Andritz signed an
equipment development deal with Finnish biotechnology group, Infinited Fiber
Company (IFC), for commercialising textile fibre regeneration technology. Andritz
and IFC have signed a cooperation agreement to develop the process and
equipment solutions for the latter’s textile fibre regeneration technology.
The technology can
turn any cellulose-rich raw material, including discarded textiles, used
cardboard or rice or wheat straw, into cellulose carbamate fibres – unique,
high-quality textile fibres with the look and feel of cotton. Andritz is the
process equipment supplier for the technology. The two companies have worked
together to carry out trials since the end of 2019. Under the newly signed
cooperation agreement, which came into effect on 13, November, 2020, the two
companies will work together to develop the factory process and equipment
solutions, aiming to perfect every step in preparation for the technology to be
scaled up to commercial scale production.
Infinited Fiber
Company currently operates two pilot facilities in Finland. The operations have
a nominal combined capacity of 150 metric tonnes/annum. Under the new
agreement, Andritz and Infinited Fiber Company will spend the next six months
collaborating on the development, testing and validation of the process and equipment
solutions, with Andritz providing equipment for both the mechanical and
chemical pre-treatment processes as well as for the carbamation process. This
will be followed by factory deliveries, with Infinited Fiber Company expecting
to secure a commercial deal or deals during 2021.
Kari Tuominen,
President and CEO of Andritz, said, “Andritz’s equipment and process portfolio
offers good opportunities for fibre production technology, and the cooperation
with Infinited Fiber Company is a significant step towards creating a new type
of textile fibre. Textile waste recirculation is becoming mandatory in the EU
in 2025 and we want to be involved in developing new bio-based fibers from
textile waste and also from other pulp-based materials.â€Â
“Andritz is a leading
factory equipment supplier, and we are delighted to be working with them to
prepare our textile fibre regeneration technology for commercialisation. Bringing
to market a new technology, a new fibre type, and even a new way of operating
in accordance with circular economy principals requires the creation of a
strong ecosystem of experts working towards common goals. We are proud that
ANDRITZ is a key member of this ecosystem.†said, IFC Co-founder and CEO, Petri
Alava.