Zelfo Overview

Patented fibre technology developed by Zelfo Technology transforms 100% renewable or recycled cellulose fibres and water into self-binding Zelfo^® material.

With unprecedented environmental, performance and design attributes, Zelfo is an economic, adaptable and sustainable alternative to wood, plastics and other materials for 2D and 3D applications in:

• Product Design
• Built Environment/Construction
• Pulp, Paper, and Paper Board
• Plastics

Aesthetics

Performance for a Broad Range of Applications

Formed from natural cellulose fibres, Zelfo is self-binding and non-toxic, with properties that can be modified as required by the end user.

Formable:

Made in sheets/panels

Additional technology is currently under review to introduce Zelfo into plastics moulding systems.

Variable density:

From 0.5 to 1.5 g/cm3, as light as cork or as dense as PVC.

Finish:

Textured or smooth; unfinished, matte or gloss surface.

Colour:

Untreated, surface-treated or pigmented throughout; both neutral and vibrant tones are possible.

Zelfo can be converted into an end product on-site or supplied in dry form for further processing by a product manufacturer.

Ecological

Renewable + Recyclable + Resource Efficient

Zelfo provides the potential to upcycle fibre-based waste, can be recycled into new Zelfo material and is biodegradable. The patented Cellulose Optimization Resource Efficient (CORE) technology provides an extremely energy- and water-efficient processing method to transform cellulose (plant) fibre and water into self-binding Zelfo. Zelfo’s Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) varies by application, but its source materials, production processes and end-of-life disposal have a low carbon footprint and environmental impact.

Company Background

Zelfo material development is consolidated in the patents owned by Zelfo Technology. Founded by a team of experts in the fields of bio-based materials, design and manufacturing, Zelfo Technology is focused on the development and optimization of cellulosic materials for the advancement of sustainable manufacturing. The company grew out of international collaborative R&D programs supported initially in 2006 by the Technology Strategy Board in the United Kingdom and later by the CFI (Centre Francilien de l’Innovation) in France. It now successfully operates using open innovation principles to expand and further monetise their own and their partners IP portfolio.

Using Zelfo

Detailed technical discussions on current and emerging know-how and IP, CORE technology and Zelfo material require a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).

Pilot plant:

Zelfo Technology’s pilot plant facilities can produce sheet material and batch prototyping.

Zelfo material:

Pre-made Zelfo may be purchased in either sheet or dry form through Zelfo Technology.

Licensing:

Zelfo Technology grants licenses for its patented technology, facilitating the economic and responsible production of Zelfo-based products.

R&D:

Interested parties may co-develop Zelfo-based products under license.

To support licensees, Zelfo Technology operates a continuous material improvement programme in collaboration with European institutes, authorities and both national and international companies. In addition, licensees working with Zelfo Technology have access to its global team of experts in bio-based materials, design and manufacturing. If you are interested in using Zelfo please contact us here.