PENGUIN · Bioinspired and advanced fibres and materials for sustainable outdoor textiles with biomimetic functionalities

PENGUIN aims to develop sustainable materials for outdoor garments. Its highlight lies on cellulose-based fibres for producing sustainable insulation material that mimic the way penguins protect themselves against cold and moisture on land. The goal of PENGUIN is to ensure Europe's role as a world-leading technology provider and research leader in the textile sector through collaboration between Europe's leading experts in advanced material value chain and reduce the environmental impact of the outdoor garment industry and address sustainability and ethical concerns of consumers. Specifically, PENGUIN aims to develop sustainable and recyclable textile fibres based on wood cellulose with enhanced hydrophobicity, adhesion, and tailored morphology to create ethically responsible and sustainable insulation materials for textiles. PENGUIN will develop fabrics that incorporate advanced biomimetic functionalities and digital tools for optimal performance. The reuse and recycling plan together with developed recycling technologies will ensure that the end-product is disposed of responsibly, further contributing to the circular economy. Furthermore, PENGUIN aims to ensure that the developed textile materials are safe and sustainable; low-cost and low-resource; and gain market adoption and stakeholder acceptance for the new products. PENGUIN will achieve these objectives through innovation activities and partnerships, optimizing, developing and validating new materials and production methods. Overall, PENGUIN has the potential to transform the textile industry by creating sustainable, efficient, and high-performance textile materials. PENGUIN will contribute to industrial leadership, increased autonomy in strategic value chains, and security of supply in raw materials for resilient industry.