This result, from MIDAS partner GuaTecs, is an integrated biorefinery solution for producing high-quality, hypoallergenic natural latex from the guayule shrub. It directly addresses Europe’s dependence on imported Hevea latex, which causes Type I allergies and faces critical supply chain risks.
Our solution uses guayule, a climate-resilient shrub suited for cultivation on marginal lands in Southern Europe, avoiding competition with food crops. A patented, water-based eco-extraction process valorizes the entire plant into three high-value streams:
1.Natural Latex: The primary product. A high-performance, hypoallergenic polyisoprene ideal for medical gloves and other high-value applications.
2.Resin: A co-product for bio-based materials and bioactive compounds.
3.Bagasse: Fibrous biomass for green energy or bio-composites.
We have successfully validated our latex quality at the pilot scale (TRL 6). We are now focused on scaling to a demo unit (100 kg/h) and a full industrial unit (500 kg/h), creating a unique, sustainable European supply chain.
