Evonik and AMSilk expand partnership to scale sustainable silk proteins
Evonik and AMSilk, leading innovators in biomaterials based on silk proteins, have strengthened their partnership with a long-term agreement. They will now produce sustainable silk proteins at an industrial scale. Building on their initial 2023 manufacturing agreement, they commissioned a new production line at Evonik’s Slovakian site for AMSilk’s high-performance silk. It’s designed for use in premium fashion and demanding automotive interiors, combining sustainability and high performance.
Guido Skudlarek, Head of the Healthcare business line at Evonik, stated, “Our collaboration with AMSilk demonstrates how biotechnology can shape the future of materials. Scaling production of sustainable silk enhances our portfolio and creates solutions that improve lives and expand possibilities.”
Evonik’s dedicated production line in Slovakia enables consistent monthly output of several tons of AMSilk’s silk proteins, meeting certified industrial quality standards for spinning-grade biomaterials.
Ctibor Kohutovic, AMSilk’s Chief Production Officer, added, “Building on our successful partnership, we designed a specialized manufacturing line for AMSilk’s biomaterials. This increases output and efficiency while reducing material costs, supporting our growth and ensuring reliable supply for customers.”
AMSilk transforms Evonik’s silk protein powder into high-performance yarns, with full supply chain transparency from European manufacturing. Its biomaterials are vegan, biodegradable, derived from renewable plant-based carbon, and leave no microplastics at end-of-life.
Also, the global protein fiber market, including silk, cashmere, and merino, is valued at around €26 billion, with AMSilk targeting a €16 billion serviceable segment. AMSilk’s sustainable biomaterials address this large, growing market.
Evonik’s expertise in fermentation spans strain development, process optimization, and large-scale manufacturing. Its capacity exceeds 4,000 m³ across US and European sites, supporting biotech projects of any scale.
By leveraging biotechnology, Evonik provides high-value, sustainable solutions across markets like pharmaceuticals, personal care, and advanced foods. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to reducing environmental impact through innovative, renewable raw materials and greener processes.
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