A Mobile Science Laboratory for Belgium
In 2010, the Royal Institute of Natural Sciences in Belgium and Solvay launched the XperiLAB project. This 16-meter, 32-ton mobile science laboratory is designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds across Belgium.
As a flagship STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education initiative supported by the Fonds Ernest Solvay, the truck brings hands-on science directly to schools and communities, making experimentation accessible and engaging.
Interactive Learning for Students Aged 10 to 14
Designed specifically for the "age of discovery", XperiLAB welcomes students into an immersive environment with nine interactive laboratories, each supervised by trained facilitators. Over the course of a 45-minute session, students follow the scientific method (Observe, Make hypotheses, Experiment, Deduce) through playful, real-world experiments.
Inside the truck, learners become scientists. From exploring microscopic organisms to testing wind turbine blades, decoding colors, building solar circuits, and analyzing fibers, every module turns abstract concepts into engaging, physical experiences. Each lab is designed to nurture critical thinking and help students understand how science shapes the world around us.
XperiLAB delivers significant educational value across all Belgian regions, ensuring science is reachable for diverse student populations.
National Impact and Outreach Statistics
Beyond the standard school circuits, XperiLAB participates in hundreds of external events, including community days and major science festivals such as "I Love Science."
A Philanthropic Partnership Model
XperiLAB is operated by the Fondation Entreprise & Institut (FEI). The program’s governance involves the IRSNB, Solvay, and external board members, ensuring the initiative remains at the forefront of scientific outreach and educational excellence.
Our Ambition: Building Future Innovators
The mission of XperiLAB is to make science approachable and tangible for every child. By fostering early engagement in STEM, Solvay helps build the next generation of scientists and responsible citizens.
This initiative is a core pillar of Solvay's "For Generations" Corporate Citizenship purpose. It aligns with our global Inclusion strategy, specifically reaching over 300 children annually through dedicated diversity and inclusion programs.
Science starts with a spark—and XperiLAB brings that spark directly to children, wherever they are.