Solena Materials, The Protein Express to scale protein-based textile fibers

Solena Materials, a spinout from Imperial College London founded in 2022, has partnered with Dutch biotechnology company The Protein Express on a new development programme aimed at accelerating the large-scale production of innovative protein fibres.

The main aim of the project is not just to develop another bio-based fibre concept, but to build a complete production platform that can manufacture protein fibres at industrial scale and competitive cost.

An important part of the programme involves creating protein sequences specifically designed for both high performance and easier manufacturing. Instead of copying natural proteins, Solena develops entirely new protein structures that can be adjusted at the molecular level to achieve desired properties.

These newly designed proteins will then be produced using The Protein Express’s fermentation technology, which the companies believe can solve one of the biggest challenges in protein materials, affordable large-scale production.

Recent Posts

Huhtamaki, Hesburger introduce plant-based fiber lids

Huhtamaki and Hesburger are expanding their long-standing partnership with the development of new fibre lids created for everyday foodservice use.

2 hours ago

Lindex, BASF to introduce recycled polyamide in intimate wear

Lindex has partnered with BASF to bring loopamid recycled polyamide 6 into the lingerie category. Loopamid is produced from post-industrial…

1 day ago

Canopy report highlights wheat straw as alternative for fibers

A report by environmental nonprofit Canopy has revealed that wheat straw can be used to produce high-quality viscose and lyocell…

1 day ago

CUTIS Paris, Fulgar redefines lingerie with inclusivity sustainability

CUTIS Paris has reimagined the idea of nude lingerie through science and inclusivity by including mineral-inspired shades such as Dune,…

1 day ago

Trident Group, ICAR-NINFET to develop sustainable natural fiber textiles

Trident Group is focusing on textile innovation through a strategic collaboration with ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology.

2 days ago

Bangladesh factories use ThreadBridge’s AI smart glasses for defect detection

ThreadBridge has announced that its AI-powered smart glasses have helped save 37 tons of carbon emissions across four garment factories…

2 days ago