Having created a unique partnership with the Edinburgh Complex Fluids Partnership and the University of Leeds, our team has been awarded funding by the EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation program to work on an exciting sustainable innovation technology.
Within the cohort I am in charge of the interdisciplinary R&D implementation, making sure that the scientific and technical experimental work develops cohesively with the design, commercial and sustainability objectives of the project.
A team of experts in knit textile design, material innovation and soft matter physics, we are joining forces to transform a newly discovered bacterial protein in sustainable, non-toxic, waterproofing and protective coatings for the e-textiles and textile markets.
Having identified the devastating environmental impact of toxic chemical textile finishes, we aim to develop transparent and ethical alternatives. Our protein-based technology is in fact produced by a harmless bacteria living in the soil. Unlike industrial chemicals it is therefore biodegradable and can be safely disposed of. In the next months we will focus on exploring applications in the fields of Smart Clothing and Performance Sportswear.
Widely recognised barriers to market for smart wearables are the limited washability and longevity of electronic yarns and limited protection of wearable clothing from wet and corrosive environmental conditions. In this niche area we aim to demonstrate the technical efficacy and usability of the protein as e-textiles specific protective coating solution, reducing wear during use andwashing, and improving overall product performance.
More information here.
The sportswear industry is looking for new technologies that can provide new functionalities to current fibers in a sustainable way. In this area we will explore the creative possibilities at the intersection of engineered knitting construction and selective use of coating techniques and natural fibers. We believe our bio-coating could enable natural materials to become responsive systems within fabric and garment design, automatically adapting to changes in the localised moisture environment.
