LAB for Fast-Growing Materials

Institute of Engineering Design and Materials Science – University Innsbruck

GROWNlab develops material technologies based on holistic bioeconomic concepts for the substitution of fossil raw materials.

We see the solution in the potential of cascading utilisation of residual materials from agriculture that promotes soil health and biodiversity.

GROWN was founded in 2023 as a Unit at MTI (Material Technology Innsbruck) to expand the university’s range of expertise in the field of fast growing raw materials. We see our core task in developing  contextualised material technology solutions and product developments for industries such as construction and mobility. With an interdisciplinary approach, we view raw materials as part of circular bioeconomy systems and develop our technology concepts accordingly at the interface between agriculture and holistic value chains in the context of the Alpine region as our habitat.
  • on sustainable raw material production and technology development based on holistic, value-added renewable raw materials from agricultural residuals and waste
  • integrated circular bioeconomy systems, also applicable to small-scale agricultural and industrial landscapes, through cascading raw material utilization concepts
  • the restoration of biodiversity through the promotion of selected crops biomass and organic farming integrating nature
  • development of resilient material concepts and manufacturing processes in dialog with supporting ecological and economic considerations (LCA, LCC)

In 2025, we launched GROWN’s local field research at the garden shed Gartenzwerg in Arzl, Innsbruck. Here, we explore the agricultural process of fast-growing fibres on a mini scale, allowing us to work hands-on between soil and lab. This year, various types of hemp and flax are growing alongside sunflowers and wheatgrass.

funded by Land Tirol Abteilung Wirtschaftsstandort, Digitalisierung und Wissenschaft