Annual

Report

2009

Letter from the General Manager 3

1. CerteCh 5

1.1 Presentation 6

1.2 Markets 10

1.3 The people and the organisation 11

1.4 Key Figures 12

1.5 Recognition & Communication 13

Recognition 13

Communication 13

Symposia 14

Publications 15

2. 2009 highlights 17

2.1 Public R&D projects 18

2.2 Technological Developments 21

2.3 Intellectual Property and Product Development 21

2.4 Quality 21

2.5 Future Plans 22

3. Accounts 23

Income statement 2009 26

CERTECH Management 27

The Board of Directors 27

General Manager 27

The Scientific Advisory Board of CERTECH 27

Industrial Steering Committee 28

Independent accountant 28

Auditor 28

Contents

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Annual

Report

2009

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to CerteCh Stakeholders,

The 2009 economic downturn impacted negatively CERTECH industrial revenues, but income arisingfrom collective research public projects largely compensated for this reduction.

Synthesis and catalysis activities have been addressing historically major corporations’ projects, withrelatively large ups and downs in activity. However, increasing focus on “green chemistry” is bringingrenewed interest and opportunities.

Environmental services have been severely hit in 2009, as a result of reductions in industrial activityand plant closures. Demand for polymer technology services remained surprisingly strong however.

Expectations for 2010 are that moderate improvement shall take place with respect to industrial activ-ity. Public origin resources should further develop in 2010 through the implementation of long termprojects initiated mid year in 2009.

CERTECH sustainable development strategy continued to unfold, with the commissioning of a wasterecycling pilot plant, the start up of state of art analytical equipment aiming at better, faster and moresensitive determination of materials composition and potential risks to the environment. Last but notleast, the board of directors has approved the building of a large dedicated industrial hall which shallhost the centre existing and future pilot facilities. This shall enable CERTECH to demonstrate better howit can proceed from molecular architecture to finished products.

Letter from the General Manager

henri May

General Manager

Annual

Report

2009

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1.1 Presentation

The Centre of Technological Resources in Chemistry (CERTECH asbl) is a contract research organisation pro-viding a wide range of services to industries directly or indirectly involved with chemical technology, suchas automobile, construction, packaging, food, agriculture, personal care, pharmaceutical, medical, energy,environment, etc.CERTECH’s mission is to provide help, support and services to small and large industrial enterprises, by offer-ing ad hoc analysis and measurements, problem-solving, contract research, product and process develop-ment capabilities.

CERTECH is committed to provide its customers with expert guidance and accurate results. Through R&D,close partnership with industry or other research organisations, the centre draws on latest developments tooffer its clients state-of-the-art facilities, innovative products, processes and methods.

Leading expertises include air environment, polymer technology and catalysis and synthesis.

Fields of activity

Air environmentCERTECH offers services in the field of air quality, risk assessment and environmental impact studies.Research relates to diagnosis and treatment of near field air quality (troposphere and indoor pollution) aswell as to emissions from materials.

Outdoors air pollution:

• Sampling and on-line measurements of odour and gaseous effluents (VOC, SOx, NOx, dusts...) fromlocalised sources (chimney, outlet...) and diffuse sources (landfill, water purification plant...)

• Environmental impact via simulations of atmospheric dispersion of odours and gaseous pollutants for var-ious industries (pharmaceutical, chemical and steel industries, agriculture and food industries, compost-ing sites, wastewater treatment, landfills...)

• Neighbourhood direct assessment: determination of industrial pollution exposure in ambient air, traceabil-ity of sources, mid-term to long-term monitoring...

• Performance evaluation of treatments units, identification of best available technologies, definition ofspecifications, design concepts and recommendation of providers

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architecte: P. Samyn - photo: Archiguide

Indoo rs air pollution:

• Identification and characterisation of chemical, physical and microbiological pollutants as well as odoursources

• Assessment of treatment options• Preliminary toxicological impact assessment

Workplace air assessment:

• Sampling and analysis of dusts, aerosols and chemical components (determination of exposure limits),measurement of nanoparticles and biological agents (yeasts, moulds and bacteria) in ambient air, deter-mination of the organic vapour cartridge service lifetime for respiration protection.

• Probability calculation to make representative assessments of workplace exposure• Characterization of ATEX (ATmosphere EXplosive) atmosphere

emissions from materials

CERTECH deals with research, development, testing and consulting in all aspects of emissions from materi-als. New requirements from end-users (low odour and emission products), new directives & regulations (forexample new OEM standards or construction products directive and its essential requirements on hygiene,health and the environment) have distinct influences on the market. They have generated a need for reliablelaboratory testing conditions. Combining its skills in sampling and analysis of air with its expertise in mate-rials technology, CERTECH has developed leading edge know how in assessing and managing gaseous emis-sions produced by materials. It includes indoor air quality (IAQ), emissions from building or transport mate-rials, migration phenomena and organoleptic contamination of packaging materials.Research is focused on the reduction of exposure related to different sources of pollutant by providing com-pound-specific data on various sources, developing data useful to manufacturers and builders to assesspotential product emissions and finally proposing new materials presenting a reduced rate of emissions(formulations or process modifications, new non-volatile additives, etc).Physico-chemical analysis (gas and liquid chromatography: VOC, sulphur compounds, amines, isocyanates,aldehydes and ketones,...) and sensory analyses (odour measurement by dynamic olfactometry, quantifi-cation based on intensity scale, qualitative description by expert panels and GC-MS-sniffing) are used tocharacterise gaseous pollutants.

In order to face rapidly expanding demand, CERTECH proposes rapid screening of emissive materials anddeveloped products control for building materials, furniture and household products.

CERTECH has been selected as the Belgian expert concerning the elaboration of the European StandardEN13725 “Air quality – Determination of odour concentration by dynamic olfactometry” and ISO 16000 stan-dards “Indoor air”. It is currently involved in different committees (see 1.5).

Polymer technologyIn the field of polymer technology, services include analyses and measurements, problem solving, contractresearch, development of improved products and processes.

reverse engineering and formulation:

Reverse engineering (or deformulation) aims at identifying components of a sometimes complex assembly.CERTECH has a long experience in such type of analyses. Keys to success lie in a thorough knowledge ofmaterial and analytical science, and in the ability to plan and exploit numerous sophisticated investigationtechniques, as well as searching efficiently the literature for relevant and well-targeted information. • CERTECH provides guidance and services for the formulation of thermoplastic or thermoset based prod-

ucts according to customized specifications.• Physical and chemical properties of polymers: Analyses performed are either punctual analyses or proj-

ects requiring an array of different techniques.

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Among the available techniques:

• Chemical spectroscopies: FTIR, Raman, UV-Vis and NMR• Thermal analysis: DSC and TGA• Chromatographic techniques : HPLC-PDA-MS, GC-FID, PY-GC-MS, SEC (or GPC)• Mechanical properties determination (impact strength, HDT, tensile properties)• Rheology (MFI, Capillary and rotational rheometry)

Morphology:

There is a close relationship between microstructure and properties of materials. Morphologic analysis istherefore an important field of investigation. CERTECH has built expertise in the characterization of polymersby microscopy and surface analysis. Topographic analysis is performed using profilometry and scanningelectron microscopy (SEM). This technique combined to EDX spectroscopy allows for elemental analysis.The phase micro-distribution is studied by optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Thesetechniques require specific sample preparations i.e. microtomy and (cryo-) ultramicrotomy.

Processing:

CERTECH is equipped with a range of processing tools such as a high shear blender, an internal mixer, a mini-extruder combined with a mini-injection moulder, twin-screw extruders, single-screw (co) extruders, injec-tion moulding, etc. Those highly flexible equipments are designed for the simulation of industrial transfor-mation processes: compounding, coextrusion of films or tubes, cable insulation, injection molding, prepara-tion of nanocomposites. Available output ranges from 5g to a few hundred kg of transformed materials.

Catalysis and synthesis

CERTECH is active in organic and inorganic catalysis and synthesis. High throughput experimentation allowsfor accelerated new product discovery. CERTECH services include custom synthesis and novel polymer syn-thesis routes. CERTECH also strives to the improvement of synthetic pathways and process development forchemicals and rare active ingredients.

In summary, Certech can help in:• Bibliographic studies• Optimisation of synthetic pathways • Synthesis of building blocks• Structural modification (optimisation, patent exemple)• Preparation of analogues around an active lead• Small libraries of molecules with automated synthesis workstations • Synthesis from gram to kilogram in classical laboratory conditions or with semi-automated reactors

CERTECH can rely on a broad range of analytical techniques to control and monitor its synthesis work: • a series of chromatographic techniques such as LC, LC-MS, GC-MS, GC-FID with autosamplers• TLC sampler and OPLC (Optimum Performance Laminar Chromatography)• Spectroscopic methods such as IR, Raman, UV, NMR

Catalysis, homogeneous or heterogeneous, is vital to the chemical industry and is now widely used in mostindustrial chemical processes. Process benefits derive from cost savings (via improved time, energy and rawmaterials efficiencies) and from reducing the environmental impact of chemical operations. CERTECH scien-tists have experience in hydrogenation, C-C couplings, hydrosilylation, polymerisation or photocatalysis.

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Organometallic synthesis:

• Controlled conditions (oxygene, moisture) and standard techniques in organometallic chemistry (distilledsolvents, argon-vacuum manifold, Schlenk techniques)

• Expertise in the synthesis of organometallic complexes and non-commercial catalysts • Enantioselective synthesis and chiral ligand synthesis

Inorganic materials synthesis:

• Synthesis of solids with controlled porosity by way of sol-gel • Nano-materials synthesis • Oxide synthesis with large surface areas (SiO2, zeolites, TiO2...)

Catalysis:

• Enantioselective catalysis• Photocatalysis • Catalytic system optimisation • Reaction under pressure (up to 600 ml and 100 bar) • Hydrogenation, hydroformylation, cross-coupling, hydrosilylation, polymerisation, photo-oxidation...

Arising from pharmaceutical research in the 1980s, combinatorial chemistry or high throughput experimen-tation (HTS) is a key technique in pharmaceutical research discovery process, through the rapid synthesisof thousands of compounds. A few years ago, a rationalizing effort appeared with parallel synthesis.CERTECH could offer enhanced productivity by expanding significantly synthetic capabilities per unit timeand effort thanks to the simultaneous run of a large number of reactions:• In organic synthesis for the preparation of small libraries of molecules.• In catalysis for the parallel evaluation of new catalysts or the optimisation of existing systems.• In polymer synthesis• In formulation of complex systems

equipments available at Certech include:

• Automated synthesis workstation under controlled atmosphere (up to 32 parallel reactions) • Parallel autoclaves with mechanical stirring (8 x 20 ml scale, up to 34 bar and 200°C) • Microwave reactor (from 0.5 ml to 20 ml) • Data and information management with a dedicated database

Polymer synthesis and modification:

CERTECH has built an expertise in polymer and copolymer synthesis:• Controlled radical polymerization• Ionic polymerization (cationic or anionic)• Transition metal complex catalysis (Chromium, Ziegler-Natta, metallocene and new single-site catalysts).

Functionalisation of polymers has found several applications:

• immobilization of macromolecules on surfaces• adjustment of polymer polarity• coupling of macromolecules to obtain block or graft copolymers

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Finally, CERTECH has been working in the field of phosphoric acid type fuel cells.• Electrode materials catalysts formulation• Optimisation of ink deposit on diffusion layer• Synthesis of new membranes

CERTECH is active in different projects around the thematic of a better exploitation of Energy resources,especially from wastes.

1.2 Markets

As shown in Figure 1, CERTECH serves a wide range of industries. Major markets involve environment andenergy (28%) and medical, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries (20%). Those customers call upon thedifferent competencies of the centre and the synergies between the three activities. CERTECH provides alsoservices to laboratories (13%) and polymer producers (10%).

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Environnement & Energy Medical, Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Laboratories Polymer producers Transport Chemistry Packaging Building Food Glass Others polymers end-user Electronic & Electric Other

Figure 1:

Distribution of income of

industrial origin in 2009

1.3 People and Organisation

CERTECH activities are organized around three units: air environment, polymer technology and catalysis & synthe-sis (figure 2). Within each unit, the work environment is matrix and team based. It is meant to integrate the diverseknow-how from the thematic expertise of project managers to the instrumental expertise of support scientists.

Administration provides critical services such as accounting, purchasing and management of human resources.Maintenance, safety, information technology and quality are provided part time by appropriately trained scientistswho generally coordinate the support of contracted external organisations.

By the end of 2009, the Centre employed 35 scientists and administrative staff. CERTECH people are characterisedby a highly qualified and dedicated workforce. Six new collaborators joined the centre in 2009. They bring toCERTECH a great mix ranging from the enthusiasm of the early youth to the wisdom of long industrial experiences.

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Figure 2:

Organisation

Air environment Coordination

Dr C henneuse

Polymer technology Coordination

Dr Ir B Goffin

General ManagementDr h May

Infrastructure Dr A Jadin - Information technology

Ing K Crener - Maintenance & Securitye Novak - Maintenance & Security

Administration Grad A Malacord, Adm Mgr, Purchasing

Grad A Marchand, HR, LogisticsS Dugaro, Accounting

Business management Dr h May a.i.

Quality Dr O Noiset

Dr Ir F Collignon

Catalysis and SynthesisCoordination

Dr Ir G Michaud

Dr PG MoniotteSenior scientist

Dr Ir B GoffinProject Mgr

Polymer Composites

Dr S rachidiProject Mgr

Formulation of polymers

Ir h DamsirProject Mgr

Formulation of polymers

Ir V CosseProject MgrPolymers

Dr A JadinAnalytical Sciences Mgr

Physical analysis

Ing K CrenerTechnologist

Microscopy, Processing

Ir P Le MaîtreTechnologist

Microscopy, Testing

Grad C DraguetTechnologistMicroscopy

Lic M OwenAnalytical Sciences Mgr

Chemical analysis

Dr Ir B Kartheuser, Project MgrPhotocatalysis

Inorganic synthesisSol gel

Dr Ir F Collignon, Project MgrHeterogeneous catalysis

Inorganic synthesisSol gel

Dr Ir G Michaud, Project MgrHomogeneous catalysis

Organic synthesis

Dr Ir C hillairet, Project MgrHomogeneous catalysis

Organic synthesis

Dr A BoborodeaTechnologist

Separations, DMA

Ing A GiacomazziTechnologist

Spectroscopy, synthesis

Grad C VanoosthuyzeTechnologist

Thermal analysis, synthesis

Grad C GoffinTechnologist

Synthesis

Grad J PleckTechnologist

Synthesis

Lic M rousselTechnologist

RMN, Synthesis

Dr Ir B Kartheuser

Project Mgr

Indoors air treatment

Grad S Moro Project Mgr

Occupational environment

Ir t PacaryProject Mgr

Indoors environmentEmissions from materials

Dr C henneuseProject Mgr

Indoors environmentEmissions from materials

Lic JJ LemaireProject Mgr

Outdoors environment

Ir D LalandeProject Mgr

Outdoors environment

Dr O NoisetConsultant

e NovakTechnologist

Sampling

Grad L BylteristTechnologist

GC-MS

Ing A BorcyTechnologist

Sensorial analysis

Ing F rospoTechnologist

GC-MS

Lic Pascal LemaireTechnologist

GC-MS

Dr Ir C hillairetAnalytical Sciences Mgr

Air quality

1.4 Key Figures

In 2009, CERTECH billed € 1.685.938 to private industrial organisations and managed € 1.350.170 of pub-lic funding. Figure 3 shows the comparison with previous years.

The centre has seen a significant reduction (-21%) of resources from private origin (contracts research,industrial research projects and conference organisation) as a result of 2009 economic downturn.Fortunately, a number of public research contracts could be initiated.

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Figure 3:

turnover in 2009, comparison with

2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004.

0

500000

1000000

1500000

2000000

2500000

3000000

3500000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Year

CA (k

€)

Public funding

Contracts

1.5 recognition & Communication

Recognition

CERTECH has successfully participated to an international round robin dealing with dynamic olfactometryfor the quantification of odours according to the European standard EN13725. It involved 34 participantsfrom Europe, USA and South America.

CERTECH is recognized as expert in different ISO and CEN committees active in the field of:• Determination of VOC’s in indoor air• Emissions into indoor air• Emissions from constructions products into indoor air• Sensory testing• Measurement of odour impact by field inspection• Photocatalysis• Workplace air• Ambiant air – diffusive samplers

Participation to theses committees enables scientific exchanges and elaboration of new standards. As anexample, the AFNOR commission B44A “photocatalysis” where CERTECH was involved, has published a stan-dard for photocatalytic air purifier testing.

CERTECH is the Belgian representative at a COST Action 540 “Photocatalytic technologies and novel nanosur-faces materials - critical issues” (PHONASUM). This action gathers a European network of researchers andpractitioners working in the field of photocatalysis. It concentrates on the development of EU standards forthe characterization of photocatalytic materials.

CERTECH is authorized by the Walloon Region as a qualified laboratory for providing services for the sam-pling, analysis, research and development in the field of air quality (including odour aspects).CERTECH is recognised by the Walloon Region and by the Flemish authorities to be eligible as subcontractorfor technological consultancy via the so-called “chèques services technologiques” for Wallonia (seewww.ct.innovons.be) or “KMO-portefeuille” for Flanders (see kmo-portefeuille.be). These grants are dedicat-ed to SMEs to support and promote innovation.

CERTECH has been approved as a service provider for the years 2009, 2010 and 2011 under the French GeneralCode of Taxation allowing a Research Tax Credit (CIR). CERTECH is also recognised by ADEME (The FrenchAgency for the Environment and Energy Management) as a qualified laboratory in the field of air quality.

Communication

The Phoenix project (see II.1 Public R&D projects), a process for the conversion of wastes into petrol or dieseltype hydrocarbons, has been widely reported in media.

Some examples are reported hereafter:

“Les épaves de voitures transformées en essence”, www.rtlinfo.be“Votre vieille voiture transformée en carburant: test au Campus automobile de Francorchamps”,www.televesdre.eu/site/votre_vieille_voiture_transformee_en_carburant_test_au_campus_automobile_de_fran-corchamps-4490-999-89.htmlRTBF : 04/12/2009“Transformer les épaves en carburant”, Nord-Eclair (Verviers - Stavelot) - La Capitale - Sud Presse - la MeuseStavelot, 05/12/2009“Des épaves de véhicules transformées en carburant” - RTBF: 04/12/2009

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“Voitures transformées en carburant !”, L’avenir - le Jour - le Courrier “De l’épave à l’... essence”, La Dernière HeureDH, 07/12/2009Le Journal des Ingénieurs n°126 - Décembre 2009, pages 4-7

Other press articles mention the research and developments in Certech:

“Le CERTECH innove. Entre bois et plastique, le bois composite s’impose. Et pas que sur vos terrasses”,Sudpresse, 6/08/2009, page 6“L’innovation à la pointe des technologies. Le CERTECH travaille le matériau de demain, un composite bois-plastique”, Les infos de Valbois, 09/2009, pages 16-17“Le CERTECH: une success story chimique”, la Quinzaine n°299, 03/2009, page 5“Recy-Polymer: Un projet transfrontalier de recyclage”, Recyclage-Récupération, n°2, 19 janvier 2009, page 7

Symposia

The 7th edition of "Emissions and odours from materials"took place in Brussels, the 8th and 9th of October. Over80 people from all-over Europe attended the two-daysconference, confirming the interest of industry and pub-lic in this field. Delegates came mainly from the plasticindustry (raw material producers) but also from theautomotive, packaging and building industries.European laboratories & research centers were broadlyrepresented. A summary of the conference was reportedin Mobiletex, vol 4, N°11, page 3, November 2009 and inInternational Dyer, MAR, pages 33-34, 2010.

The 6th European “Additives & Colors” Conference wasorganized by the Additives & Colors Europe (ACE) Divisionof the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) on 11-12 March,in Antwerp (Belgium). The meeting was a success despitethe economic crisis, with nearly 100 delegates comingfrom 14 different countries. The quality and scope of thepresentations was of high technical value. The confer-ence provided an excellent opportunity to catch up onrecent developments and to interact with colleagues fromthe industry or from universities and research centers.The technical exhibition, organised jointly with the confer-ence, was also very much appreciated.

After two years in the chair, Bénédicte Goffinfrom CERTECH handed the gavel over to RobertoTodesco from Sabo Intl, who will be in the chairuntil 2011. Luc van Aken from Sibelco, pastchair of the Division, did an excellent job asconference chair.

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Publications

Papers:

Characterization of VOC and formaldehyde emissions from a wood based panel: results from an interlabora-tory comparison, Yrieix, C.; Dulaurent, A.; Laffargue, C.; Maupetit, F.; Pacary, T.; Uhde, E.; submitted toChemosphere.

Sensoplast: un programme Interreg pour les PME transfrontalières actives dans le domaine de la plasturgie,Henneuse, C.; Journal des Ingénieurs, n°126, 2009, page 26, http://www.fabi.be/actu1/JI126_LR.pdf.

Le sol-gel: la chimie douce au service de l’innovation technologique, Collignon, F.; Journal des Ingénieurs,Mars 2009, page 16, www.fabi.be/fabi5/JI119_7.pdf.

Study of odours coming out of polyurethane flexible foam mattresses; Hiller, K.; King, D.A.; Henneuse, C.;Cellular polymers, vol 28, n°2, 2009, 113-144.

Conférences:

Techniques d'abattement des polluants atmosphériques - Maîtriser et diminuer ses rejets atmosphériques,Quelle approche adopter dans une démarche d'abattement des odeurs? Lalande, D.; Groupe Facteur 4,Wepion, Belgique, 19 novembre 2009.

HYBRIPROTECH project: Development of hybrids solutions for surfaces protection, Kartheuser, B.; COST 540,Application of photocatalytic technologies for cultural heritages protection, NCSR Demokritos, Athens,Greece, 29-30 October 2009.

Piles à combustibles: Innovations et perspectives d’application à court terme, Damsir, H.; EnergyMons,Mons, Belgique, 23 Octobre 2009

Photocatalytic nanomaterials for air purification, Kartheuser, B.; 1st International Conference NANOCON2009, Roznov pod Radhostem, Czech Republic, 20t -22 October, 2009.

Technologie Sol Gel, Journée “traitement du bois”, Michaud, G.; Pole IAR, Charleville-Mezière, France, 15 octobre 2009.

Odour emission into confined spaces – “just hot air” or another relevant parameter of the IAQ? Noiset, O.; Symposium “Emissions and odours from materials”, Brussels, Belgium, 7-8 October 2009.

Emissions of materials: Additives for odours and emissions reduction, Hillairet, C.; International Symposium“IMAG-IN”: Multidisciplinary projects based on Physic, Chemistry, Biology and Image Analysis, Rennes(France), 24 – 26 June 2009.

Belgium‘s Activity on Photocatalysis Related to Application and Standardization , Kartheuser,B.; van Olmen,R.; Beeldens, A.; COST 540- Photocatalytic applications, standardization and testing methods – criticalissues, Liblice ,Czech Republic, 25-26 May 2009.

Odours and Emissions from packaging materials, Henneuse, C.; 12th TAPPI European PLACE ConferencePolymers, Laminations, Adhesives, Coatings, and Extrusions, Budapest, Hungary, 18 - 20 May 2009.

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Evaluation de l’exposition des travailleurs aux agents chimiques et particulaires. “De l’évaluation du profild’exposition journalier à des solvants à la mise en place de mesures représentatives“, salon SECURA, Moro,S.; Bruxelles, Belgique, 26 mars 2009.

Polyoléfines à propriétés barrières améliorées, Rachidi, S.; Journée d’étude “EMBALLAGES Actifs etEmballages Intelligents”, SECF, 26 mars 2009, Bruxelles.

Olfactométrie et emballage, Pacary, T.; Journée d’étude “EMBALLAGES Actifs et Emballages Intelligents”,SECF, 26 mars 2009, Bruxelles.

“Additives for Odour and Emission reduction”, Henneuse, C.; 6th European “Additives and Colors” Conference,SPE, 11-12 March 2009, Antwerpen, Belgium.

Stand presence at trade fairs:

In'Surf meeting, Innovation in coating and materials, 15 October 2009, Mons, Belgium.

11 th workshop odour and emission of plastic materials, 30-31 March, 2009, Kassel, Germany.

7th Secura edition (safety & security at work), 25-26-27 March, Brussels, Belgium.

6th European “Additives & Colors” Conference, 11-12 March, 2009, Antwerp, Belgium.

23 th Pollutec edition, 1-4 December 2009, Paris, France.

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CERTECH mission is to try and speed up the R&D efforts of its industrial partners. Typical developmentsinclude:

• Collective or public research: the Centre executes a research that has often generic characteristics andthat is financed by a public body (Region, Nation, Europe, etc). The results of the research are usuallyaccessible to all enterprises.

• Product and process development: The Centre executes a program driven by an organisation or an enter-prise. Results belong typically to the organisation that has financed the work.

• Research & Development projects initiated by the Centre, at its own cost, typically on the basis of an iden-tified market need. Results belong to the Centre.

2.1 Public r&D projects

In 2009, the “POLYCHANVRE” project has been approved under the Interreg IV programme between Franceand Belgium. This project will involve a collaboration of CERTECH with the University of Liège - GemblouxAgro-Bio Tech (Gembloux), INRA – UMR FARE (Reims) and CRITT MDTS (Charleville-Mézières). The objectiveof the project is the crossborder development of polymer-hemp composite materials. The project will start inApril 2010.

Two new collective research projects have been approved by the Walloon region authorities:• The Modicell project (2009-2011) involves a collaboration of CERTECH with Materia Nova and Celabor.

Modicell aims at developing packaging materials combining a structural cellulose matrix with a biodegrad-able polymers coating to improve water and oxygen barrier properties. Food packaging paper is the projecttarget market.

• The Paragglo project deals with reduction of industrial dust pollution by acoustic agglomeration helped bychemical agglomeration. It involves three research centres: CRM, CENAERO and CERTECH.

Projects in progress are listed below:• The INTERMES project has started in October 2008, as the subject of a PhD thesis financed by the Walloon

region under the First DOCA program. It aims at developing new mesoporous polyimide structures. Thestrategy is based on the synthesis of interpenetrating networks of polyimide and labile polymers. ACERTECH researcher is performing the research under supervision of Prof. Philippe Dubois at University ofMons-Hainaut (Belgium).

• Within the frame of the regional competitiveness action for Energy “open innovation”, a collaborative proj-ect named “PICOM”, concerning fuel cells, has been pursued in 2009. This project is conducted in partner-ship with ULg - CIOR and LASSC (University of Liège), UCL – EMIC (University of Louvain), NANOCYL S.A. andIT4IP S.A., who are coordinating the work. It concerns the development of new MEA (Membrane ElectrodeAssembly) thanks to the innovative materials supplied be the two companies.

• The first phase of the project Hope4PD has been pursued in 2009 (regional competitiveness cluster forHealth BIOWIN - Marshall Plan). The project attempts to identify new treatments for Parkinson’s disease.The strategy of the project rests on validating the pertinence of receptors as novel drug targets and toidentify compounds that can modulate these receptors. The project involves Euroscreen, UCB pharma, aswell as laboratories from Namur and Brussels Universities. If the first phase reaches promising results,CERTECH will be involved in the second part of the project (2010-2012) through the synthesis of targetcompounds.

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• The Interreg IV RECY-POLYMER project (FranceWalloniaFlanders programme) focuses on innovative andvalue-added applications for plastic waste in order to minimise their landfill or disposal. The aim of thiscross-border project is the development of recycled products based on PVC, automotive plastics waste andwaste of electrical and electronic equipments (WEEE). RECY-POLYMER involves collaboration betweenCERTECH (Wallonia), CREPIM (France) and VKC (Flanders).

More details on www.recypolymer-interreg.org

• The Interreg IV (France-Wallonia programme) Hybriprotech project, involves CERTECH, CRITT-MDTS(Charleville- Mézières) and GEGENA (University of Reims). The aim of the project is the creation of cross-border collaborations in the field of surfaces protection, thanks to hybrid materials as sustainable solu-tions. It concerns the development of technologies more specifically devoted to the protection of metalsand stone preservation.

More details are available on www.hybriprotech.eu

• The Interreg IV (Wallonia-France programme) Sensoplast project deals with sensory properties of plastics.It has started in 2009 in collaboration with Armines-Ecole de Douai. Sensoplast aims at developing knowl-edge and methodologies for the control of odours generated by polymeric materials. Targeted applicationsare transportation and building industries (impact on the air quality perceived in confined spaces) as wellas packaging (impact on content quality, content/container interaction). This program will seek the iden-tification and characterisation of odorous compounds emitted by polymeric materials, the impact of differ-ent parameters on these emissions and their eventual remediation.

More information available at: www.sensoplast-interreg.eu

• CERTECH has been granted two projects in the framework of the Operational Programmes of the EuropeanStructural Funds for the 2007-2013 period (European Fund for Regional Development):

- MICROPACK was started on July 1st 2009, for a period of 6 years. It aims at developing a new concept forthe protection and preservation of food in plastic packaging, at a more attractive cost performance ratiothan known technologies. MICROPACK will approach the barrier properties of offer a way to reach the effec-tiveness of multilayer products through novel additives that could be applied to existing monolayer pro-cessing equipment. CERTECH is the coordinator of the project. Partners are CELABOR who have developeda broad expertise in food packaging and CARAH who have expertise in chemical, physical and microbiolog-ical analysis of foodstuff.

- TECHONOPOLY (polymer technology) started in 2008 for a period of 6 years. CERTECH is the coordinatorof this project involving CTP and MATERIA NOVA. The project aims at the valorisation of municipal plasticwaste in order to minimise disposal to landfill. A range of technological options shall be considered for thebest possible environmental and economic outcome: material recycling and catalytic cracking.

• CERTECH is involved in the research project Phoenix (Plan Marshall). The project, supported by the WalloonRegion, deals with the energetic valorisation of complex ultimate wastes composed of foams, textiles, rub-bers and wood. They arise from the recycle of complex finished goods such as automobiles or “whitegoods”. This project will be conducted for 3 years by a consortium of 3 research centres, 3 private compa-nies and one training centre. If success is met, a transformation unit of 70.000 t/year would be settled inWallonia. It would produce 22 millions liters of fuel, which shall be readily converted into electricity.

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• The NaCell project involved a collaboration of CERTECH with the laboratory of polymers of the CatholicUniversity of Louvain (POLY – UCL) and the University of Gembloux (Faculté Universitaire des SciencesAgronomiques de Gembloux, FUSAGx). The project has been successful in achieving its objectives, i.e. thedevelopment of cellulose based nanocomposites of polyolefins and polylactic acid. Derived products dis-played improved properties, more particularly the melt strength, which is important for blow mouldingapplications.

• The Walloon Region collaborative research program REVADEC has started in 2007. This project was con-ducted in partnership with CTP asbl (Centre Technologique International de la Terre et de la Pierre) whowere the coordinator. The project demonstrated the feasibility of recovering major components from land-fills, such as metals or plastics, which could be valorised. It also demonstrated the feasibility of breakingdown degradable materials through the injection of air under the mass of deposits.

• CERTECH was the coordinator of OXOBIO collaborative research program in partnership with Materia Nova andCelabor. Plastic bags accumulating in landfills, flying in deserts or floating in oceans have contributed toentertain a poor image with consumers, despite the favourable convenience and cost performance featuresof these materials. Products offering attractive mechanical properties could be developed. A surprising syn-ergy could be observed as the composite material degraded faster than its biodegradable component.

• The PHASEMAT project involved collaboration between CERTECH, CRR and CSTC. It aimed at evaluating theincorporation of phase change materials that can store and release comparatively large amounts of heat.The underlying mechanism relates to a phase change of selected materials (PCM) at critical temperatures.They should be evaluated in concrete to prevent overnight freezing of roads or critical areas such asbridges. A PCM can possibly reduce the number or intensity of freeze/thaw cycles experienced by a bridgedeck or other concrete structures exposed to weathering, reducing hence fatigue and attrition.

• RETERMAT was a collaborative research programme between CSTC, CENTEXBEL, CRM and CERTECH. Thisproject aimed at evaluating the phase change material for thermal regulation of buildings.

• CERTECH participated to the NANOCOMP project, which was a large “Plan Marshall” program financed by theWalloon region in order to develop expertise and new products involving carbon nanotubes. CERTECH con-tribution was principally linked to characterisation and measurement of physical properties of materials.

Technological guidances

The Walloon Region grants financial aid to approved research centers for the creation of technological guid-ance services. This activity is dedicated to technical consultancy and innovation promotion, particularly inSMEs. It requires technological and normative watch at an international level in order to support innovationin Walloon companies.

For the period covering 2009 to 2011, CERTECH is active in 5 guidance services:WALREACH: 6 research centres join forces to support Walloon companies in the framework of REACH. SOLERO: technological guidance for an integrated management of the environmental impacts of industrialactivities in the Region (soil, air, water). 8 research centers are involved.BARRIERE: 2 research centres offer a common guidance for the development of “barrier” products andprocesses for the packaging and other applications.AIRPOLMA: identification and treatment of pollutants emitted by materials in confined spaces.POLYMERE: formulation of polymeric materials.

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2.2 technological Developments

Air Environment

CERTECH is a widely recognized expert laboratory in the assessment of air quality. For the last 10 years,CERTECH has been offering a large span of capabilities and know-how with respect to the chemical, sensor-ial (odour) and toxicological aspects of air quality. CERTECH operates as much in outdoors as indoors situa-tions related to atmospheric pollution (households, offices, transports, workplace environments...). Itsexpertise in chemical and sensorial evaluations of air quality helps customers to select the most relevantmethodology for every situation.

In addition to analysis of inhalable and alveolar fraction of dusts, CERTECH is now able to follow continuous-ly the exposure to ultrafine particles (range: 70 nm to 10 µm). This development allows for the continuouscounting of nanoparticles as well as the acquisition of distribution profiles. CERTECH offers also now micro-biological diagnosis based on identification and counting of mold and bacteria present in air.

New equipments has also been acquired: a 1m3 emission test chamber for automotive standards (testing ofVOC and odour from entire parts and finished products) and a new TDS-GC-MS-Sniffing for the evaluation ofthe emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds emitted by materials. A second olfactometer was acquired forthe evaluation of the organoleptic properties of barrier materials.

Polymer Technology

Mid- and near infrared spectrophotometers have been acquired in order to improve the chemical analysis ofvarious types of samples (e.g. identification of polymers, additives, impurities, fillers). A spatial resolution aslow as 6 µm can be obtained with the NIR spectrophotometer. One detector enables the realisation of map-ping in very short analysis times. The NIR spectrophotometer allows to evaluate parameters such as densi-ty, qualitative and quantitative measurements of comonomers, volume of fillers... However, it requires todevelop appropriate models in order to accomplish the desired characterisation.

Catalysis and synthesis

CERTECH continues to offer its services for existing and well established companies but also to start ups inorder to help them solving R&D and analytical problems. In the field of recycling, CERTECH is involved in sev-eral projects for the catalytic valorisation of wastes. The field of surface protection was also deeply investi-gated, thanks to hybrid materials as sustainable solutions. It concerns the development of technologiesmore specifically devoted to protection of metals and stone preservation, via Sol-Gel techniques.

2.3 Intellectual Property and Product Development

A patent application has been filed concerning the preparation of barrier materials.

2.4 Quality

The requirements of the revised standard ISO9001:2008 have been integrated in CERTECH quality manage-ment system. The main improvements relate to the management of external processes such as sub-contract-ing and anticipation of the legal requirements including registration and follow-up of the documentation.

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CERTECH is also seeking to upgrade its quality standards to the ISO17025 reference system. BELAC, theBelgian accreditation federal authority carried out a 2 day audit by the end of the year.

Customer satisfaction

The annual satisfaction questionnaire indicates a high degree of customer satisfaction in term of quality,delivery time, interpretation and problem solving.

Employees satisfaction

The investigation indicates a positive feedback for most indicators and good awareness to critical issuessuch as the importance of innovative developments, quality, fair access to adequate resources for fulfillingproperly work tasks.

2.5 Future Plans

CERTECH strategy shall continue to rely on knowledge based differentiation and on high value added activi-ties in line with sustainable development principles. It will leverage its capabilities, experience, and networksto stimulate the migration of industrial enterprises toward a broader exploitation of green chemistry andengineering principles.

Reliance on industry support shall remain key for the centre. This means that research shall more than everbe oriented towards well identified market and societal needs.

A new dimension shall involve tighter networking with technology transfer organisations and research insti-tutions active in complementary areas.

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Annual

Report

2009

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Assets 2009 2008

Fixed assets 990.126 484.030

Scientific equipment 973.981 483.113

Information technology 16.945 917

Current assets 4.994.108 4.975.614

Accounts due within one year 2.050.618 1.325.708

Investments 1.000.000 500.000

Short term investments (cash) 1.018.320 2.884.393

Adjustments (accrued income) 925.169 265.513

total assets 5.984.233 5.459.644

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Balance sheet 2009

Liabilities 2009 2008

reserves 4.579.059 3.955.435

Permanent resources 1.466.935 1.466.935

Accumulated reserves 1.113.128 978.939

Investment subsidies 640.823 151.389

Social reserve 1.358.173 1.358.173

Provisions for contingencies and losses 181.743 155.404

Liabilities 1.223.432 1.348.804

Accounts payable within one year 402.777 638.399

Other liabilities (cash advances) 820.655 710.405

total liabilities 5.984.233 5.459.644

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Accounts

Balance sheet 2009

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Income statement 2009 2008

turnover 3.428.069 3.176.151

Contract operations 1.685.938 2.126.841

Public research subsidies 1.350.170 748.516

Other revenues (tax incentives) 391.961 300.794

expenses 3.576.732 3.280.333

Supplies and services 782.283 831.386

Subcontracting 111.393 116.532

Salaries 2.319.081 2.189.965

Depreciation, provisions and loss of value 363.049 137.565

Exceptional expenses 926 4.885

Financial revenues 303.060 109.201

Depreciation subsidy allowance 208.959 28.160

Other income 94.101 81.041

Financial expenses 8.076 1.812

exceptional revenues 1.992 12.159

taxes 11.312 7.671

Profit 134.190 2.723

Income statement 2009

The Scientific Advisory Board of CERTECH

• Prof. P. BertrandSurface chemistry characterization (UCL)

• Prof. J. DevauxPolymer physics and chemistry (UCL)

• Prof. P. rouxhetInterface chemistry and biomaterials (UCL)

• Prof. M. DevillersInorganic chemistry and Catalysis (UCL)

• Prof. J. De WildeMaterials and Process Engineering (UCL)

• Prof. J. Marchand-BrynaertOrganic Chemistry (UCL)

• Prof. O. riantOrganic Chemistry (UCL)

• Prof. I.e. MarkoOrganic Chemistry (UCL)

• Prof. J.-F. GohyMacromolecular Chemistry (UCL)

General Manager

Dr B.H. May graduated in chemistry. He completed a PhD in inorganic chemistry before joining in 1973 MON-SANTO company in R&D. He has led several new product and process developments. In 1999 he joinedCERTECH as General Manager.

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CerteCh Management

The Board of Directors

• Prof. r. Legras, President(UCL)

• Prof. B. Macq, Prorector(UCL)

• Prof. C. Bailly (UCL)

• Prof. e. Gaigneaux(UCL)

• Prof. J.-Y. Schneider (UCL)

• Dr N. BurteauAdministration of Research (UCL)

• Mr P. BusquinMajor of Seneffe

• Mr F. BlondelCEO of IBT

• Dr G. DebrasR&D Director, TOTAL Petrochemicals

• Dr L. Lerotpast R&D Director, Solvay

• P.ParisiHSE Manager, MacTac

• Dr Momtaz ArdeshirSenior Departmental Manager, Solvay S.A.

• Dr Y. JongenDirector, IBA SA

• Mr D. GeuningManager, Sonaca SA

• Dr N. haucourtR&D Manager Chemical Projects, Group Issue Manager Recticel

• Dr G. DebrasR&D Director, TOTAL Petrochemicals

• Dr L. Lerotpast R&D Director, Solvay

Independent accountant

• Deloitte fiduciaire

Auditor

• Delvaux, Fronville, Servais et associés

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Industrial Steering Committee

The Industrial Steering Committee is made up of a cross section of CERTECH customer base. It helps theCentre to better address Industrial needs.

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CerteCh asbl

(Centre de ressources technologiques en Chimie)

Rue Jules Bordet - Zone industrielle CB-7180 Seneffe - BELGIUMTVA BE 0470.677.454 - ING 370-1128214-94Tél. +32 64 520 211 - Fax. +32 64 520 210 - e-mail: info@certech.be

www.certech.be

CerteCh asbl

(Centre de ressources technologiques en Chimie)

Rue Jules Bordet - Zone industrielle CB-7180 Seneffe - BELGIUMTél. +32 64 520 211 - Fax. +32 64 520 210 - e-mail: info@certech.be

www.certech.be

With support of the European Union

and the Government of Wallon Region