Kintra Fibers, Selenis to scale biodegradable polyester alternative

Kintra Fibers is moving closer to commercialisation of its next-generation fibre by partnering with Selenis. The collaboration aims to scale production of Kintra’s fibre-grade polybutylene succinate (PBS), a fully bio-based and biodegradable alternative to traditional polyester.

Under the agreement, Selenis will act as the industrial manufacturing partner, using its existing production infrastructure to produce the material at a commercial scale. The fibre will be manufactured through Selenis’ Texnascis platform, which could make it easier for textile mills and suppliers to adopt the material using current systems.

The new PBS-based fibre is designed to work on existing PET and fibre extrusion systems. This means manufacturers can use it without making major changes to their machinery or production processes.

Eduardo Santos from Selenis said the company sees strong potential in innovations that combine sustainability with commercial feasibility. He noted that Kintra’s fibre has been developed for both performance and large-scale production, and the partnership will help bring it to market.

Billy McCall, CEO and co-founder of Kintra Fibers, said choosing the right manufacturing partner was critical. He added that Selenis provides the expertise and infrastructure needed to produce the fibre at the quality and volume required by the market.