Accelerating biopolymer innovation: a pilot dataset and model for bio-based polymer solubility prediction

Project partners: University of Cambridge & Green Rose Chemistry

Project focus area: The development of novel synthetic biology tools and technologies

This project developed a structured dataset and screening framework to better understand the solubility behaviour of natural and bio-derived polymers in organic solvents. Natural polymers such as polysaccharides and modified biopolymers are increasingly used in sustainable materials, pharmaceuticals, coatings, and personal care formulations. However, predicting their solubility and processing behaviour remains challenging due to their structural complexity and the limited availability of systematic experimental data.

Working in collaboration with GreenRoseChemistry and with input from industrial partners at IFF, the project focused on generating experimentally validated solubility observations for a range of natural polymers across multiple solvent systems. The resulting dataset captures a spectrum of solvation behaviours, including dissolution, swelling, and dispersion, providing a more nuanced understanding of polymer–solvent interactions than simple soluble/insoluble classifications.

The project outcomes include a curated dataset that can support the development of predictive models for polymer solubility and solvent compatibility. These tools can accelerate formulation design and materials development by reducing reliance on trial-and-error experimentation.

By improving the ability to predict and screen solvent systems for natural polymers, the work contributes to more efficient use of sustainable materials and supports the development of greener chemical processes and formulations.

For more information

For more information on this project, contact us, or view all Engineering Biology SPARK Award winners.

This project funding is part of the Engineering Biology Innovation Network, led by Innovate UK Business Connect in collaboration with Innovate UK and UKRI’s Technology Mission Fund. The network’s goal is to progress innovations, create a commercially focused community and foster new consortia to advance innovations towards commercial applications.