Method for generating biodegradable textiles with vivid color and enhanced performance
This technology is a platform for generating a wide array of customizable biodegradable protein fibers for use in textiles.
Unmet Need: Biodegradable and sustainably generated textile fibers
Due to its reliance on agriculture, livestock, and petrochemical raw materials, the textile industry is a major contributor to global climate change. With the growth of fast fashion increasing demand for new textiles, there is also an increasing demand for sustainable sourcing of high-performance materials. Current alternatives, such as sustainably produced regenerated cellulosic fibers, recycled wool, and emerging biomaterials, still rely heavily on the conventional textile process and synthetic, non-biodegradable dyes.
The Technology: Platform for generating biodegradable textile fibers with inherent color and performance properties
This technology is a platform for generating a wide array of dye-free, biodegradable protein fibers for use in sustainable textiles. Engineered proteins are synthesized in E. coli and enzymatically cross-linked to form protein and biopolymer composites into functional fibers. This enables cross-linking between a variety of proteins, including fluorescent and elastin proteins. This technology can therefore generate a range of textile fabrics with an array of inherent, dye-free pigments and functional characteristics such as UV protection and elasticity.
Several prototype fibers across a range of colors have been generated and validated through this platform.
Applications:
- Textiles for fashion
- Biodegradable fibers for medical applications
- Textiles for furniture or car interiors
- Fibers for sustainable packaging
Advantages:
- Decreased needs for water, energy, and chemically intensive production processes
- Dye-free pigmentation
- Biodegradable and compostable
- No contribution to microplastic pollution
- UV protection
- Promotes sustainability in the fashion industry
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending (US20230322902)
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU20256
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu