The IBV is focused on the research and development of products and methods in the field of environmentally friendly production and disposal. The institute has been headed up by Prof. Dr. Peter M. Kunz ever since its foundation in 1988. In its first few years, it focused mainly on methods relating to the treatment of industrial wastewater and the development of compact, highly efficient systems that perform well under extreme conditions. 

Nowadays, the IBV’s work also involves thermophilic microorganisms that can be used for the degradation of mineral oil; e.g. for the biological cleaning of oily surfaces at high temperatures. In addition, the institute has established a research area focusing on the biological treatment of metal surfaces; IBV researchers have developed a biological rust removal system that removes rust and tarnish from metal surfaces. In cases where only iron is removed, the used rust removal solution can then be employed as a substrate for iron-deficient plants. The iron remover can be biologically degraded and also recycled. IBV researchers have also developed an enzymatic detergent based on a fungus model, which conforms to all sustainability criteria. This detergent is used by the Heidelberg-based fountain pen company LAMY to remove polishing residues from the hollow spaces of the pens’ metal nibs (see also: How a fungus can help in the production of fountain pens).

The IBV has a team of 13 people. It has established contacts with institutes in Asia and South America, which enables students who are doing practical training or their degree theses at the IBV to spend some time abroad.

The IBV celebrates its 25th anniversary on the Mannheim University of Applied Sciences campus in the last week of the 2013 summer semester and has invited current and former students and employees to take part in the festivities.