Milk-based textile factory set for launch
German company QMilch, which makes textiles from casein, a fibre derived from milk protein, has said its new production facility is ready to go on stream in April.
“Approximately 20% of milk produced in Europe doesn’t satisfy strict food standards and is considered waste,” says managing director Anke Domaske, who formed the company after reading about the fibre’s perceived skin compatibility.
Casein protein appears once the milk turns sour, water is added and the mixture ground into a paste. The pulp is pushed through a spinneret to form the fibre. Compared with standard casein production, the new process is quicker, requires very little water and fewer chemicals, adds Ms Domaske, with the resulting textile biodegradable and Global Organic Textile Standard certified.
More than 600 companies have expressed an interest in collaborating and the new plant will have a capacity of 1,000 tonnes per year.
See the latest edition of WSA for an article on bio-based fibres and fabrics.
