TAGS: Smart Coatings Sustainability / Natural Coatings
The Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (IMCRC) has granted New Zealand based biotechnology research company, Humble Bee Bio, and Deakin University $70,000 to develop and sample new textile coatings.
Sustainable Alternative Made from Biopolymers
Veronica Harwood-Stevenson, Humble Bee Bio’s CEO and Founder, said the research collaboration would be instrumental to the success of the next stage of development for Humble Bee Bio’s novel biopolymer.
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By mimicking the properties of the solitary masked bee's cellophane-like nesting material, we have created a biopolymer that’s water-repellent and resistant to flames, high temperatures and strong chemicals,” she said.
“This research collaboration will enable Humble Bee Bio to take our proof of concept and develop a formulation and production method for sustainable DWR biopolymer coatings."
“Australia is poised to become an advanced biomanufacturing center of the world, and we are thrilled to be part of building that success."
Commitment Toward Circular Economy
Professor Joselito Razal, Director of ARC Research Hub for Future Fibers at IFM, said the project reinforced Deakin’s commitment to re-designing materials for a circular economy.
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Deakin University will utilize its world class expertise and facilities in fiber and materials science to facilitate Humble Bee Bio’s vision of a sustainable Australian textile industry,” he said.
Dr Dylan Hegh, IFM’s Circular Economy Initiatives Manager and project lead, added that the research would provide Humble Bee Bio with an advanced understanding of the novel material and its properties.
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In refining the formulation, this collaboration has the potential to uncover new and unforeseen applications for the biopolymer and catalyze further research and development into advanced biomanufacturing,” he said.
Dr Matthew Young, IMCRC’s Manufacturing Innovation Manager, said IMCRC was pleased to be supporting the industry-university research collaboration by co-funding the development of Humble Bee Bio’s biopolymer.
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Novel advanced materials are playing a crucial role in achieving a more sustainable future for Australia and the rest of the world,” he said.
“Once commercialized, Humble Bee Bio’s sustainable DWR coatings have the potential to bridge a significant gap that exists within the textiles industry today.”
“By uniting industries and research institutions, we create an ecosystem that drives innovation and commercialization, generating significant opportunities in specialized, high-value manufacturing.”
Source: IMCRC