Carapace Biopolymers B.V.

Carapace Biopolymers specializes in the product development and manufacturing of bio-based, biodegradable and bioactive coatings for plant growth products (seeds and fertilizers). The company was founded in July 2024 by Marouschka Blahetek (CEO) and Dr. Suellen Pereira Espíndola (CTO) from the TU Delft, the Netherlands.

Agriculture is undergoing critical transitions to address global population growth, increasing food demands, and environmental challenges. Traditional farming relies heavily on non-renewable resources like synthetic fertilizers and plastics, leading to soil degradation and increased climate stress. Over 60% of Europe’s soils are in an unhealthy state, with declining biodiversity and productivity. Recent legislation has targeted the excessive use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and microplastics, especially those found in coated seeds and fertilizers, due to their harmful environmental and health effects.

Carapace Biopolymers has developed biobased and fully biodegradable coating alternatives. Our seed and fertilizer coatings have unique microbial adhesion and growth, enhancing soil health and crop resilience. We are further developing products that act as soil bio-stimulants, which support plant growth by means of beneficial microbes that enhance nutrient availability. Our ongoing R&D efforts will identify ideal plant-promoting microbes and integrate them into our materials to enhance crop performance and soil health under diverse conditions.

Our biodegradable solutions help reduce microplastic pollution, chemical fertilizer dependency and nitrogen emissions, addressing key food security and sustainability challenges. Carapace Biopolymers therefore supports farmers in the transition to safer, yet effective, eco-friendly alternatives that comply with evolving regulations.