The goal is to transform Qira, a brand of BDO (1,4-butanediol), into low-impact PTMEG, a key component of the patented bio-derived Lycra fiber-a development which follows the announcement in September 2022 of a partnership between The Lycra Company and Qore to produce bio-derived Lycra fiber from Qira. DCC now steps into this partnership, converting Qira to bio-PTMEG.
The technology, based on an allyl alcohol process, will make it possible to produce PTMEG with a reduced environmental impact, marking an important step forward in the search for new eco-responsible solutions. The resulting PTMEG will account for 70% of the renewable content of Lycra fiber, thus increasing its sustainability.
Steve Stewart, Chief Brand and Innovation Officer of The Lycra Company, presented DCC with the Green Partner award in recognition of its continued efforts to promote sustainable development and its commitment to creating low-impact products.
On the market by early 2025, bio-derived Lycra fiber will be the first renewable elastane available on a large scale. Initial life-cycle analyses suggest a potential carbon footprint reduction of up to 44 % compared to traditional Lycra fiber, while still offering equivalent performance.
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