Kemira and Metsä Group have joined forces to develop Kuura, a new man-made cellulosic fibre (MMCF) designed to offer a sustainable and scalable alternative to traditional lyocell-type fibres. Kuura is aimed at becoming a cost-effective, fully integrated solution for the textile industry. As an MMCF, it is created from responsibly sourced wood and is designed to have a low environmental impact while also offering a biodegradable and renewable alternative. It also helps address the growing “cotton gap.”

Metsä Group is currently conducting a pre-engineering project to assess the feasibility of launching the Kuura fibre business. With Kemira's deep expertise in chemistry and process engineering, the companies aim to integrate the fibre production process into Metsä Group’s existing pulp manufacturing operations. This collaboration will help streamline production and support future scalability.

“We’re pleased to be chosen as a partner for the development of Kuura fibre,” said Riikka Timonen, Vice President at Kemira. “Our decades of experience in cellulosic fibre chemistry can support the transition to more circular, environmentally friendly materials. Our chemical solutions will help make the process feasible, efficient, and aligned with sustainability goals.”

Niklas von Weymarn, CEO of Metsä Group’s innovation arm, Metsä Spring, emphasized the importance of collaboration in sustainable innovation. “Partnering with Kemira, a global leader in process chemistry, strengthens our efforts to build a sustainable production method for Kuura. Strategic partnerships like this are key to our R\&D success.”