Biobased Coated Fabrics - A Textile Breakthrough
By Mary Holt
In an era where sustainability is at the forefront of design and manufacturing, the need for alternatives to traditional materials has never been greater. Although vinyl-coated fabrics have long been a go-to for durability and performance in commercial interiors, their environmental impact, stemming from the use of PVC and harmful additives, demands a shift toward more responsible solutions. That’s where biobased polyurethanes come in — an innovative material poised to redefine expectations for coated fabrics.
Why Sustainable Alternatives Matter
The vinyl used in coatings typically relies on highly energy intensive processes and non-renewable fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Vinyl manufacture also involves hazardous materials such as dioxins, phthalates and heavy metals Although vinyl is recyclable, less than 1% ever ends up being recycled, most of it ends up in landfill or incineration. All vinyl disposal poses significant environmental hazards as PVC can release harmful chemicals when incinerated or when in landfill. With the rise of sustainable design mandates and growing awareness among consumers, the market is ready for materials that combine high performance with authentic and meaningful environmental responsibility.
What is Carnegie Biobased Siltech?
Carnegie Biobased Siltech is a revolutionary coated fabric that replaces traditional petroleum-based content with rapidly renewable plant-based resources. Unlike vinyl, it is PVC-free, does not contain harmful additives, and is engineered for exceptional durability, cleanability, and aesthetic appeal. As the first biobased coated upholstery fabric in our industry, this fabric represents a step forward in Carnegie’s commitment to creating more materials that are beautiful, durable, and authentically sustainable.
How is it Made?
The innovation behind Carnegie Biobased Siltech lies in its composition. The coating is a biobased polyurethane derived from corn starch. These renewable ingredients significantly reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, lowering the carbon footprint of the material. Combined with a nonwoven textile substrate, Carnegie Biobased Siltech offers a premium look and feel without compromising environmental values - the perfect solution for high traffic spaces with strict cleanability and durability requirements.
What Are the Benefits of Carnegie Biobased Siltech?
Sustainability
- Non-toxic production process
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions during manufacturing process compared to vinyl
- Made with biobased content derived from rapidly renewable plant based resources
- Low carbon footprint
- Reduces the risk of off-gassing
- Meets California Indoor Air Quality Specification CA 01350
- Helps achieve LEED certification
- Other certifications & attributes: California Proposition 65, HHI (Healthier Hospitals Initiative), Kaiser Permanente, Mindful Materials, Oeko-tex Standard 100, and RoHs & Reach compliant
Safety
- Free of harsh chemicals such as antimicrobials, antimony, BPA, chlorine, DMF, formaldehyde, halogenated fire retardants, heavy metals, ozone-depleting chemicals, PFAS, phthalates, plasticizers, PVC, stain resistant finishes
- Won’t leach harmful chemicals if burned
- Extremely low VOCs
- Inherently antimicrobial
- Inherently flame resistant
- Meets California Indoor Air Quality Specification CA 01350
- No topical finishes
- Promotes healthier indoor air quality
Performance
- Bleach cleanable
- Approved for hospital-grade disinfectants
- Wipeable
- Stain resistant
- Superior abrasion (500k double rubs)
- Superior hydrolysis (15 weeks)
- 10-year warranty
Aesthetic Versatility
- Available in 50+ SKUs of colors, patterns, and textures
- Digitally printed patterns designed to replicate the intricate texture and appearance of authentic woven or embroidered textiles
- Seamlessly integrates with various design styles
Leading the Way to a Greener Future
Carnegie Biobased Siltech embodies our mission to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable design. By offering an alternative to vinyl that meets the highest standards of performance and aesthetic quality, we are empowering designers, architects, and facility managers to make choices that benefit both their projects and the planet.
Join us in shaping a sustainable future with Carnegie Biobased Siltech. Together, we can lead the way in creating spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible.
About the Author
Since 1999, Mary has enjoyed collaborating on designing sustainable futures with creative professionals worldwide, working on hospitality, healthcare, and corporate interiors. In 2013, she helped Carnegie pursue and achieve B-Corp certification - a first in the commercial textile industry. In her approach to product design, she pursues aggressive sustainability standards through rigorous testing and third party certifications, and pushes the boundaries of alternative source materials like post-consumer recycled plastic. She’s received several recognitions, including Best of NeoCon, MetropolisLikes, and Interior Design's HiP awards, and is a sought after contributor at conferences, panels, and podcasts that cover sustainability-related topics.