Prof. Dr. Volker C. Hass (right) is conducting research in the ModePro_Bio project on new processes for sustainable solutions in the bioeconomy.
Model-based process design - MoDe_ProBio project focuses on digital twins and AI for a sustainable future
The bioeconomy of the future requires efficient and sustainable processes for utilising biogenic raw materials and waste. This is precisely where the research project ‘MoDe_ProBio – Model-based Design of Processes for the Bioeconomy’ comes in − through the use of digital twins and artificial intelligence (AI), new biochemical processes are to be developed more quickly, in a more resource-efficient manner and with greater marketability. The joint project is being carried out by Furtwangen University (HFU) in collaboration with the universities of Offenburg, Biberach and Heilbronn, as well as various industry partners. It is coordinated by Furtwangen University.
AI and digital twins − the key to process optimisation
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Volker C. Hass, project manager and expert in the optimisation of biotechnical processes, explains, ‘The bioeconomy needs innovative approaches to produce usable products from complex biogenic raw materials. With digital twins that virtually replicate real plants, we can significantly reduce the development time and effort required for new resource-saving processes.’
Artificial intelligence is also being used to drive forward process optimisation. ‘What used to be done by humans is now happening at a faster pace with the help of AI,’ says Hass. The combination of digital twins, model-based experimental design, life cycle assessment and economic marketing concepts is ideal for making biotechnological processes more environmentally friendly and efficient. AI helps to analyse current process flows and intelligently evaluate how they can be further optimised. A key feature of the MoDe_ProBio joint project is that life cycle assessments are carried out before new processes are introduced and established in order to evaluate their sustainability at an early stage and improve them during the development phase.
One example from the project is the cultivation of the bacterium E. coli for the production of PETases – enzymes that break down PET plastics and can thus contribute to the circular economy. ‘And we can do spectacular things with purple bacteria too!’ Hass reports enthusiastically.
Science communication and social dialogue
In addition to technological development, the researchers are keen to engage in dialogue with the public. They want to find out what people think about this type of research, what concerns they have and what would help to make the complex research and its results easier to understand. Knowledge transfer is an essential part of the project.
Sustainability for industry
The methods and technologies developed in MoDe_ProBio could serve as a model for the entire circular economy. They offer potential for reducing the carbon footprint, lowering energy consumption and achieving independence from fragile supply chains. In this way, innovative research could trigger positive changes towards greater sustainability not only in the academic world, but also in industry. ‘Our strategies enable faster and more resource-efficient development of processes for producing cellulases, biohydrogen, specialty chemicals or biogas from waste materials,’ explains Prof. Hass. Together with industry partners, the teams at Heilbronn University and Furtwangen University are working on strategies and sustainable business models to make digital twins available as products for industry.
Research-based teaching and sustainable education
Hass is a strong advocate of research-based teaching and would like to integrate the knowledge gained from MoDe_ProBio into a new master's programme in sustainability. Students will investigate how simple processes can be mapped using a digital twin in order to reduce the need for experiments and thus minimise the ecological footprint. Targeted experiments will be conducted to determine the extent to which experiments can be replaced by simulation in order to conserve resources.
Joint project with a strong partner network
MoDe_ProBio is an interdisciplinary joint project supported by close cooperation between academia and industry. The project partners are working together on the question of how biological and chemical processes can be optimised in such a way that they make a real contribution to sustainability.
More than 25 years ago, Prof. Dr. Volker Hass made the optimisation of biotechnological processes his core topic. Since then, he has been researching ways to combine technological innovations with ecological responsibility. His goal − to take the bioeconomy to a new level and develop sustainable solutions for the challenges of our time.
