Australian biomaterials company Nanollose is planning to build and operate a pilot-scale microbial cellulose pulp facility in Western Australia as it works to accelerate the commercialisation of its Nullarbor lyocell fibre technology.

The proposed facility will allow Nanollose to validate its microbial-cellulose production process at an industry-relevant scale. The move replaces the company’s earlier strategy of developing pilot and demonstration facilities in partnership with external organisations.

Unlike conventional lyocell, which typically relies on wood-derived cellulose pulp, Nullarbor is produced using microbial cellulose. Nanollose’s technology is designed to create an alternative feedstock for regenerated cellulosic fibres, including lyocell.

Following successful validation, the company plans to explore potential licensing agreements, joint ventures or sale arrangements. Nanollose does not currently intend to invest directly in full-scale fibre manufacturing, instead focusing on developing and proving its underlying technology.