As part of its Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH), Australia’s Deakin University has partnered with Geelong-based startup Xefco to carry out new research that will revolutionize how garments, notably jeans, obtain their color. One of the most popular clothing items in the world, jeans are also one of the least eco-friendly, using over 75 liters of water to dye just one pair.
Working with Xefco, Deakin is investigating if a waterless manufacturing process may take the place of the water-intensive processes that have been employed by the apparel industry for centuries. Ausora is the name of the new technology that is in development, according to a news release from Deakin University.
From Deakin University’s Institute for Frontier Materials, associate professor Alessandra Sutti said it was wonderful to be on the commercialization journey with Xefco, working with the startup to uncover what is feasible and ideally lessen the global footprint of fashion. If successful, the Ausora technique, which colors materials without requiring a lot of water, will bring us one step closer to more effective and environmentally friendly garment production, according to Sutti.
The new pilot facility for Xefco, located at Deakin University in Geelong, will test various materials, including specialized fabrics like waterproof garments like outdoor jackets and trousers, according to firm CEO Tom Hussey.
The REACH project is focused on proving the commercial viability of the technology at a pilot size and creating methods so it can be scaled up for commercial production. This is the first step of Xefco’s ambition for the technology. Deakin and Xefco will work together to push the boundaries of innovation and discover what is possible, according to Hussey.
At ManuFutures, the cutting-edge center for advanced manufacturing on the Deakin campus in Waurn Ponds, Xefco’s pilot plant is housed alongside Deakin researchers.
Xefco, which was established in 2018, today has 17 employees and its products are already changing the globe. Some of the top clothing and fashion companies in the world, such as The North Face, use its XReflex technology, which lowers the usage of insulation materials.
REACH is accelerating business success as markets transition from a throughput economy to a circular economy. It is supported by a $50 million grant from the Australian government’s new Trailblazer Universities Program, with industry and university support bringing the total project value to $380 million.
