Blackfabric and Cobratex develop bamboo-based composite reinforcements

Blackfabric, based in Barcelona, Spain, has partnered with Cobratex from Corbonne, France, to create a series of woven bidirectional fabrics using bamboo tapes for composite reinforcement. The bio-based reinforcements provide immediate environmental benefits, with a Life Cycle Assessment by consultant Expleo showing that they store as much CO2 as is emitted during the production of equivalent glass fiber reinforcements.

Natural bamboo fibers, known for their competitive manufacturing costs and lightweight yet high specific strength, offer a promising alternative for reinforcing products in the automotive, household, transportation, and sports markets. Additionally, products made with bamboo fabrics achieve an attractive finish, allowing the fabric bonding to be appreciated and providing a natural appearance.

Cobratex tapes have a rectangular cross-section, different from standard yarns and rovings, making weaving challenging. However, Blackfabric has developed a specialized process to weave fabrics up to 200 cm wide in various patterns, including twill, satin, basket, chevron, and herringbone.

The collaboration involves 100% European local manufacturing, ensuring quality, traceability, and transparency in production processes, as well as customized solutions for each project.