Innovation
Innovation as a Structural Value
At ECO-ZINDER, innovation means building a more efficient, safer and truly sustainable future. Our technologies continuously evolve, integrating bioprocesses, advanced analytical tools and optimised plants to transform complex industrial residues into valuable resources.
Research and Development
Research & Development is a strategic pillar of the company. Every day, our laboratories and dedicated innovation areas work to enhance expertise in the treatment of industrial residues, optimise chemical processes and develop increasingly sustainable solutions.
The R&D works in close synergy with all company departments to deliver projects that anticipate market needs and address emerging global challenges, such as decarbonisation.
Technology and Sustainability
What truly makes us competitive is our ability to combine applied research with sustainable development. Over the years, we have expanded the range of recoverable residues, processing increasingly low-grade fractions and complex materials that were previously not even treatable.
This achievement has been made possible through continuous commitment and structural investments: on average, each year we allocate between 20% and 25% of our turnover to the development of new technologies and production processes. This commitment enables us to ensure continuity, quality and advanced solutions in a rapidly evolving sector.
Circular Economy
Circular economy, sustainability and green chemistry are the core values underlying our R&D activities.
Since 2014, ECO-ZINDER has further expanded its scope by launching its first BIO trials and actively collaborating with leading research institutes and universities. This journey has strengthened our role in sustainable chemistry and in the advanced valorisation of resources.
The technologies on which our main innovation projects are based include:
- Bioleaching
- Biosorption
- Fermentation processes
- Electrochemistry
Research & Innovation Projects
MetalBioRec
Project funded under the POR FESR 2007–2013 programme – MIUR and the Lombardy Region.
Development of microorganism-based technologies for the removal and recovery of heavy metals from wastewater generated by the electroplating industry.
365 – Biotechnological Process for Organic Salts
Project funded under the 2014 Research Call, Measure C.
Biotechnological production of organic zinc and/or iron salts, intended for valorisation as additives and supplements.
R.E.Fe – Electrochemical Fermentations
Project funded under INNODRIVER-S3 2017 (POR FESR 2014–2020).
Innovative electrochemical processes to obtain organic copper salts through fermentation.
MOA – New Molecules from Inorganic and Organic Waste
Project focused on the generation of new molecules through the valorisation of complex residues.
AIA – Fine Chemicals from Biomass
Development pathway dedicated to the production of active ingredients and high value-added compounds derived from biomass.
Each project follows a complex development pathway, carried out in collaboration with prestigious scientific institutions:
University of Milan (Statale), University of Milano-Bicocca, University of Florence, National Research Council (CNR), Italbiotec Consortium, Spallanzani Institute.
Collaborations and Scientific Network
The commitment to acting as a partner in the development of eco-sustainable processes is what has led ECO-ZINDER to join major networks in advanced chemistry and innovation:
- Italbiotec Consortium
- Lombardy Green Chemistry Association
We take part in technical committees and industry working groups:
- ChemTech Scientific and Technical Committee
- LGCA Cluster Working Group
- SNPA permanent working groups – RemTech Expo
ECO-ZINDER is also a member of:
- ENFEMA
- Assolombarda