Human Material Loop (HML) has developed a radically new textile made from hair waste from hair salons. The textile closely resembles wool and can therefore be produced using the same production equipment. This makes the HML material highly scalable. Because no new raw materials are required for production, it is a potential key enabling technology for the raw materials transition.
The goal of this pilot project is to produce the HML textile on a pilot scale and validate it in the high-end clothing market. To achieve this, the textile will be treated with a biobased coating from Sustanix to improve its performance. Tess van Zalinge is creating a collection that will be used as a showcase for the fashion industry and consumers.
Project Objectives
Strengthening research and innovation capacity and the implementation of advanced technologies
Tess van Zalinge
Tess van Zalinge designs at the intersection of couture and ready-to-wear to create luxury designs with a functional sensuality style that evokes emotional attachment. Reliving and celebrating traditions of heritage and the local design culture. The designs combine handmade tailoring, unique craftsmanship and architectural intimates references to offer a contemporary take on femininity.
To contribute consciously each year, Tess van Zalinge found her eponymous label in 2016 after studying at Amfi in Amsterdam and working in the creative industry. A strong urge to keep improving and each step towards integrity and consciousness to combat waste. Nursing and developing a network of people Tess partners with, yesterday and tomorrow.
Her aim is to share with her creations. To share stories, to share memories, to share craftsmanship in order to preserve all that will be forgotten. To craft designs that last and are created with unexpected combinations, Tess aligns her ambitions with dedication to circular longevity. Drawing on a rich culture of storytelling, the unique handmade designs obtain an emotional attachment for a contemporary audience. Designs to be cherished among a positive and conscious contribution.
Sustanix
Sustanix is a Dutch deep-tech company focused on creating bio-based coatings and additives for industries such as textiles, leather, paper packaging, and furniture. The company transforms agricultural residues like sugarcane waste and wheat or rice straw into sustainable materials that replace harmful chemicals such as PFAS, microplastics, and fossil-based polymers. Their technology is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing production systems, allowing manufacturers to transition toward safer, circular, and environmentally responsible material solutions.
Challenges
HML now faces the challenge of entering the high-end fashion market with its new textile. To apply the textile in this market, clothing manufacturers need large sheets of textile to validate within their production and design processes.
The goal of this pilot project is to produce the HML textile on a pilot scale and validate it in the high-end clothing market. To achieve this, the textile will be treated with a biobased coating from Sustanix to improve its performance. Tess van Zalinge is creating a collection that will be used as a showcase for the fashion industry and consumers.
This project is supported by OPZuid and co-funded by the European Union and the Province of Limburg, in collaboration with Human Material Loop, Tess van Zalinge and Sustanix.
