The aim of this project is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a new environmentally-friendly concept, in which paper-grade pulp is converted into a novel Kuura textile fibre (lyocell-type staple fibre). The pulp in question is made from sustainable northern wood by Metsä Group and the concept is based on integrating the textile fibre production to the entity making the pulp (i.e. to a bioproduct mill).

At the heart of this project is a greenfield, semi-industrial production plant (a demo plant) located in Äänekoski, Finland. The demo plant is integrated to Metsä Fibre’s bioproduct mill in Äänekoski. The plant was started up during 2020 and the actual demonstration phase, including the testing and further development of the new technology, began in late 2020. The demonstration phase is estimated to last about 2-3 years. Based on the outcome of the demonstration project, Metsä Group will assess investing in a commercial factory and thus starting a textile fibre business.

The Kuura project has its own webpage and you can access it here: https://www.kuura.io/