Bio-Engineered Dyeing Innovations for Sustainable Cotton Textiles

Introduction

The environmental and societal impact of fabric dyeing is a critical concern, with the textile industry ranking among the most chemically intensive and the second-largest polluter of clean water globally. Traditional dyeing methods consume large amounts of water and energy, release toxic chemicals, and contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Thus, there is an urgent need for sustainable dyeing innovations that reduce chemical usage and conserve water.

Project Objectives

In this ERC PoC, we aim to develop and implement a novel eco-friendly textile dyeing method that combines the design of genetically engineered colored proteins with a non-toxic, zero-waste innovative application methodology. This approach will eliminate toxic waste and pollution while significantly reducing water consumption.

Methodology

In this project, we aim to:

1. Rationally design and express heat-resistant blue chromoproteins (i.e., aeBlue) from the coral Aquinia equina in a bacterial chassis (Escherichia coli).
2. Demonstrate that these proteins can be bound covalently to cotton fibers to dye the fibers similarly to DENIM, using sugar cross-linkers at temperatures above 40°C.

This biologically inspired protein-based dyeing approach for textiles can be further explored using other chromoproteins found in different organisms, offering a palette of natural colors and opening new avenues for a future sustainable alternative for fabric dyeing.

Background

This PoC builds on the findings of the ERC-CoG-funded project BIOMATFAB, which explored sugar uptake and transport in cotton fibers. In collaboration with European textile industry stakeholders, this PoC aims to explore and demonstrate the commercial feasibility of our dyeing methodology.

Market Analysis

We will aim to understand:

• Consumer needs
• Market segments
• Competition

This analysis will help define a robust business model that ensures the long-term sustainability of our commercialization efforts.

Conclusion

Our innovative project represents a significant step toward reducing the environmental footprint of the European textile industry.