Australian biotech firm Nanollose has successfully completed its second pilot production of its ‘Forest-Friendly’ Nullarbor fibes, with management saying it achieved its target objective of increasing microbial cellulose content.
The pilot, run in collaboration with Birla Cellulose - a division of Indian conglomerate Aditya Birla Group and a business unit of Grasim Industries, has produced the first batch of Nullarbor-30.
Approximately 150kg of Nullarbor-30 was made, consisting of 30% microbial cellulose and 70% FSC certified wood pulp. The company also produced its second batch of Nullarbor-20, consisting ~90kg and making up 20% microbial cellulose and 80% FSC certified wood pulp.
Nanollose said the production of Nullarbor-30 at the higher microbial cellulose content of 30% is a significant outcome for this second pilot spin.
In the coming months, Nanollose will work with its network of partners in the global fashion and textile sectors to convert the fibres from this second spin into a range of fabrics and garments. Samples of fabrics made from the first pilot spin have already been sent to several fashion brands for appraisal, with reported positive feedback.
A third pilot spin is scheduled for this quarter, and will target expanded production volumes for Nullarbor-20 and/or Nullarbor-30. Nanollose said this will be informed by further feedback and discussions with fashion brands and manufacturing partners.
Executive chairman Dr Wayne Best said the new milestone adds on to its understanding of Nullarbor fibre technology.
“The key objective of the second pilot run – to increase the microbial cellulose content – was achieved and provides us with significant momentum for the next pilot production run,” Dr Best said. “With these results now under our belt, we look forward to working with our network of leading fashion brands and manufacturing partners to advance the commercialisation of our innovative and eco-friendly Nullarbor fibres and fabrics.”