Transforming Residual CO₂ into High-Performance Foam for Sustainable Fashion
Transforming CO₂ into Sustainable Fashion Foam
In an innovative move towards sustainable fashion, Fullstride Ventures has unveiled carboncup™, a high-performance foam created from captured carbon dioxide (CO₂). This groundbreaking product is not only C02-derived but aims to revolutionize how we think about materials in the textile industry. Offering the same level of comfort, breathability, and durability found in conventional materials, carboncup™ sets a new standard in eco-friendly fashion.
The Technology Behind carboncup™
The development of this unique foam begins with a multistage process that channels residual CO₂, which would typically be released into the atmosphere. The pioneering technology developed by Infinium captures CO₂ emissions and transforms them into electronic naphtha (eNaphtha), a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuel-derived naphtha. This eNaphtha is then polymerized by Borealis into polyethylene, which serves as the core material for producing the foam.
The result is a sustainable, high-performance foam that aligns seamlessly with existing manufacturing and recycling infrastructures, fulfilling the rigorous requirements of underwear applications without compromising on quality.
A Sustainable Leap Forward
The introduction of carboncup™ marks a significant step toward achieving circularity in the underwear sector. As explained by Yossi Nasser, CEO of Fullstride, "This revolutionary innovation not only diverts carbon from entering the atmosphere but also diminishes our reliance on finite fossil resources." The product boasts a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional polyurethane pads made from 100% fossil fuels, emphasizing its role in promoting sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Infinium stands out as one of the first organizations to provide eNaphtha on a commercial scale, thereby paving new avenues for decarbonizing plastic production and reducing global CO₂ emissions. The foam material is produced at Infinium’s Pathfinder Project plant located in Corpus Christi, Texas, which holds ISCC PLUS certification. This certification guarantees the traceability of sustainably-produced raw materials, ensuring accountability throughout the supply chain via a mass balance approach.
A Collaboration for a Cleaner Future
Robert Schuetzle, CEO of Infinium, noted, “Together with Fullstride Ventures and Borealis, we are reimagining the potential of carbon.” By developing eNaphtha that allows Borealis to manufacture cutting-edge plastics with drastically reduced carbon footprints, the partnership is steering entire industries towards a cleaner future.
The carboncup™ is one of the pioneering results from the partnership announced between Borealis and Infinium, aiming to utilize eNaphtha from captured CO₂ to manufacture low-carbon plastics. The launch of this product symbolizes an important milestone in the textile industry and showcases how collaborative efforts across the value chain can lead to innovative solutions for maintaining carbon utilization while reducing atmospheric levels.
Displaying Innovation at K Show 2025
The innovative carboncup™ will be showcased at the upcoming K Show 2025 in Düsseldorf, Germany, scheduled from October 8 to 15. Attendees can find this remarkable development at Booth A43 in Pavilion 6, demonstrating the future potential of sustainable materials in high-demand applications like lingerie.
About the Companies Involved
Borealis
Borealis holds a prominent position as a leading global provider of advanced and sustainable polyolefin solutions. The company is a pioneer in polyolefin recycling within Europe and a major producer of basic chemicals, aiming to create circular materials for key industries such as consumer goods, healthcare, and mobility. Their operations span over 120 countries, driven by a commitment to safety, innovation, and performance excellence.
Infinium
Infinium specializes in gas-to-liquid conversion technology, focusing on creating low-carbon synthetic fuels. Their contributions to the industry include pioneering clean energy solutions and supporting businesses in their energy transition efforts. With high-profile clients like Amazon and American Airlines, Infinium is reshaping energy production.
Fullstride Ventures
Fullstride Ventures is dedicated to transforming the future of manufacturing, supply chains, and product development through sustainable solutions. With a clear mission to reduce environmental impact while meeting modern consumer demands, Fullstride continues to break new ground in sustainable textile innovation, having achieved notable milestones such as launching a plant-based bra pad.
The launch of carboncup™ exemplifies how material innovation can facilitate a sustainable future for the fashion industry, paving the way for others to follow suit.