Columbia Technology Ventures

Biodegradable material for multi-purpose fabrics

This technology is a biodegradable fabric-like substance composed of bio-based materials, primarily clay-rich raw soil, which can be used for apparel and alternative craft and industrial applications.

Unmet Need: Sustainable alternatives for textiles and fibers

The textile industry utilizes engineered petrochemicals to produce synthetic fibers, which can deplete oil resources and negatively impact the environment. Although biopolymers and bio-composites are eco-friendly material sources, they can often be inefficient or costly to produce. Furthermore, there is a lack of technology development and standardization to enhance the production of natural earthen materials with environmental and health benefits. The development of biodegradable substances composed of natural materials can help reduce environmental impacts such as carbon emissions as well as have certain health benefits.

The Technology: Earthen and bio-based material for multi-purpose fabrics

This technology is a biodegradable fabric-like substance composed of bio-based and earthen materials. The technology is largely comprised of clay-rich raw soil, which is highly available and has a zero-carbon footprint. Furthermore, the technology does not require bioplastic additives while also generating a flexible and light fabric with physiological benefits. The technology can be used for craft and industrial applications as well as apparel as an eco-friendly material alternative in the textile industry.

Applications:

  • Replacement for synthetic petroleum-based fibers in the textile industry
  • Sustainable textiles for craft and industrial applications
  • Fabrics for apparel
  • Interior apparel and furniture design
  • Natural paint materials
  • Architectural fabrication for building facades, eco-friendly nature reserve establishments, insulation layers
  • Cosmetic and dermatological therapeutics based on soil bacteria and skin-soil interaction
  • Research tool for analysis of eco-friendly material alternatives such as biopolymers and bio-composites
  • Research tool for the study of physiological benefits of contact with soil bacteria and texture

Advantages:

  • Cost-effective
  • Zero carbon footprint
  • Highly available clay-rich raw soil materials
  • Reduced need for bio-synthesis or bioplastic additives
  • Composed entirely of earthen and bio-based materials

Lead Inventor:

Lola Ben-Alon, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Pending

Related Publications:

Tech Ventures Reference: