetrate the market,” he says. “We must ensure our discoveries make a real impact without compromising scientific excellence.”

A future full of promise

Over the past decade, AMIBM has proven that cross-border collaboration, scientific ingenuity, and practical application can go hand in hand. “We will continue to grow, potentially reaching 200 employees in another ten years. Above all, we will remain a driving force in the transition to a circular, biobased economy. Ten years is a significant milestone, and I want to thank everyone for their dedication,” Orrù concludes.

Brightlands Chemelot Campus
The Centre Court Building at the Chemlot Campus, home of AMIBM.

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