Grantee Research Project Results
Transforming Agricultural Waste into Bio-based, Nontoxic, and Biodegradable Fibers and Yarns
EPA Contract Number: 68HERC25C0018Title: Transforming Agricultural Waste into Bio-based, Nontoxic, and Biodegradable Fibers and Yarns
Investigators: Saremi, Raha
Small Business: EcoaTEX, LLC.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: I
Project Period: December 16, 2024 through June 15, 2025
Project Amount: $100,000
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase I (2025) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Description:
EcoaTEX is pioneering a transformative technology that converts agricultural waste into high-performance, bio-based, nontoxic, and biodegradable fibers, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like cotton and synthetic fibers. Conventional cotton production, while widely used, relies heavily on pesticides and vast amounts of water, contributing to significant environmental challenges, including soil degradation, water scarcity, and pollution. Additionally, synthetic fibers, which dominate the textile industry, are derived from nonrenewable resources and contribute to microplastic pollution, which has widespread environmental and health impacts.
In contrast, EcoaTEX’s innovative process harnesses agricultural waste, which would otherwise contribute to environmental pollution, as a raw material to produce eco-friendly fibers. This approach not only reduces the reliance on harmful agricultural practices but also minimizes the release of toxic chemicals, greenhouse gases, and microplastics into the environment. By utilizing agricultural byproducts, EcoaTEX helps prevent the burning of waste, a common practice that releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and local air quality issues.
A key feature of this technology is its closed-loop system. At the end of the product’s life cycle, the fibers can be recycled and repurposed into new fibers, further reducing waste and enhancing sustainability. This closed-loop approach ensures that the materials remain within the economy for as long as possible, reducing the need for virgin resources and minimizing environmental impact.
EcoaTEX’s technology also aligns with broader sustainability goals by prioritizing source reduction, reuse, and recycling, thereby conserving natural resources, reducing energy consumption, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The innovation supports the circular economy by turning waste into valuable products, significantly reducing the environmental burdens associated with landfilling, incineration, and resource extraction.
Commercial potential for this technology is vast, particularly within the textile industry, where there is an increasing demand for sustainable materials. By converting agricultural waste into valuable fibers, EcoaTEX not only offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional fibers but also supports local economies by providing farmers with a sustainable outlet for their waste. This approach not only helps farmers economically but also prevents the environmental damage associated with traditional waste disposal methods.
In summary, EcoaTEX’s technology offers a scalable and sustainable solution that addresses multiple environmental challenges, supports economic growth, and aligns with global efforts to create a more sustainable and circular economy. The potential for positive environmental impact and strong commercial viability make this technology a compelling choice for investment and further development.
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.