Bio-inks will be used to fight textile counterfeiting

CeNTI and CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering of the University of Minho have jointly develop an innovative solution focused on textile sector. It is called EcoBioInks4SmartTextiles and is a Project that aims to produce eco-sustainable bio-inks with reversible and photo controllable fluorescent properties for use in the functionalization of fabrics to provide them with new intelligent/technical properties.

The Project used bio and nanotechnologies in the development of these inks and explores their application through methodologies conventionally used in textile production and advanced processes of textile functionalization.

The innovation is related to the fact that these inks are composed of natural materials, namely biomolecules produced from microorganisms, in contrast to traditional materials commonly obtained from petroleum-based synthesis.

According to the researchers, these inks have unique properties that are difficult to copy or clone and thus can be used as anti-counterfeiting markers or in security printing. This technology can be applied to various intelligent textile products, ranging from clothing to decorative items with patterns that change with ambient light, among many other applications.

The role of CEB - UM involves the biotechnological production and purification of the biomolecules. CeNTI is then responsible for making them compatible with the textile matrix through encapsulation processes, their application onto textiles and for carrying out long-term stability tests, intending to create a prototype. Given the innovation degree involved, a patent application was already initiated, aiming at the protection of this technology.

Know more about the Project HERE.