Biotechnology can be key to reducing the environmental impact of strategic sectors such as aerospace. Within the framework of International Biotechnology Day, a consortium consisting of four innovative companies and led by the MAV cluster focuses on a specific example of how this discipline can lead the sustainable transformation of key industries: the 3D II PES project, an initiative that unites space technology and biotechnology to reduce the environmental impact of aerospace industry and foster research.

This project demonstrates how the development of green space propulsion systems through additive manufacturing opens new possibilities for biotechnological research under microgravity conditions, with direct applications in health, science and technology.

An environmental challenge that requires innovative solutions

The aerospace industry, despite its crucial role in scientific and technological progress, generates a significant environmental footprint. It is estimated that it represents about 2.4 % of the global CO₂ emissions, which could be doubled if other indirect climate effects are taken into account. With the growing activity of the spatial sector, it is imperative to promote cleaner and sustainable technologies.

3D II II Answer this challenge by developing more efficient and environmentally friendly propellants, which use green fuels instead of highly toxic substances such as hydrazine. This advance allows viable sustainable space missions aimed at biotechnological experimentation.

Space technology at the service of biotechnology

Microgravity offers unique conditions for the advancement of biotechnology: crystallization of compounds, optimized cell growth, and new pharmaceutical research avenues, among others. In order to make these research possible, it is essential to have advanced space vehicles, capable of orbiting and back safely to Earth.

3D weight II promotes the development of orbital propulsion systems made of advanced materials and metal 3D printing technologies, which allow to create versatile, precise and adaptable solutions to different types of mission.

A pioneering consortium with intersectoral vision

The project is led by a consortium formed by the MAV cluster, Pangea Aerospace, Aenium, Orbital Paradigm and Asebio, entities that provide complementary experience in the fields of aerospace engineering, advanced materials and biotechnology.

In the last call for the AEI 2024 support program of the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, Pes 3D II was recognized as one of the best projects presented: it reached sixth place among more than 300 initiatives, with a budget of 280,717 euros and a subsidy of 224,571 euros.

Biotechnology to lead the green transition

The Pes 3D II project represents a new way of innovating: connecting disciplines, uniting sectors and generating impact beyond the laboratory. Within the framework of International Biotechnology Day, the Consortium emphasizes the importance of these strategic alliances in building a more sustainable industry, resilient and aligned with the climate and social challenges of the 21st century.