Sparxell, a science-driven colour innovation company spun out of the University of Cambridge, has launched the world’s first commercially available plant-based, structurally coloured textile ink in partnership with Positive Materials. This revolutionary ink offers a dye-free alternative for the fashion industry, eliminating harmful dyes, plastics, metals, and minerals from textile colouration.
Made entirely from biodegradable, plant-based cellulose, the ink mimics the optical effects found in nature (such as Morpho butterfly wings) to produce rich, vibrant colours through light reflection rather than chemical pigmentation. Initially released in Sparxell’s signature blue, the ink is available in both matte and shimmer finishes and can be purchased in kilogram quantities starting late June 2025.
By partnering with Positive Materials, a leading textile manufacturer focused on sustainable innovation, Sparxell is able to scale production while maintaining high environmental standards. The collaboration enables easy adoption by brands of all sizes, from luxury houses to emerging designers, without the need for bespoke development processes.
The ink addresses widespread sustainability concerns, particularly the fashion industry’s dependency on harmful dyeing processes that contribute significantly to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Sparxell plans to expand its colour range throughout 2025, making sustainable, structurally coloured fabrics more accessible across global fashion supply chains. This milestone is backed by Sparxell’s recent €1.9 million grant from the European Innovation Council and its inclusion in the LVMH La Maison des Startups programme.