Eco-designed materials for sustainable agriculture – LabCom MATIAIRE
MATIAIRE Joint Laboratory: A groundbreaking partnership between the CNRS, the University of Bordeaux (UBA), and TIMAC AGRO for the agriculture of the future
The MATIAIRE joint laboratory (Innovative Materials for Environmentally Friendly Agriculture), launched in March 2023, marks the first collaboration between the CNRS and an industrial partner in the agricultural sector. Jointly led by the CNRS, the University of Haute-Alsace (UHA), and TIMAC AGRO, a global leader in plant nutrition, this project is supported by Carnot MICA, which facilitated the partnership between the organizations.
The objective of this joint laboratory is clear: to design new, innovative, and eco-friendly materials capable of delivering active ingredients for plant and livestock nutrition, while minimizing environmental impact.
In a rapidly changing agricultural landscape—marked by raw material volatility, climate change, and environmental requirements—MATIAIRE aims to offer high-performance, sustainable alternatives that enable farmers to balance yield, quality, and environmental stewardship.
Collaborative research in the service of sustainability and performance
Over the next four years, some fifteen researchers and engineers from a variety of disciplines (agronomy, chemistry, physics, biology) will work on developing new materials to make agriculture more efficient and sustainable.
Carnot MICA, which has supported the project since its inception, plays a key role in scientific and technological coordination: it has identified TIMAC AGRO’s needs, mobilized the expertise of IS2M (Mulhouse Institute of Materials Science, CNRS/UHA), and supports the implementation of R&D monitoring tools.
Promote technology transfer and disseminate innovation in the field
Beyond scientific research, MATIAIRE promotes technology transfer between the academic and industrial sectors. Cross-disciplinary training programs and outreach workshops will enable researchers and farmers to share their knowledge and better integrate innovation into on-the-ground practices.
Through its support for this joint laboratory, Carnot MICA demonstrates its commitment to advancing the bioeconomy and supporting the transition toward sustainable, high-performance, and environmentally friendly agriculture.
