Chemical company Evonik has announced an extension of its partnership with AMSilk, a producer of advanced biomaterials based on silk proteins.
Building on their original agreement from 2023, the two companies have commissioned a manufacturing line at Evonik’s Slovakian biotech production hub. This will produce AMSilk’s high-performance vegan silk proteins, which are made using precision fermentation.
The Slovakian facility is equipped with advanced infrastructure, upgraded systems, and renewable energy, enabling the monthly output of several tons of silk proteins. The new line is said to meet certified industrial quality standards for spinning-grade biomaterials, supporting AMSilk’s market entry phase.
“Our collaboration with AMSilk is a powerful example of how together we can shape the future of materials through biotechnology,” said Guido Skudlarek, Head of Evonik’s Health Care business line. “By scaling production of sustainable silk proteins, we are not only expanding our portfolio of precision biosolutions — we are creating solutions that enhance life and redefine what’s possible.”
Increased output and efficiency
AMSilk transforms the silk protein powder produced by Evonik into high-performance yarns, which are said to offer premium production quality, regulatory compliance, and full supply chain transparency from European manufacturing. The company’s silk is reportedly produced with minimal environmental impact, and is designed for use in premium fashion and automotive interiors.
AMSilk’s biomaterials are biodegradable and derived from renewable plant-based carbon, leaving no microplastics at the end of their life cycle. The company secured €52 million earlier this month to scale the industrial production of its materials.
“Building on our earlier successful cooperation with Evonik as a trusted partner, we have signed this agreement and jointly designed a dedicated, specialized manufacturing line for the precision fermentation of AMSilk’s biomaterials, providing increased output and efficiency, alongside reduced material unit cost,” said Ctibor Kohutovic, Chief Production Officer at AMSilk. “This lays the foundation for the next phase of our growth while ensuring reliable supply for our customers.”
