A Perth-based scientist has developed a breakthrough replacement for environmentally damaging textiles.
Cass Materials, founded by Gary Cass in 2020, has developed an innovative technique to produce a regenerated cellulose textile called Kylarr fibres.
With additional expertise from Treetops Colour Harmonies’ Nancy Ballesterosm, a Perth-based textile designer, the duo has been able to produce a beanie using fabric knitted from Kyalaarr fibres blended with ultrafine Australian Merino wool. The ratio is 35% fibres to 65% wool.
The process employed means that no toxic chemicals are used to dissolve the raw materials.
“I suspect most people buying clothes don’t understand the harsh and extremely damaging environmental impacts of manufacturing fabrics for the clothes they wear,” said Mr Cass.
We have been trying to develop technology to solve this problem for years and finally we have accomplished a great result with the invention of Kylarr fibres.
Gary Cass, Cass Materials Founder
Overseas support
Unfortunately, like many startups, Mr Cass has been unable to find backing in Australia, and so is moving to Sweden.
For years, efforts have been underway in the Nordic country to solve environmental problems associated with producing textiles.
Once the Swedish government heard about the technology developed by Cass Materials, representatives came knocking to get Mr Cass to Sweden in order to develop the Kylarr fibres to a more commercial stage.
“The next challenge is to industrialise the technology,” said Mr Cass.
“The less chemicals used in the production of textiles, the better the outcome for the fashion industry and the environment moving forward.”
Kylarr fibres aim to meet the sustainable development goals of the United Nations, thanks to having minimal impact to terrestrial or marine ecosystems when produced. This falls under Cass Materials’ own mission to transform the fashion industry from one representing industrialisation to environmentalism.
Kylarr fibres are set to join the Rayon/Viscose market, which is predicted to grow to US$21 billion (AU$27.7 billion) by 2024 at a compound annual growth rate of 7.8%.
“Some of the many outstanding features of Kylarr fibres are that they drape like a dream, wicks moisture away from the body and feels cool and silky soft next to your skin,” added Ms Ballesteros.
By blending it with ultrafine Merino wool, which is super soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and resilient – the resulting fabric is transformed into a softer, more durable, faster drying (three times faster than merino alone) natural fibre fabric, great for both high performance and luxury wear.
Nancy Ballesteros, Treetops Colour Harmonies
