Qmilk biopolymer
QMILK is a biopolymer fibre derived from non-food milk and 100% renewable raw materials.
Production process
Using a patented upcycling process, QMILK is made from milk proteins extracted from non-food milk that would otherwise be a huge waste.
The circular material is based on the polymer of milk protein casein. Casein is manufactured from raw milk that is no longer in a state of consumption and according to legal regulations, it can’t be used as food. Despite that, it still contains valuable ingredients and is a precious commodity, having the potential for technical purposes.
QMILK is the sole natural fibre with thermo-bonding properties. The bonding and stabilization are through thermal treatment to 100 ° C with pressure.
Material properties
QMILK fibres are 100% natural, soft to the touch and dermatologically proven, hence quite suitable for sensitive skin. With a natural antibacterial effect and strong hydrophilia, QMILK is the sole natural fibre having thermo-bonding properties. It can also be used to connect other natural fibres without conventional plastics or phenolic resins. In this way, lightweight constructions remain 100% natural and can be composted as well.
QMILK has great moisture management as well as bright colours and is odourless. The QMILK fibre has a natural cooling handle through capturing heat, therefore having a high heat capacity.
QMILK can be spun with yarns, non-wovens and felt. Hence, it opens exciting possibilities for composites.
It has a variety of applications in the fashion industry, automotive and furniture-making. QMILK can also be used as film/foil in the food industry due to its excellent barrier properties (owing to casein). Milk-white to clear packaging can be made with this biopolymer.
Circular features
QMILK fibres are made of 100% organic polymer without any plasticizers, solvents and chemical cross-linkers.
The manufacturing process is water and energy-efficient with zero waste. Two million tonnes of milk is thrown away annually in Germany itself. This milk is unsuitable for edible use and is expensively disposed of as unused secondary waste. Hence, QMILK utilizes this non-food milk along with 100% renewable raw materials.
Biodegradation and decomposition of QMILK take place without temperature supply, and hence no industrial composting is necessary.
QMILK was awarded The Green Tec Awards in 2015.
Raw Materials
- Non-edible milk
- Renewable raw materials
Afterlife Plan
- Home-compostable with kitchen waste
- It can be safely disposed of in the garden composter as it breaks down free of residues in a few months
Availability
Germany
Supplier
Image source: QMILK