The Bioengineering Laboratory participates in the exhibition BILTIM TECHNIKA 2025

At the three-day event held at the RĀMAVA Business Centre, the Bioengineering Laboratory presented its latest achievements and services, offering visitors the opportunity to test samples of a new microbiological plant biostimulant, SubtiGaard.

It was the laboratory’s first participation in an exhibition organized by the RĀMAVA Business Centre. The decision to take part was driven by the fact that the laboratory’s current research focuses on product development for applications in agriculture and forestry.

In October 2024, work began on the scaling-up of a microbiological plant biostimulant containing Bacillus subtilis MSCL 1441 (a bacterial isolate from Latvian soil) (Rural Support Service project No. 24-00-C0LA1601-000032). Exhibition visitors had the opportunity to learn about the project’s goals and ongoing results, as well as to receive samples for field testing. The innovative concept presented during the event was: “On-farm production of microbiological preparations.”

To assess the interest of the target audience – farmers – in this potential service and the technical support it may require, a survey was conducted (Questionnaire “On-farm production of microbiological preparations”; completed forms can be sent to: oskars.grigs@kki.lv). Interested parties are invited to fill out the questionnaire even after the exhibition.

In the field of forestry, the laboratory’s related work involves collaboration with the Latvian State Forest Research Institute SILAVA on the scale-up of Phlebiopsis gigantea PG182 and PG382, fungal isolates from Latvian forests. These isolates are intended for conifer stump decomposition and control of the pathogenic fungus Heterobasidion spp. (National Research Programme project No. VPP-ZM-VRIIILA-2024/2-0002; sub-activity No. 3.4.2 Biotechnological approach for developing a biological plant protection product for forestry). During the exhibition, visitors could view samples of the preparation – including under the microscope.

In addition to these ongoing research lines, the laboratory showcased its services in microbial cultivation studies, prototype development of microbial cultivation equipment, pilot-scale liquid filtration, and expertise in process monitoring, modeling, and control.

See you at BILTIM TEHNIKA 2026, to be held next year from 24 to 26 September!