The textile industry uses enormous amounts of natural resources, and offers significant opportunities for innovative entrepreneurs willing to make a difference.
Ioncell® is a startup that offers a sustainable method for producing strong fibers. It uses an ionic liquid to dissolve cellulose from wood pulp or textile waste, creating a cellulose-ionic liquid solution. This solution is spun into fibers through the dry-jet wet spinning process. All parts of this process are recyclable, aligning with circular economy principles.
What kind of product or service is it?
Ioncell® is a sustainable technology that transforms used textiles, pulp, or old newspapers into new textile fibers without the use of harmful chemicals. Its process converts cellulose into fibers that can be made into durable fabrics.
The Ioncell® process uses an ionic liquid solvent to dissolve cellulose. In the dissolved state, cellulose can be transformed into beautiful, strong fibers using dry-jet wet-spinning technology.
How is the solution related to the circular economy?
The only chemicals used are the non-toxic ionic liquid and water, both of which are recirculated in a closed loop. Thanks to their high tenacity, Ioncell® fibers are durable and long-lasting. Additionally, this method is suitable for the recycling of diverse cellulose-based materials.