Sparxell Unveils First Plant-Based Structural Colour Ink
In a groundbreaking move for sustainable fashion, Sparxell, a Cambridge-based colour technology startup, has launched the world's first plant-based structural colour textile ink, developed in collaboration with Positive Materials. Available for commercial orders from the end of June 2025, this nature-inspired innovation eliminates the need for synthetic dyes, plastics, mined metals, and toxic chemicals—ushering in a new era of eco-conscious colouration for textiles.
Debuting in Sparxell's signature structural blue, the ink comes in both matte and shimmer finishes and can be seamlessly integrated into existing production pipelines, thanks to Positive Materials' robust infrastructure. This launch democratizes access to sustainable textile innovation, allowing everyone from independent designers to global brands to adopt high-performance colour without the environmental toll.
Inspired by natural phenomena—such as the vibrant hues of Morpho butterfly wings—the ink uses cellulose-based structural colour. Instead of chemical pigments, colour is created by manipulating light at the microscopic level. This process not only achieves vivid, long-lasting colour but also drastically reduces water and energy consumption in textile production.
The first commercial textile release featuring this ink—a printed cotton jersey—will launch in European markets by September 2025. Additional colours are expected to follow throughout the year, as Sparxell's technology allows near-infinite colour variation using plant-based materials.
Dr. Benjamin Droguet, CEO and Founder of Sparxell, noted,
'For decades, vibrant colour in fashion has come at a heavy environmental cost. Our cellulose-based ink proves it doesn't have to. We're offering designers and manufacturers a true alternative—one that's high-performance, biodegradable, and scalable.'
Elsa Parente, Co-CEO & CTO of Positive Materials, added,
'By integrating this into our supply chain, we're enabling brands to access sustainable colour solutions with the same ease as conventional ones—only now, they're backed by science and ethics.'
This launch answers the urgent call for clean alternatives in an industry that annually releases 1.5 million tonnes of toxic dyes and contributes significantly to global carbon emissions. It marks a pivotal step toward a circular, toxin-free future for fashion, further reinforced by Sparxell's participation in the LVMH La Maison des Startups accelerator and a €1.9 million EIC grant.
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