This quarter we sat down with Jun Kamei, CEO and founder of Amphico (2022 cohort) and Tim Kunze, CEO and co-founder of Fusion Bionic (2022 cohort), to learn about their new collaboration, LaserTex. They are combining their nature-inspired solutions to drive the development of PFAS-free functional textiles. It all started in the Redwoods, during our 2022 Ray of Hope Nature Retreat. Read more about the technology, the collaboration and what it means for Amphico and Fusion Bionics!
Please share with us the high-level summary of what you hope to accomplish with LaserTex:
With Lasertex, we aim to revolutionize technical material design by merging biomimetic laser-engraved surface texturing with innovative textile material science. The project aspires to create a new generation of materials that are not only PFAS-free and environmentally friendly but also exhibit enhanced functionalities such as self-cleaning, water-repellency, and durability. By combining the precision of ultrashort-pulse laser technology with biomimicry-inspired textile solutions, we hope to set a new standard for sustainable materials in industries like fashion, outdoor gear, and technical applications.
How did this joint project get initiated?
The journey began in 2022 when the founders of Fusion Bionic and Amphico met during a retreat organized as part of the Ray of Hope Prize by the Biomimicry Institute. The unique environment of the Redwoods fostered open discussions about shared challenges and complementary solutions in biomimicry-inspired technologies. This led to an exploratory project in 2023 to assess the compatibility of laser surface texturing with Amphico’s PFAS-free textile innovations. The successful creation of a self-cleaning material with outstanding properties inspired us to pursue a larger vision, culminating in the publicly funded Lasertex project. This collaboration is an embodiment of interdisciplinary innovation fueled by a shared commitment to sustainability.
Why is this a groundbreaking collaboration? Is it the first use of lasers in textiles? Does it reduce chemical usage and/or production costs?
Lasertex is groundbreaking for several reasons:
- First Application of Laser Technology in Textiles: While lasers have been widely used in technical material engineering, their application in textile materials, particularly for biomimicry-inspired functionalities, is a novel approach.
- Reduction of Harmful Chemicals: By utilizing physical surface structuring to replicate natural properties, Lasertex eliminates the need for environmentally harmful chemicals such as PFAS, making the materials safer for both consumers and ecosystems.
- Cost-Effective and Scalable: The coupling of precise laser technology with Amphico’s textile expertise creates a pathway to scalable production processes that can reduce both costs and environmental impact.
This collaboration is a testament to how different biomimicry approaches can synergize to solve real-world challenges and unlock new possibilities in material science.
What impacts could this have on the future of Fusion Bionic?
Lasertex represents a significant growth opportunity for Fusion Bionic. It expands our technology’s applicability beyond technical surfaces to textiles, a market with immense potential. Success in this project could further position Fusion Bionic as a leader in sustainable, high-performance material innovation and open doors to collaborations across industries like fashion, healthcare, and aerospace. Additionally, Lasertex showcases the adaptability of our laser technology and reinforces our commitment to biomimicry-driven solutions.
What impacts could this have on the future of Amphico?
For Amphico, Lasertex is an opportunity to expand the performance potential of its material technology by introducing sub-micron structures that are difficult to achieve with conventional manufacturing methods. It is also a technology that allows us to create these structures without relying on harmful chemistries, which is another exciting element. Laser is not conventionally used in textile material, and thus the opportunity to be front runners in this unique application is exciting as it gives Amphico another set of levelers in increasing the performance of its materials. Additionally, by joining forces with Fusion Bionic, we are able to see the potential of biomimicry as a technical approach in enhancing the material characteristics.
What has been the most challenging aspect of creating a joint project with another startup? What advice would you give to other founders looking to do the same?
The biggest challenge is the limited availability of funding for young companies with exceptional new ideas. This is especially true when the outcome is uncertain, and the risk of technological failure is high. The perfect solution is to use tailored funding mechanisms such as those used by Lasertex. Lasertex is funded with the support of UK and German funding mechanisms to encourage innovation between the participating European partners.
It is also important to maintain an intensive exchange, especially when it comes to the joint market launch following the successful completion of the project. It is important to jointly understand optimal utilization paths and to develop a common path to success.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Lasertex symbolizes more than a technological breakthrough—it highlights the power of collaboration in the biomimicry community. By bringing together diverse perspectives, this project showcases how startups can amplify their impact when united by a common purpose. We hope this serves as inspiration for other biomimicry innovators to join forces and tackle global challenges creatively and sustainably.
We are grateful to the Biomimicry Institute for fostering the environment that made this collaboration possible and are excited to see how Lasertex can redefine the future of textile materials.
