The journey to creating Neutectic Solutions began with a large, global problem: marine biofouling. Biofouling is the costly build-up of organisms on submerged surfaces, and current solutions are highly toxic to the environment and to aquatic life. The idea emerged from a funded science programme at the Bioeconomy Science Institute, aimed at solving problems for New Zealand's open ocean aquaculture.
Meet the founders of Neutectic Solutions, one of 18 exciting ventures participating in the Sprout Accelerator Spring25 Cohort. The ambitious team of three, Sarita, Taylan, and Dan, are driven by a desire to help grow the global aquaculture sector, which is vital for feeding a growing population, without damaging the environment with harsh chemicals. Sarita brings commercial business acumen and broad startup experience. Taylan, with an agricultural chemistry background, is described as the "brains of our company" for his fundamental knowledge and ability to develop practical solutions. Dan acts as the bridge between technology and business, effortlessly communicating with both technical experts and savvy business people.
The team set out to find a “unicorn” solution; a natural, flexible, long-lasting coating that would harm biofouling but not the fish, and would not bioaccumulate in the environment. They found it in thymol, a well-documented natural bioactive with antifungal and antimicrobial properties. While thymol is typically released too quickly, the team developed a clever way to slow its release using chemistry inspired by natural deep eutectic solvents.
A key discovery for the team was realising just how hard it is to control marine biofouling. Even the harshest biocides are not 100% effective due to the diverse and ever-changing organisms found in different locations and seasons. Sarita admitted that they were initially naive to think they could eliminate it. Now, their goal is to provide a solution that is equally, or even more effective, than current toxic options, while addressing environmental issues.
The commercial viability of their solution became clear when they realised its potential went beyond just marine applications. The technology can also be utilised as an antifungal and antimicrobial solution across a wide range of areas in the agrifood value chain, including horticulture, viticulture, and apiculture, providing a platform to reduce chemical use across multiple agrifood sectors.
The next step for Neutectic Solutions is sea trials, which will elevate their technology from being lab-validated to obtaining regulatory approval, enabling the solution to get in the water. The team is encouraged by the expressions of interest and support for their solution from New Zealand-based aquaculture companies and has exciting global aspirations for the future.
As part of the Sprout Accelerator, Sarita and her team are eager to work with their mentors to determine the best business model for their venture. They hope to find a way to manufacture the product closer to global markets, rather than shipping it from New Zealand, to minimise their environmental footprint. For them, success means building a profitable venture that drives real positive environmental impact.