Evonik announced today that it entered into an agreement with AMSilk to produce sustainable silk proteins.
AMSilk, a Germany-based biotech company, develops innovative, sustainable silk proteins. The uses of the silk include a broad range of applications including medical devices. They provide optimal performance and minimal environmental impact, according to a news release.
Essen, Germany-based Evonik’s agreement covers the production of industrial quantities of the silk proteins. Evonik plans to produce the silk at its contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) precision fermentation site in Slovakia.
“Working with a partner who puts sustainability at the heart of their business is in perfect alignment with our goals at Evonik. We are delighted to partner with AMSilk to bring smart biotech silk materials to industries worldwide,” said Thomas Riermeier, head of the Health Care business line at Evonik.
AMSilk turns man-made proteins into silk formulations that include fiber, hydrogels and silk powder. All materials are vegan, biodegradable and use renewable, plant-based carbon with no microplastics.
Evonik plans to utilize its expertise in fermentation to help AMSilk industrialize its silk technologies. The company offers a total fermentation capacity over 4,000 m³. Its capacity spans a network of global sites in the U.S., Europe and Asia.
“With Evonik, we have one of the most competent and renowned players for producing silk protein at our side. As we continue to improve our process, Evonik is not only the perfect industrial partner, but also as a strategic partner with whom we can scale up industrial production even beyond Europe,” said Klaus Kjeldal, chief production officer at AMSilk.