An evening under the motto ‘Bio-inspired chemistry’

1.12.2025 |

As part of the BITZ OPEN series of events, the Bavarian Innovation and Transformation Centre (BITZ) at the Deggendorf Institute of Technology (DIT) in Oberschneiding welcomed Dr. Michael Richter from Fraunhofer IGB – Straubing site as keynote speaker on 13 November. His lecture on ‘Bio-inspired Chemistry’ attracted a large and very interested audience and also marked the start of a potential, promising collaboration between the Lower Bavarian institutions.

Dr. Richter presented the innovative approach of bio-inspired chemistry, which promises a fundamental shift towards more sustainable products. This approach differs fundamentally from the synthesis of fossil-based products. At its core, it involves searching for exclusive molecules in nature and integrating them functionally into chemicals and materials as bio-based building blocks in order to create products with a significant functional advantage.

In his presentation, Dr. Richter discussed the development of innovative polyamides from natural terpenes (the main components of essential oils). He also presented novel approaches to the use of proteins for sustainable adhesive systems, using chicken feathers as an example. In the publication ‘An environmentally friendly process for the specific decomposition of chicken feather keratin into polythiol building blocks’, Dr. Richter's research group describes the ‘green’ methodology behind this process.

Finally, the potential of bioelectrocatalysis and its contribution to alternative concepts of electricity-driven enzymatic fine chemical synthesis was discussed.

The event made it clear that there are considerable overlaps and synergies between the neighbouring Lower Bavarian institutions. ‘Both institutions bring solution and acceleration expertise as well as an agile start-up mindset to the table,’ emphasise the hosts. This combined strength opens up the potential to become even more powerful – especially in diverse collaborations with regional companies. The aim is to deepen this cooperation in the near future.

The lively interest in the event confirmed the relevance of the topic: in view of the current challenges in Europe, green chemistry and sustainability are key factors that must also be considered in the context of resilience, sovereignty and security.

Bild (DIT): Prof. Dr. Jeff Wilkesmann (left) from BITZ Oberschneiding and speaker Dr. Michael Richter (right) at BITZ OPEN.