The University of Manchester: The UK division of Polygiene Group Collaborates with the University of Manchester to Pioneer Microfibre Reduction Technology

The UK division of Polygiene Group has partnered with The University of Manchester to accelerate development of their ShedGuard technology through the UKRI Impact Acceleration Scheme. ShedGuard is designed to address one of the most pressing environmental challenges in the textile industry, the release of microfibres into the environment. This collaboration brings together Polygiene Group's expertise in polymer and additive ingredient solutions with the university's pioneering research capabilities, creating a pathway to developing methods and techniques for determining the mechanism of finishes targeting microfibre shedding of fabrics. The partnership began when Polygiene Group identified Manchester University's unique work on microfibre identification and quantification during The Textile Institute World Conference. The university's advanced techniques, including microscopy and algorithm-based quantification, providing the foundation for the evaluation of finishes. The project is significant for both partners. For Polygiene Group, the collaboration presents an opportunity to advance in sustainable textile solutions by introducing the product, ShedGuard, to the market. For The University of Manchester, the partnership builds on its established expertise in microfibre analysis and expands its influence within the textile industry. The research team will further refine their quantification techniques and develop predictive algorithms to forecast microfibre release in various textile applications. These advancements have the potential to set global standards for microfibre measurement and drive future collaborations with international industry leaders. The broader implications of this collaboration extend beyond academia and industry. The project' s outcomes are expected to contribute to and support the development of environmentally responsible textiles. By addressing critical challenges, such as the absence of standardized measurement methods and the variability of application techniques, the partnership is paving the way for transformative change across the textile supply chain. Polygiene Group's innovative approach, supported by the unique facilities and expertise of The University of Manchester, demonstrates the power of academic-industrial partnerships in tackling complex environmental issues. Together, they are setting a new standard for sustainable textile development and reaffirming the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful progress.