Shellworks Secures $15 Million Series A to Scale Vivomer Technology

London-based biotech startup Shellworks has announced the successful close of a $15 million Series A funding round, a significant milestone intended to accelerate the commercialization of its proprietary bioplastic material, Vivomer. The fresh injection of capital will enable the company to significantly scale its manufacturing capabilities and meet soaring global demand for sustainable packaging alternatives.

Harnessing Microbes for Vivomer Technology

Vivomer is an innovative, high-performance bioplastic produced entirely through microbial fermentation. Utilizing naturally occurring bacteria, the process synthesizes polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by feeding the microbes a carbon-rich diet. When extracted and processed, this bio-based polymer functions much like conventional petroleum-derived plastics—offering robust barrier properties and structural integrity—while remaining completely compostable.

Unlike traditional polylactic acid (PLA) plastics, which typically require high-heat industrial composting facilities to break down, Vivomer is specifically engineered to degrade naturally in ambient soil environments. The native microbes present in earth and compost environments view the material as a readily available food source, consuming it quickly without leaving behind persistent microplastics or harmful toxic residues.

Strategic Expansion and R&D

The $15 million funding round arrives at a critical inflection point for the broader bioplastics market. With the capital, Shellworks plans to transition from pilot-scale operations to commercial-scale manufacturing. The company is poised to deploy advanced fermentation infrastructure that will drastically increase its volumetric output over the coming year.

Furthermore, Shellworks will expand its research and development division. The team is focused on fine-tuning Vivomer’s mechanical properties for more demanding, rigid packaging applications. The personal care and cosmetics industries remain prime targets, where replacing single-use petroleum plastics without sacrificing brand aesthetics or product shelf life is a highly sought-after capability. By securing this vital funding, Shellworks takes a major step toward eliminating plastic pollution at its source.

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