Protein Evolution receives funding to scale enzymatic polyester recycling

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected biotechnology company Protein Evolution to lead a project aimed at improving and scaling a biological process that converts polyethylene terephthalate (PET) textile waste into the basic chemical materials needed to produce new polyester.

Protein Evolution, based in New Haven, Connecticut, will work on the project with pilot plant specialist Xytel and the National Laboratory of the Rockies, formerly known as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

The project is one of 56 initiatives receiving a share of $117 million from the DOE’s Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation. The funding programme focuses on reducing manufacturing costs, improving energy efficiency and strengthening domestic supply chains.

Protein Evolution is expected to receive $3 million, although the final funding amount and the company’s required contribution could change as the agreement is finalised.

Recent Posts

Toray creates polyester-nylon composite fiber

Toray Industries has developed a polyester-nylon composite fibre, addressing technical challenges associated with combining recycled polymers.

2 days ago

Suedwolle partners to develop activewear with T2T recycled polyester

Suedwolle Group, UTO and The Lycra Company to develop a performance activewear collection incorporating polyester fibre made from recycled textile…

2 days ago

Triarchy launches collection with WTRLSS dyeing technology

Triarchy has launched its first collection using WTRLSS digital dyeing technology, which can reduce water consumption in dyeing and finishing…

5 days ago

DNM Denim develops zero-water finishes and bio-based blends

DNM Denim is introducing advanced finishing techniques and alternative fibre blends in its SS 28 collection, with a focus on…

5 days ago

Polestar 5 Electric GT uses Bcomp’s flax-based composites

Bcomp has partnered with vehicle manufacturer Polestar to incorporate its lightweight, bio-based materials into the Polestar 5 four-door electric grand…

5 days ago

Outerknown expands Woolaroo collection with recycled fleece

Outerknown has expanded its Woolaroo collection for Fall 2026, introducing fleece garments made with MWool recycled wool from textile manufacturer…

6 days ago