Spinnova partners with Kemira to develop eco-friendly inherent fiber dyeing method

Spinnova, a Finnish sustainable material company has entered a long-term partnership with the global chemicals company, Kemira, to develop a highly eco-friendly inherent fiber dyeing method. Dyeing fiber in its manufacturing process could benefit both the textile industry and the environment significantly.

Inherent dyeing in the Spinnova process means that the cellulosic fiber mass is coloured before being extruded into the filament. This reduces the amount of water, energy, heavy metals, and other dangerous compounds used in the subsequent procedures of dyeing fiber, thread, and fabric.

Spinnova’s sustainable fiber and the possibility of inherently dyeing the fiber might be an environmental game-changer, disrupting processes such as denim dyeing. The textile dyeing and finishing business are one of the most chemically demanding industries in the world, as well as one of the biggest freshwater pollutants. Thousands of chemicals are used in the conventional textile industry in various manufacturing processes such as dyeing and printing.

Spinnova’s CEO and co-founder Janne Poranen, said that in addition to being the most environmentally friendly method of dyeing, the fiber retains its natural color quite well. They have already conducted some successful trials, and the findings are quite encouraging.

Spinnova’s breakthrough stems from the pulp and paper sector, which is also one of Kemira’s areas of expertise and a key emphasis in the company’s research and development efforts for bio-based chemicals.

Poranen added that in some ways, they’ve returned to their beginnings in order to increase the quality of the product they’ve made while retaining their zero tolerance for dangerous substances.

Kemira’s Director of Global Business Development Mats Berg said that Kemira has string expertise in chemical applications for the pulp and paper industry, as well as a long history of helping their clients’ raw water, energy, and resource efficiency. In partnership with Spinnova, they can use their unique know-how to the creation of new textile innovations, not only in dyeing but also in improving other aspects of sustainable textile fiber,  such as hydrophobicity and strength.

Spinnova’s aim is to collaborate with brand owners on application development before the fiber is commercially accessible.

Poranen concludes that it is gratifying to see how devoted brand owners are to sustainability and working with them to build these sustainable solutions.

Spinnova is now seeking a brand partner for its revolutionary dyeing development.