Transforming CO₂ Waste into High-Performance Foam for Sustainable Fashion

In a significant breakthrough for sustainable fashion, Fullstride Ventures has unveiled the carboncup™, a high-performance foam bra cup that promises the same comfort, breathability, and durability as its conventional counterparts. What sets this product apart is its unique composition: it is made from a special polymer derived from captured CO₂ emissions, showcasing a new frontier in eco-friendly materials.

The Innovation Behind carboncup™

The creation of the carboncup™ foam starts with a meticulous process that captures CO₂, which is typically released into the atmosphere. Infinium, a leader in transforming emissions, converts this waste CO₂ into eNaphtha, a low-carbon alternative to traditional fossil-derived naphtha. Borealis then polymerizes this eNaphtha into polyethylene, the raw material used for producing the foam. This innovative approach not only minimizes carbon footprints but also utilizes existing manufacturing and recycling infrastructures effectively.

A Step Towards Circularity in Fashion

The carboncup™ marks an essential milestone towards circularity in the intimate apparel sector. According to Yossi Nasser, CEO of Fullstride, "This revolutionary innovation not only diverts carbon from the atmosphere but also reduces our reliance on limited fossil resources." The foam used in carboncup™ provides the same comfort and support as conventional polyurethane pads but comes with a significantly lower carbon footprint.

Industry Impact and Future Prospects

Infinium's commercial availability of eNaphtha paves the way for decarbonizing plastic production and lowering global CO₂ emissions. Their facility in Corpus Christi, Texas, is certified ISCC PLUS, ensuring that sustainable raw material traceability is maintained through the supply chain. Robert Schuetzle, CEO of Infinium, emphasizes, "By creating eNaphtha that allows Borealis to produce low-carbon plastics, we are driving entire industries toward a cleaner future."

The carboncup™ is just one of the first products emerging from the partnership between Borealis and Infinium, which was announced in August 2024. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the use of captured CO₂ in generating low-carbon plastics. Dirk Langhammer, Vice President of Circular Economy Solutions, notes that this project demonstrates the power of innovation in providing circular solutions, especially in delicate applications such as intimate wear.

Upcoming Showcase at K Show 2025

Carboncup™ will be showcased at the K Show 2025, taking place in Düsseldorf, Germany, from October 8 to 15, 2025. Attendees can find samples at Hall 6, Stand A43, and see firsthand how this innovation could reshape the future of fashion fabric.

About the Companies Involved

Borealis

Borealis stands as a leading global provider of advanced and sustainable polyolefin solutions. The company is recognized for its innovative approaches toward recycling polyolefins and solid chemical products, serving over 120 countries with a mission to transform essential products for sustainable living. Borealis employs around 6,200 individuals and reported a net profit of €566 million in 2024.

Infinium

Infinium is pioneering in the conversion of gases and developing eFuel projects. Their offerings include synthetic e-fuels aimed at achieving low carbon solutions for various energy needs. Infinium is a trailblazer in producing clean power-to-liquid e-fuels and prides itself on providing holistic solutions that guide clients through their energy transformation journeys.

Fullstride Ventures

Founded in 2018, Fullstride is committed to creating innovative, sustainable materials that reduce environmental impact while meeting modern consumer demands. They first gained attention in 2021 with the launch of their plant-based foam product for bras, highlighting their dedication to pushing boundaries in textile sustainability.

Conclusion

The launch of the carboncup™ not only signifies a promising future for sustainable fashion but also illustrates the potential held by collaborations across various sectors. With progressive innovations like this, the fashion industry is on the verge of positively altering its environmental impact, setting a precedent for future developments.