Kemira and Metsä Group have announced a strategic collaboration to develop Kuura, a new scalable and cost-competitive textile fiber produced in Europe. Kuura offers a sustainable alternative to conventional lyocell fibers currently available on the market.
Metsä Group is leading the development of Kuura and is exploring the commercial launch as part of an ongoing pre-engineering project. Kemira brings its extensive expertise in chemical processes to support the scale-up and integration of fiber production into Metsä’s existing pulp manufacturing.
“Partnering with Metsä Group to develop Kuura aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainable innovation. Our chemical solutions are key to maximizing circularity and process efficiency,” said Riikka Timonen, Commercial VP at Kemira.
Niklas von Weymarn, CEO of Metsä Spring, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “Kemira’s global expertise in process chemistry is invaluable as we advance Kuura’s production technology.”
Kuura is a man-made cellulosic fiber (MMCF) designed to address growing environmental challenges in the textile industry. With rising demand for fibers and concerns over polyester’s fossil-based origins and microplastic pollution, Kuura aims to offer a renewable, biodegradable alternative that can help close the global cotton supply gap.
This partnership represents a significant step toward more sustainable textile materials, leveraging responsibly sourced wood and innovative production methods.