The aim of the project is to develop an enzyme ‘toolbox’ – CarboZymes – which breaks down seaweed into valuable substances.
Seaweed is a poorly used resource that grows in large numbers off the coast of Iceland. In addition to other substances, algae contain large amounts of polysaccharides. The project will develop enzymes that break down the algae polysaccharides ulvan, xylan, carrageenan and fucoidan into valuable substances. The product of the project will contribute to an increased supply of rare new substances (mono- and polysaccharides) for industry, e.g. food and drug manufacturers.