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Amphitex

What is Amphitex?

We are a material science start-up specialising in PFAS-free hydrophobic polymer research. Our original exploration into how humans would react to rising sea levels led us to developing artificial gills which we have now transferred into the textile industry. After years of development, our waterproof and breathable membrane will be ready for the market in 2025 and water repellent face fabrics will follow in late 2025.

Which polymer do you use?

Great question, we get it all the time! Our technologies all use the same hydrophobic thermoplastic that is part of the polyolefin family. There are many common polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene but ours has never been used in the textile industry before. We use the same polymer for all layers of Amphitex to replace traditional multi-material laminates in the ambition that a mono-material laminate will be recycled at the very end of its life.

How do you define mono-materiality?

Our membrane and yarn use a similar polymer group but include some different additives to facilitate their alternative constructions and functions. These additives are selected to enhance the final product whilst not compromising its recyclability.

How can I stay up to date with the latest technology developments?

Follow us on socials and sign up for the monthly newsletter. This is the best way to stay informed on new developments, job advertisements and trade events that we are attending.

Responsibility

Why responsibility and not sustainability?

Amphico’s mission is to provide responsible materials that have been consciously engineered to deliver high performance with a lower impact relative to traditional options. Producing anything has a footprint and we are transparent that incremental, meaningful improvements do not always warrant the label of sustainability. The outdoor industry is not sustainable but we are in business to reduce its environmental impacts.

Is Amphitex a biomaterial?

No, is the short answer. Amphitex is made of a synthetic polymer because, as of yet, no biomaterial has equivalent high performance metrics as synthetic membranes. Our ambition is to transition away from a petroleum-based synthetic to a renewable and non-food-competing bio-based feedstock.

Why is Amphitex not biodegradable?

We want Amphitex to be as durable and hard wearing as possible to give your garments the longest life possible as consuming less is one of the most efficient ways of lowering your carbon footprint. Biodegradability would mean Amphitex is capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms which would be the opposite of material longevity. That’s why we design for circularity in other ways and not degradation.

Recyclable vs recycled - what’s the difference?

Amphitex is designed for circularity and to be recycled at the end of its life with compatible recycling technology. The benefit of using the same thermoplastic for every layer means the whole textile can be reformed into new products with mechanical or chemical recycling processes. As we are just getting started, Amphitex is not currently made with recycled feedstock. Adding different recycled polymers to new garments can be a viable use of plastic waste but often produces a non-recyclable blend and can mean downcycling in a finite lifecycle.

Has an LCA been conducted?

A basic LCA using predictive and secondary data was conducted but we hope to complete a significantly more thorough LCA in the near future with primary data from our newly formed supply chain.

Commercial

How can you work with us?

Our PFAS-free technologies can be tailored to fit client’s requirements. Get in touch with us via the form above and we can start the conversation by explaining our offering and its limitations, to quickly assess if we have the right textiles and membranes for you. We are open to a range of collaborative opportunities.

How commercially ready is Amphitex?

Amphitex membrane will be commercially available in several variations in 2025 and the two layer laminated waterproof and breathable textile system will be ready in late 2025. Get in touch now to learn more about our R&D timelines.

Are samples available?

Samples are available via the website form or by emailing amphitex@amphico.uk, please quote “Sample Request” to help Isabella respond to you as quickly as possible.

Where is Amphitex made?

Our current supply chain is based in Japan, relying on our strong links to Japan’s history of producing high quality, performance textiles. We are currently setting up an equivalent European manufacturing chain and have the ambition to do the same in North America to serve local clients.

People

Are you currently hiring?

The best way to stay up to date on our open vacancies is to follow us on Linkedin and Instagram, and sign up for our newsletter. All current vacancies can be found via the button above. If there is nothing open that suits your skills, get in touch with us via the form above and let us know why you are passionate about joining the team - we might not know that we need your skills!

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