Delft’s Foamlab Secures €3 Million Funding to Revolutionize Plastics Industry with Bacterial Cellulose Foams

Foamlab, a pioneering startup based in Delft, is on a mission to revolutionize the plastics industry by introducing high-performance foams made from bacterial cellulose as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based materials. Recently, the company secured €3 million in growth capital to establish a pilot plant, expand production capacity, and expedite the commercialization of its biobased foam products.

The funding round was led by ICOS Capital, with support from Value Factory Ventures, DOEN Ventures, Capricorn Industrial Biotech Fund, and TTT Green Tech managed by SHIFT Invest. Jeroen van Rotterdam, the CEO of Foamlab, expressed gratitude for the strong backing from impact investors and emphasized the increasing demand for their bacterial nanocellulose foams across various industries.

Foamlab was founded in 2024 by Professor Elvin Karana and Jeroen van Rotterdam, with a vision to harness microorganisms for the creation of lightweight, durable, and fully compostable bio-based foams. The ultimate goal is to replace conventional oil- and mineral-based foams in sectors such as construction, furniture, fashion, and packaging.

Originating from research conducted at the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering at Delft University of Technology, Foamlab specializes in developing sustainable foams made from bacterial cellulose, a renewable material produced through fermentation. These innovative foams offer a sustainable alternative, being bio-based, compostable, and customizable to cater to various applications ranging from soft, textile-like materials to rigid structural solutions.

One of the key distinguishing factors of Foamlab is its ability to control the structure at the nanoscale through microbial biofabrication. This precision enables the fine-tuning of mechanical, acoustic, and aesthetic properties while maintaining biodegradability and eco-friendly production processes.

Peter van Gelderen, Managing Partner at ICOS Capital, commended Foamlab for their robust production technology for bacterial nanocellulose foam, providing sustainable alternatives for fossil-based materials in construction insulation, high-end packaging, and fashion. This innovative approach addresses a significant materials transition with a scalable and environmentally friendly solution.

In conclusion, Foamlab’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and environmental impact through the development of bio-based foams showcases a promising future for the industry. With strong investor support and cutting-edge technology, the company is poised to lead the way in the transition towards more sustainable material solutions.