PHA in the Textile Fibres Sector for Sustainable Fashion
PHA is emerging as an innovative solution for the manufacture of sustainable textile fibres. This bioplastic, produced by bacteria, has properties that are attracting the attention of fashion professionals.
PHA Sourcing, Your Ally for More Sustainable Fashion
In a rapidly changing textile sector, the integration of sustainable materials such as PHA is becoming a necessity. PHA Sourcing is the ideal partner to support manufacturers in this transition. As a specialist in the production and integration of PHA, our company offers tailored solutions.
PHA in textile fibres: a technological and ecological turning point
The manufacture of PHA textile fibres
The production of PHA textile fibres follows a similar process to that of synthetic fibres such as polyester. PHA bioplastic is transformed into filaments using techniques such as extrusion. These are then woven to produce fabrics with similar or even better characteristics!
The benefits of PHA fibres
- Biodegradability: unlike traditional synthetic fibres, PHA fibres break down naturally.
- Lightweight and strong: PHA textiles are lightweight but strong, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Comfort: PHA fibres offer good breathability, making garments more comfortable.
The PHA fibre production process
Cultivation of microorganisms
The production of PHA biopolymers begins with the cultivation of specific bacteria capable of producing this bioplastic. These are grown in fermenters where they convert carbon sources, such as sugars or oils, into PHA. This fermentation process is the result of nutrient stress in which the micro-organisms produce these granules as a source of energy. They are then harvested, purified and processed for use in the manufacture of textile fibres.
Spinning PHA fibres
Purified PHA is melted and extruded to form continuous filaments. These filaments are then stretched to improve their mechanical properties. The process is comparable to that used to produce synthetic fibres such as polyester. On the other hand (and you guessed it), its ecological footprint is much smaller.
The benefits of PHA for the textile fibres sector
Reducing environmental impact
PHA fibres break down naturally in a variety of environments, reducing plastic pollution. Their biodegradability makes them an attractive alternative to synthetic fibres, which can take centuries to degrade. This would minimise the 270kg/person carbon footprint estimated in 2020.
Adaptability of production processes
PHA can be converted into fibres using the same equipment as for synthetic plastics. This flexibility allows textile manufacturers to minimise investment costs while adopting a more sustainable solution. In addition, PHA can be blended with other materials to optimise its mechanical and aesthetic properties. It’s easy to produce ethically!
Compliance with environmental regulations
PHA’s environmental certifications bear witness to this. Regulations on plastics and textile waste are becoming increasingly stringent. This means that the fashion industry has to renew itself. Through upcycling, organic fabrics and recycled materials, a new step has to be taken. Integrating PHA into the textile fibres sector enables them to comply with these new standards, without sacrificing quality. In short, high-performance materials that respect the environment.
Use of PHA in the textile sector
Fashion and clothing
The fashion sector is turning to PHA to produce in a (more) sensible way. PHA is used in the manufacture of environmentally-friendly and therefore ethical clothing. The use of PHA in the textile sector helps to reduce textile waste and represents a major challenge for the environment. A number of biotech start-ups are also working on biomaterials that can be worn next to the skin!
PHA sportswear
PHA textiles have moisture-absorbing properties and high UV resistance. These characteristics make them the material of choice for technical clothing and outdoor equipment. As well as being lightweight, PHA is also highly resistant to abrasion. In short, it’s the perfect candidate.
PHA technical materials
PHA can also be used to manufacture technical textiles such as geotextiles. Thanks to its biocompatible, permeable and biodegradable properties, it can be used in a variety of sensitive environments where durability is paramount.
PHA and its potential for circularity
We need to promote the circular economy. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting, but fortunately we can do things differently. PHA offers an interesting potential for circularity, without drawing on natural resources. Clothing and textiles made from PHA could be composted at the end of their life cycle. Biodegradable clothing is the future of our society. Through a closed supply chain, waste and the associated carbon footprint are minimised.
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