INCOLAT

INCOLAT is a COOCK+ project led by Centexbel in collaboration with ILVO and Viaverda, with support from VLAIO. The project focuses on the development and valorization of next-generation antimicrobial (AM) and antifouling (AF) additives for coatings and plastics, tailored specifically to the needs of the agriculture and horticulture sectors.

In environments where moisture, biofilm formation, and microbial contamination are common, antimicrobial and antifouling functionalities are essential. Without them, businesses face hygiene challenges, rising maintenance costs, and reduced material lifespan. At the same time, traditional biocides are increasingly restricted due to stricter regulations (BPR, REACH) and growing concerns about environmental and health impacts. 

As a result, companies urgently need effective, sustainable alternatives—but often lack clarity on which solutions work best for specific materials and applications.

INCOLAT addresses this gap through proof-of-concept studies (TRL 5–7), validating cutting-edge antimicrobial and antifouling additives in relevant materials and realistic use cases. The project explores innovative technologies such as catalytically active metals, synergistic non-biocidal boosters, natural and bio-based components, controlled (slow-release) systems, and combinations with water-repellent functionalities. 

A key objective is to reduce biocide concentrations while minimizing environmental impact.

The project covers a broad range of applications across four core segments:

• Technical textiles (e.g., agro-textiles, nets, and screening fabrics)
• Plastics (e.g., greenhouse films, irrigation systems, pots, trays, and livestock equipment)
• Coatings for agricultural infrastructure and equipment
• Paints for concrete, glass, and other surfaces with reduced fouling and maintenance needs

Through laboratory screening, pilot-scale testing, and real-world validation in greenhouses, livestock facilities, and marine environments, INCOLAT identifies which additives are effective, at what concentrations, and under which conditions. These insights provide companies with a solid foundation to launch tailored R&D or implementation trajectories.

Beyond technological validation, INCOLAT strongly emphasizes knowledge sharing and industry support. 

Companies benefit from webinars, practical tools, and decision frameworks addressing biocide regulations, ecological impact (LCA), and economic business cases. 

This enables both SMEs and larger enterprises to bring innovative AM & AF solutions to market faster—while avoiding non-compliance risks and greenwashing.

INCOLAT targets companies across the entire value chain: from additive and binder suppliers, to formulators and compounders, to processors in coatings, plastics, and textiles, as well as end users in agriculture and horticulture. By fostering close collaboration between research centers and industry, the project acts as a cross-sector innovation platform that accelerates development and enables new value chains.

For Flanders, INCOLAT delivers clear added value: 

• it strengthens the manufacturing industry through high-quality research,
• drives sustainable innovation in growth markets,
• extends material lifespans,
• and contributes to environmental gains and operational efficiency in a sector facing increasing societal and regulatory pressure.