Artifical spider silk textiles

Introduction

ArtSilkTex builds on the ERC-funded project ARTSILK, in which we recently have succeeded in:

1. Producing artificial spider silk on a scale that, for the first time, opens up the possibility of producing the material for industrial use.
2. Inventing engineered spider silk proteins that can be spun into fibers with significantly enhanced mechanical properties.

Project Goals

In this project, we will manufacture artificial spider silk yarns that will be benchmarked against commonly used yarns on the market. The breakthrough potential of an environmentally friendly, biobased high-performance fiber is great, and our work is expected to result in a material that can be used for many applications and replace some of the petroleum-based synthetic fibers on the market.

Market Analysis

To pinpoint which markets and applications are most suitable to target, get a better understanding of our competitors, and ensure the best possible prerequisites for taking this material to the market, the project comprises four main activities:

1. Generation of an IP strategy.
2. A thorough analysis of the material's life cycle, cost of goods, and carbon footprint.
3. Generation of artificial spider silk yarns and benchmarking against other materials.
4. Business development, including setting up a business plan and the launch of a spin-off company.

Team and Collaboration

We have a strong project team with highly motivated and experienced members with complementary backgrounds, and we have established collaborations with large international companies and potential future customers.