BIO-2-PRINT Project Advanced Bio-Based 3D Materials
The international consortium has reached new milestones in testing 3D-printed samples made from inner bark composites.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Biotech
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The BIO-2-PRINT project has successfully produced and tested 3D-printed samples using composites derived from inner bark. This initiative aims to repurpose local industrial side streams for additive manufacturing.
Why it matters
The project addresses the need for sustainable material sourcing by reducing reliance on virgin raw materials through the creation of new regional value chains. It leverages underused fibers found within the Northern Periphery and Arctic region to support greener manufacturing.
The project utilizes six partners from Finland, Sweden, and Ireland to identify feedstock materials. Researchers are actively testing composite formulations that combine natural fibers with polymers or concrete for 3D printing.
The players
BIO-2-PRINT
This is an international research project funded by the Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme to advance bio-based 3D printing.
Innomost
This organization specializes in a technology that transforms Nordic birch bark into sustainable, bio-based raw materials.
The details
By transforming materials like Nordic birch bark—a process currently utilized by Innomost—the project seeks to integrate natural fibers into additive manufacturing processes. The consortium recently convened to review progress on these composite materials and ongoing stakeholder mapping efforts.
Timeline
The project officially launched in March 2025.
A partner meeting and webinar were held during the week of October 1, 2026.
The project is scheduled to conclude in February 2028.
The Big Picture
This research is conducted under the Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme, which fosters regional innovation through cross-border cooperation. The project extends the reach of this program by proving that industrial side streams can serve as viable inputs for high-tech manufacturing.
The development of bark-based composites could eventually lead to more affordable and sustainable 3D printing filaments for industrial and consumer use. By creating local value chains, the initiative aims to reduce the environmental and financial costs associated with importing raw materials.
The takeaway
The use of industrial waste products like birch bark represents a significant shift toward circular manufacturing in the tech sector. This research demonstrates how localized raw materials can replace traditional plastics in emerging 3D printing applications.
What happens next
Future project stages will transition from laboratory testing to pilot-scale 3D printing and public demonstrations, with the project slated to end in February 2028.
Further reading
For more information on innovations in sustainable material science, visit the Biotech section.
More information
Review project updates and research findings on the BIO-2-PRINT project website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Renewable Carbon News.
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