Partners · Research
Biomass research and extraction development
We invite laboratories to work with us on diatom biomass. The aim is to measure its fucoxanthin content, compare extraction methods and study the stability of the resulting material. We will draw up the programme with the intended application in mind.
Who we are looking for
Laboratories and technology teams that can help link biomass cultivation with its composition, processing and performance in a chosen application. We prefer a lead partner responsible for the whole programme; specialised work can be done by several agreed laboratories.
Our contribution
Information on the culture's origin and cultivation history, cultivation and a log of conditions, batches prepared to the programme, contact with buyers and product requirements. Sample quantity and form are set before work begins.
Partner’s contribution
A sample preparation and analysis plan, extraction development, a fucoxanthin balance — how much was in the raw material, how much ended up in the extract and how much remained in other fractions — stability, the model experiments required and a report with raw data. Missing methods and equipment are identified in advance as a separate order.
Tasks we propose
- 01
Determine the composition of the starting biomass and its fucoxanthin content with a method suited to this matrix. Record moisture, sample preparation, standard, units and measurement uncertainty.
- 02
Compare preparation and extraction methods, assess preservation of the target compound and reproducibility of the process. Keep separate the total extract yield, its fucoxanthin content and the share of fucoxanthin recovered from the starting biomass.
- 03
Study stability under agreed storage and packaging conditions. For the chosen application, define the impurity and safety checks required.
- 04
Run justified model experiments on the material's properties: one primary endpoint, appropriate controls and a concentration range. Account for interference a coloured extract may cause in the measurement.
- 05
Assess the value of other fractions and of the residue after extraction, where the composition and the buyer's request justify it.
First-stage outcome
- A protocol and results for identified samples
- Raw data and a mass and fucoxanthin balance
- Results of initial stability tests under the stated conditions, and preliminary costs
- A decision on repeat batches, process changes or closing the line of work
The safety of the final product is assessed in a separate programme.
Terms of cooperation
The format may include paid stages, a joint product or preparing a joint project for a support programme. Specific obligations, rights and budget are agreed before work starts.
Agreed in advance
- Cost of stages and acceptance procedure
- Access to raw data
- Rights to existing and new results
- Use of samples, confidentiality and publication procedure
Frequently asked questions
- What is needed for a first enquiry?
- A brief description without confidential materials: organisation and contact, available methods and equipment, experience with biomass and extracts, tasks your team is ready to take on, sample requirements and an indicative timeline.
- Who owns the results?
- Rights to existing and new results, data access and publication procedure are set out in the contract before work starts.
- Can I propose my own culture?
- Yes. Scientists with their own cultures and technologies can join our development programme, combining continued research, pilot batches and participation in the income from a future product. Explore our programme for scientists
Next step
Discuss a partnership
Tell us about your task and how you might be involved. After we talk, we will prepare a proposal for the first stage and its cost.
Or write to info@laboratory17.ru
We begin with an online meeting to discuss your requirements. Sample availability, delivery and payment arrangements are confirmed for each project.