The initiative could expand the potential applications of SPINNOVA® fibre into higher-value technical textiles, including performance apparel and insulation materials, where thermal management, comfort and lightweight construction are important requirements.

Combining cellulose-based fibres with thermal management technologies

SPINNOVA® fibre is produced through a mechanical process without dissolving the cellulose or using harmful chemicals. The technology is designed to convert wood pulp and other cellulose-based raw materials into textile fibres.

Outlast contributes established technologies for temperature regulation and thermal insulation. Its Outlast® Temperature Regulation technology, based on innovations originally developed for NASA, uses phase change materials (PCMs) to absorb, store and release heat, helping to regulate temperature fluctuations.

The company's AERSULATE® technology uses aerogel-based insulation to provide thermal protection in lightweight and thin material constructions.

The two companies will investigate whether these technologies can be combined with SPINNOVA® fibre to develop differentiated textile materials with enhanced functional properties.

Potential for new performance textile applications

“We want SPINNOVA® fibre to compete on performance as well as natural comfort,” says Mikko Lassila, Chief Commercial Officer of Spinnova. “Outlast brings established technologies for temperature regulation and insulation, and this collaboration gives us an opportunity to explore how they can be combined with our fibre. If successful, we believe this could open new applications for SPINNOVA® fibre, broaden our addressable markets, and support our long-term commercial scale-up strategy.”

For Spinnova, the initiative represents an opportunity to explore additional applications beyond conventional textile products, particularly in segments where functional performance can create added value.

Outlast sees potential in evaluating the compatibility of its thermal management solutions with the cellulose-based fibre.

“SPINNOVA® fibre presents an interesting opportunity to explore new applications for our functional technologies,” says Martin Bentz, Chief Executive Officer of Outlast. “We look forward to evaluating how our temperature regulation and insulation solutions can be combined with Spinnova’s fibre to create differentiated materials that meet the performance requirements of our customers.”

The agreement marks an initial stage of cooperation. Further development and evaluation will determine whether the combination of SPINNOVA® fibre and Outlast's technologies can meet the technical requirements for future commercial textile applications.