Bio-based residual streams with potential in the technical textile industry
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Högskolan i Borås |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 000 000 |
| Project duration | November 2021 - June 2025 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Circular and biobased economy |
| Call | Increased resource efficiency for a circular industry |
Important results from the project
The project met all goals, developing sustainable processes for fibre extraction from hemp and other agricultural residues, scaling up at Ekolution’s facility, and producing nonwoven prototypes for construction, vehicles and technical textiles. Results improved Ekolution’s fibre quality, broadened knowledge on agricultural residues, and increased visibility through conferences, awards, and a royal visit.
Expected long term effects
The project is expected to increase the use of bio-based materials and residual streams, particularly in construction, automotive, and technical textiles. By developing processes for fibre extraction from hemp and other agricultural residues, it creates new industrial value chains, improves resource efficiency, and reduces climate impact, strengthening Sweden’s position in the circular bioeconomy and sustainable innovation.
Approach and implementation
The project was carried out in close collaboration between academia and industry, including development of sustainable fibre extraction processes, testing, prototype production, and scale-up at Ekolution’s facility. The project met all goals but required a longer project period as one party dropped out and another went bankrupt during the project period. Technical adjustments during scale-up improved processes and fibre quality.