Plantae and Zylotex to Scale Hemp-Based Lyocell Fiber in Canada
Plantae Technologies Inc., a Canadian sustainable fiber innovator, has signed an exclusive joint development agreement with Zylotex Inc., a global leader in hemp-based cellulosic fibers. The partnership will commercialize geometrically refined hemp bast fibers for use in lyocell fiber production using Zylotex’s proprietary pulping and extrusion technologies.
The collaboration aims to move from pilot to full-scale production, using Canadian-grown hemp and an environmentally friendly lyocell process to create sustainable regenerated cellulose fibers. Plantae’s refining method uses no water or chemicals and consumes minimal energy, offering a zero-waste, low-impact approach. Their process enhances natural fibers by leveraging fracture points for precision refinement, making it suitable for a range of applications.
“This milestone partnership allows us to deliver a next-generation sustainable fiber at commercial scale,” said Denis Taschuk, CEO of Plantae Technologies, and Ken Barker, CEO of Zylotex, in a joint statement. “Together, we’re creating a Canadian supply chain for high-performance, renewable lyocell yarns that could help alleviate the projected 35 million ton cotton shortfall by 2050, while reducing reliance on synthetic fibers and microplastic pollution.”
Applications for the new hemp-based lyocell fibers include geotextiles, nonwovens, composites, and spun yarn industries.