Biofibres & Biotextiles
Algae represents an emerging platform for the development of next-generation biofibres, textiles, and materials, offering a renewable alternative to petroleum-based inputs. Through controlled cultivation and processing, algal biomass can be transformed into polymers, coatings, and composite fibres suitable for a range of material applications.
Current capabilities focus on extracting and modifying structural and functional compounds to enable fibre formation, material binding, and surface treatments. These include biopolymers with film-forming and gelation properties, as well as pigments and additives that can be incorporated into textile manufacturing processes. Ongoing work is centred on improving material performance, durability, and process scalability.
Industry interest continues to grow, with global brands such as Adidas8 exploring algae-derived materials through research collaborations to develop more sustainable apparel and footwear. These efforts reflect a broader shift toward bio-based inputs and circular material systems, particularly in sectors seeking to reduce reliance on fossil-derived fibres.
In parallel, algae-derived materials show strong potential in adjacent applications such as bio-packaging, where functional performance requirements and sustainability drivers are closely aligned. Continued advances in processing, material engineering, and lifecycle performance will be key to enabling broader commercial adoption.
Key algal-derived compounds for fibres and materials include:
- Polysaccharides– film-forming, gelation, fibre structuring
- Cellulose (microalgal and associated biomass) – structural reinforcement and composite fibres
- Proteins and biopolymers – binding agents and fibre formation support
- Lipids and waxes – coatings and water-resistant treatments
- Pigments (e.g. chlorophylls, carotenoids, phycobiliproteins) – natural colouration and functional additives
- Polyphenols – antioxidant and stabilising properties in material systems
With increasing demand for low-impact, bio-based materials, algae offers a flexible platform for innovation across textiles, composites, and packaging, with strong potential for integration into future circular manufacturing systems.
⁸ Adidas, European Algae Industry Summit, Lisbon, April 19th, 2023”
