FineCell is developing a technology that combines wood pulp with a natural chemical – oxalic acid found in e.g. rhubarb – producing a new biomaterial can be used both as a powder and as a water solution, i.e., as a hydrogel. These can replace fossil-based chemicals in beauty and healthcare products, as well as in paints. The biomaterial can easily carry other ingredients, making it an excellent binding agent for products such as sunscreens, skin creams, and paints. It’s also transparent, enabling it to be used in a large variety of products.
The material is completely biobased, light to ship, and compared to other similar cellulose products, requires 80-90% less energy to manufacture.