Syensqo's Laboratory of the Future Celebrates 20 Years of Innovation in Bordeaux
Key Ideas
- Syensqo's Laboratory of the Future in Bordeaux, France, marking its 20th anniversary, has been a key player in scientific and technological innovation, focusing on physical chemistry and robotics.
- The lab, with over 80 researchers, has contributed to advancements like biodegradable formulations and supports projects like the Climate Impulse green hydrogen-powered aeroplane.
- Climate Impulse, led by Bertrand Piccard and partnered with Syensqo, aims to circumnavigate the globe in a hydrogen plane, emphasizing sustainable innovation and reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint.
- The project represents a human, technological, and ecological adventure, showcasing the potential of green hydrogen technology and innovative solutions in addressing climate challenges.
Syensqo, a Belgian chemical company and Solvay spin-off, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Laboratory of the Future (LOF) in Bordeaux, France. Established in 2004 in collaboration with CNRS and the University of Bordeaux, the lab has been instrumental in driving scientific and technological innovation, particularly in physical chemistry and robotics. With a team of over 80 researchers, the LOF utilizes AI, automation, and miniaturization to foster innovation in various sectors such as agrifood, automotive, healthcare, and electronics. It has made significant contributions like developing biodegradable formulations and new-generation battery materials, and it actively supports projects like the Climate Impulse green hydrogen-powered aeroplane.
The director of the lab, Thomas Clérico, highlights the commitment to sustainable innovation and addressing societal challenges. The LOF has facilitated breakthrough innovations like a chemical-enhanced oil recovery service and has a strong presence in academic contributions, including defended theses and publications in peer-reviewed journals. Syensqo's broader innovation network spans 12 research centers worldwide, with France hosting three major centers and 500 researchers, showcasing the country's significance in the company's research endeavors.
Climate Impulse, spearheaded by Swiss pilot Bertrand Piccard, aims to fly the first hydrogen plane non-stop around the world in 2028. Partnering with Syensqo, the project focuses on creating custom technologies to achieve this emission-free circumnavigation. The venture represents an ecological, human, and technological adventure, addressing the aviation industry's carbon footprint by showcasing innovative solutions through green hydrogen technology. By demonstrating the feasibility of a round-the-world flight on a hydrogen-powered aircraft, Climate Impulse aims to revolutionize the aviation and mobility sectors, sending a strong message about sustainability and innovation. The project aligns with Syensqo's mission of using science to advance humanity and contributes to building a cleaner and more efficient world.