Development of a New Poly-L-Lactic Acid Polymer Textile and Material Production Process Using Food Waste as Feedstock

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Despite the growing popularity of polylactic acid (PLA) in the field of sustainable materials, the biopolymerhas yet to be leveraged in one of the most polluting industries on the planet - textile manufacturing. As thedemand for fashion continues to grow, textile production cannot continue to happen at the cost of the planet. A rising bio cleantech company that raised $1.5M with EDC for commercialization support and export market development and recently accepted into the Creative Destructive Lab, ALT TEX is creating sustainable fabric solutions for eco-conscious fashion retailers. The optimality of PLA's use in textile applications has been validated through ALT TEX's research. However, there is an opportunity to improve sustainability. The proposed collaborative project with Lambton College's Bio-industrial Process Research Center (BPRC) and ALT TEX will focus on developing a Poly-L-Lactic Acid polymer, generated using food waste as the feedstock. Further, modifying its mechanical properties to create an apparel-grade polymer that holds the mechanical and thermal specifications of textile manufacturing and apparel lifecycle.The goal of the proposed research is to develop a new biodegradable textile and clothing materialproduction process based on novel technology and provide the opportunity for large-scale production. The project's success will propel the presence of the company in the large synthetic fabrics sector. Over thelong term, this innovation has the potential to create up to $4 billion in annual recurring revenue, through theprojected market capture of 15-20 brands annually. Further, securing existing employment and creatingadditional direct full-time positions at the company. This technology will place Canada on the cutting edgeof sustainable chemistry technology, contribute to the developing bio-hub in southern Ontario, and grow Canada's textile industry.