Workpackages.MINERVA adds value to existing sources of brown seaweeds and creates new processes to reduces waste in current low-value sectors. By developing new extraction methodologies and applying novel enzymes from unexplored marine sources isolated using omics approaches, purified algal extracts will be developed for high-end applications. MINERVA project addresses key societal challenges by developing concepts to enhance production of food ingredients for healthy application (seaweed fibres, new ingredients), developing cosmetics products, supporting aquaculture with new natural antifouling agents and developing new biomaterials
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The overarching aim of this WP is to deliver effective project management and compliance with the funding requirements to enable successful implementation of the workplan and to achieve maximum impact of the project.
The overall objectives of this work package are: (i) to identify commercially viable and sustainable sources of European seaweed biomass for valorisation within the European blue bioeconomy and (ii) to compile a roadmap on the potential for algal biorefineries geared towards specific sources of biomass and targeted applications.
WP3 aims to generate a collection of novel enzymes which can be used to hydrolyze the targeted brown macroalgae, thereby gaining access to novel ingredients contained within these macroalgae, with potential human health benefits. To achieve this the microbial diversity of the surface microbiota of the macroalgae Ascophyllum nodosum and Saccharina latissima and in particular the macroalgal polysaccharide-degrading (MAPD) bacteria will be exploited.
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The objective of this work package is to deliver a toolbox of extraction protocols for use with commercially interesting seaweeds (WP2) and to supply targeted extracts for evaluation in potential end-use applications (WP5–8). Specifically, the aim of this work package is to (i) optimised extraction methods; (ii) improved methods for separation of polyphenols and polysaccharides in brown seaweed; (iii) optimised seaweed extracts for evaluation in targeted food, cosmetics, industrial and biomedical application.
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WP objectives are: (i) to propose recommendations for future commercial exploitation of seaweed derived extracts and ingredients (WP 4) in food, specifically as new texture ingredients, antioxidants and antimicrobial/spoilage agents and (ii) to deliver industry-led training.
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The objective of this WP is to investigate the antifouling properties of algal extracts (WP4) for potential use in new paints and coatings, and to demonstrate the efficacy of selected formulations in a marine field setting.
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The overall objective of WP7 is to develop algal ingredients for cosmetics applications based on sustainably produced algal biomass. Bioassay guided screening of different algal extracts will be performed and potential extracts will be applied into cosmetics, by developing and testing of products containing these extracts and ingredients. Furthermore, the markets and consumers attitudes will be collected.
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Brown algal polysaccharides are an ideal class of materials for medical biomaterials: they are versatile, with physicochemical properties easily adapted and tuned for particular applications; but further research into their in medical applications is needed. The objective of this WP is therefore to evaluate the potential to use extracts generated in the project.
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The specific objective of this work package is the effective and impactful dissemination and communication of project outputs to relevant, diverse stakeholders in order to create scientific, social and commercial value whilst ensuring that RRI is upheld throughout the project.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 817992.
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