Finnish textile company Spinnova and Brazilian company Suzano have announced a delay in the pre-engineering phase of their new wood-based fiber production facility, which was initially expected to progress by late 2024. Earlier this year, the companies entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) to establish a manufacturing site dedicated to creating Spinnova fiber from wood. Although both parties have made technological advancements in fiber-spinning, particularly with improved output from fiber drying units and validation of critical sub-processes, the comprehensive validation of the Woodspin factory’s efficiency metrics — from pulp to fiber — will not be completed within the designated timeframe of 2024.
The postponement has prompted Spinnova and Suzano to brainstorm alternative strategies aimed at accelerating the validation processes that are essential for moving forward with the project. As stipulated under the current agreement, Suzano is responsible for the development of Microfibrillated Cellulose (MFC), while Spinnova holds the focus on fiber-spinning innovations. Both companies are committed to revising their timeline for the proposed wood-based fiber facility after reevaluating the situation.
According to the LOI, the transition to the pre-engineering stage is dependent on Spinnova successfully delivering a Process Design Package (PDP) for the new manufacturing site and obtaining necessary strategic approvals from Suzano. Moreover, certain metrics related to process and fiber quality established at the Woodspin facility must be met. While the PDP has been prepared in accordance with LOI requirements, the quality of the fiber has recently been confirmed to meet the desired targets, aided by assessments from specific brand and supplier partners along with a positive yarn spinning test from November 2024, demonstrating the viability of Spinnova fiber spun using industrial methods at current blend levels while meeting yield expectations.
In addition to focus on process validation, Spinnova is enhancing its pilot capacity to demonstrate the overall production process from pulp to fiber utilizing various cellulosic materials. This initiative reflects Spinnova’s strategy to innovate raw material sourcing, thereby contributing to the commercialization of its technology for fiber production, extending possibilities beyond conventional wood sources. The planned facility is set to be located in proximity to an existing Suzano pulp mill, which will manage and operate the new plant.
Despite the timeline adjustment, Spinnova has maintained its financial outlook for 2024, reaffirming its strategic objectives. Last May, Spinnova and Suzano inaugurated their first commercial-scale facility, capable of producing 1,000 tonnes of sustainable, recyclable, and fully biodegradable textile fiber sourced from responsibly managed wood annually. This endeavor marks a significant step towards sustainable textile production, reinforcing both companies’ positions in the market despite facing some delays.
The insights shared by Just Style, a brand under GlobalData, offer an overview of these developments and confirm the commitment of Spinnova and Suzano to advancing sustainable fiber production. Although the information provided is intended for general informational purposes, it emphasizes the importance of obtaining professional advice before making decisions based on the content. The companies aim to navigate through current challenges while remaining focused on their long-term sustainability goals and initiatives within the fiber textile industry.
