Project Lead: Dr Humbul Suleman.
Institution: Teesside University.
Partners: Zebec Biogas Ltd, Teesside University.
Amount: £ 54k
Scheme: Commercialising Innovation.
Theme/Area: Integration into End Use Sectors/Net Zero/Circular Economy Transition (eg. products, supply chain, end-users).
Brief Description: This project will advance CalyChar, a synergistic, functionalised biochar/hydrochar material. It passively captures and locks atmospheric CO2 in a stable carbonate-char matrix and is sustainably enhanced with natural amino acids and calcium/magnesium silicates. The project will move CalyChar from a lab-validated concept to a technology demonstration phase by developing a production-intent commercial prototype. This prototype will showcase real-world applications in agriculture and construction sectors, generate market demand, and optimise performance at pre-commercial scale/venture capital applications. Moreover, the project will perform a third-party carbon credit assessment, develop a minimum viable product and market fit, and define a robust business model for the spin-out.