What is FunCell and Its Breakthrough Innovation?
FunCell, short for “Functionalization for Cellulosic materials,” is a French company based in Grenoble, France. It’s built on a breakthrough innovation developed by a leading-edge academic lab, CNRS, right in Grenoble. This innovation is the fruit of years of award-winning fundamental research, now taken to the next level by FunCell. The company specializes in biobased additives designed to enhance any cellulosic material—think paper, carton boards, nonwovens, and textiles. Their technology mimics what nature does in plants, extracting a polymer from biomass that naturally strengthens cellulosic materials. Then, through a green chemistry process, they tweak this polymer to boost its performance even further. Pretty cool, right?
Main Benefits of FunCell’s Biobased Additives
FunCell’s additives bring a fresh wave of innovation to the paper and related industries. Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes their products stand out:
- BioWet: Enhances both dry and wet mechanical performances of cellulosic materials.
- BioGraft: Adds functionalization and barrier properties, giving materials new capabilities.
- Eco-friendly solutions that align with sustainable development goals.
- Recognition through awards, like the 2024 Pierre Potier Award for BioWet.
- Technology rooted in nature-inspired polymers extracted from biomass.
- Based in a region with a rich paper ecosystem heritage, keeping the industry’s spirit alive.
FunCell’s Roots in a Thriving Paper Ecosystem
Located in a region once known as the heart of the paper industry, FunCell is a living proof that the paper ecosystem there is still very much alive. Even though the traditional paper industry has largely vanished, the ecosystem supporting it remains vibrant. FunCell taps into this legacy, combining cutting-edge science with the region’s deep expertise. This unique positioning helps the company push forward innovations that serve large, global customers looking for sustainable and high-performance solutions.
How Nature Inspires FunCell’s Technology
FunCell’s approach is all about mimicking nature. Plants naturally use certain polymers to give strength to their cellulosic structures. FunCell extracts these polymers from biomass and then enhances them through a green chemistry process. This method not only respects the environment but also improves the polymer’s ability to reinforce paper and other cellulosic materials. It’s a smart way to bring nature’s own design principles into industrial applications, creating additives that are both effective and eco-friendly.
Participation in Industry Events and Recognition
FunCell is actively participating in industry events to showcase its innovations. For example, the company will be present at Tech&Fest, a trade show celebrating innovation, held on February 5 & 6, 2025, at Alpexpo in Grenoble. This kind of engagement helps FunCell connect with industry leaders and potential partners. Plus, their BioWet additive recently won a medal at the 2024 Pierre Potier Awards, which honor chemical companies making innovative contributions to sustainable development. These milestones highlight FunCell’s growing reputation as a pioneer in biobased additives.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Driving innovation in materials science.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting eco-friendly additives and green chemistry.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Reducing environmental impact through sustainable material solutions.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting sustainable use of biomass and natural resources.
Looking Ahead: FunCell’s Ambition and Vision
FunCell aims to serve large and global customers by continuing to develop its next-generation additives for cellulosic materials. The company’s ambition is to expand the use of its eco-friendly, high-performance solutions worldwide. By combining nature-inspired technology with green chemistry, FunCell is setting the stage for a more sustainable future in the paper, board, and nonwoven industries. It’s a story of innovation, heritage, and a commitment to making materials better—one polymer at a time.
