Winners of Microfiber Innovation Challenge share $525,000 prize
Five companies behind innovations that seek to end microplastic pollution will share a $525,000 prize pot as part of Conservation X Labs’ Microfiber Innovation Challenge.
The solutions aim to prevent or reduce the shedding of microscopic fibres that pollute air and waterways when fibres break off clothing during everyday wear, the laundry and disposal.
The competition had submissions from 19 countries and is funded by the Flotilla Foundation and The Arthur Vining Davis
Dr Alex Dehgan, CEO of Conservation X Labs, said: “These five winners each share a revolutionary potential to protect planetary health and stop the harm from microplastic pollution on ecosystems and human health.
“These tiny plastics and fibres are found in our drinking water, the food we eat and even the air we breathe. These innovations will play a crucial role in creating sustainable textiles for the future.”
A panel of seven judges made up of representatives from the clothing industry, materials scientists, conservationists and investors, selected the winners based on criteria that included feasibility, potential for growth, environmental impact and novelty of their approach.
The winners are:
• Mango Materials
Based in San Francisco, US. Mango Materials uses an innovative manufacturing technology to turn methane from waste carbon emissions into biodegradable biopolyester fibres.
• Natural Fiber Welding
Based in Peoria, Illinois, US. Natural Fiber Welding manipulates hydrogen bonds in natural fibres (such as cotton), to determine their form and shape at the molecular level.
• PANGAIA x MTIX Microfiber Mitigation
Based in London and West Yorkshire, UK. PANGAIA and MTIX are two materials science companies that are working together on a novel application of MTIX’s Multiplexed Laser Surface Enhancement technology to strengthen the surfaces of fibres within a fabric to prevent microfiber shedding.
• Tandem Repeat Technologies
Based in Pennsylvania, US. Tandem Repeat Technologies uses genetic sequencing and synthetic biology to produce a new fibre, Squitex, that is based on a protein structure originally found in the tentacles of squid.
• Werewool
Based in New York, USA. Werewool designs fibres at the DNA level with tailored characteristics such as colour, elasticity or moisture management.
The winners are eligible for additional funding from Conservation X Labs of $25,000 each as they work towards commercialisation goals in 2022. They will also be invited to showcase their innovations at a Solutions Fair at sportswear brand Under Armour’s headquarters in Baltimore later this year.
Kyle Blakely, vice-president of materials and manufacturing innovation at Under Armour, said: “Under Armour is excited to be a partner on Conservation X Labs' Microfiber Innovation Challenge,” said “The winning innovations are at the forefront of the field using technology to create next-generation fibres for sportswear and apparel that will allow brands like Under Armour to meet our sustainability goals.”
Image: Tandem Repeat Technologies’ new fibre, Squitex, is based on a protein structure originally found in the tentacles of squid.
Photo by Jonathan Diemel on Unsplash
