Biodegradable water-soluble melanin polymer for cleansing applications
Oxyco's innovative melanin-based polymer platform offers a biodegradable, water-soluble solution with high metal-chelation capacity, ideal for cleansing products. The technology is ready for cationic functionalization and commercial scale-up.
Overview
Oxyco presents a groundbreaking biodegradable, water-soluble melanin polymer platform designed for cleansing applications. Derived from microbial fermentation, this material is environmentally friendly, offering complete biodegradability and compatibility with aqueous formulations. Its high metal-chelation capacity allows for effective active deposition on both hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces, making it a versatile component for next-generation cleansing products.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Water Solubility: Ensures homogeneous distribution in aqueous systems.
- Biodegradability: Demonstrated complete breakdown under OECD-like conditions, with further validation planned.
- Chelation and Surface Interaction: Strong metal-binding capability enhances deposition and retention on diverse surfaces.
- Scalability: Currently produced at gram-to-kilogram scale, with plans for ton-scale production within 12–18 months.
- Sustainability: Bio-based, free of microplastics and petrochemical residues, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 5, with ongoing validation efforts aimed at enhancing its functional properties. Future phases include cationic functionalization, performance benchmarking, and commercial scale-up to integrate into manufacturing processes.
About Oxyco
Oxyco is a Barcelona-based biotechnology company that produces vegan, nature-identical biomelanin through a specialized biocatalysis process. By utilizing proprietary enzymes, the company creates a sustainable, soluble, and stable alternative to traditional melanin sources like sepia ink or bird feathers, which are often costly and difficult to scale. Their production method allows for customizable properties, positioning the ingredient for diverse applications across the personal care, food and beverage, and nanotechnology sectors.
This technology addresses significant market demand for ethically produced, cruelty-free, and high-performance color additives, antioxidants, and UV-blocking materials. Founded in 2022 as a joint venture between experts from Zymvol Biomodeling and Gecco Biotech, the company offers a way for industries to integrate functional bio-pigments into their products. Their biomelanin has been confirmed to share an identical structure with natural melanin, offering a stable and scalable solution for applications ranging from sea-friendly sunscreens to sustainable semi-conductors.
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