FOOT
Original functionalisation of tannins for innovative bio‑sourced molecules and materials
Context
Aromatic derivatives derived from petrochemistry, though widely used across numerous industries, are increasingly being called into question due to their toxicity, environmental persistence, and deleterious effects on human health. In contrast, natural polyphenolic compounds such as tannins—present in the human diet for millennia—are attracting growing interest for their safety and environmental compatibility. Extracted from plants, tannins are abundant, renewable resources rich in reactive chemical functionalities. Their phenolic structure makes them a promising alternative to petroleum‑based compounds in the formulation of materials and fine chemicals. This research theme is part of the broader movement toward green substitution, driven by evolving European regulations and societal expectations regarding safety and sustainability. It intersects the fields of materials chemistry, fine chemistry, and biotechnology. By integrating eco‑design principles, it contributes to rethinking chemical processes in support of a more environmentally respectful industry.
Objectives
The FOOT project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of environmentally low‑impact synthesis of modified tannins, pursuing two original functionalisation pathways.
Expected results
These modifications will enable the production of bio‑sourced molecules and materials with interesting functional properties. The project leverages two distinct transfert strategies: (i) enhancing existing functional attributes to serve current markets, and (ii) creating dedicated molecules that broaden the application scope of tannins into novel sectors.
Target markets
Industrial sectors: flame‑retardant additives, surfactants, chelating agents, prepolymers and monomers for polyesters, and functional additives (such as texturants, plasticisers, gelling agents and flocculants).
Type of transfert planned
Licensing of processes or research collaborations with private partners to co‑develop a product for a targeted market.
Involved components
- UMR 1208 IATE
- UMR 5253 ICGM (Carnot Chimie Balard Cirimat)