Automotive Textile Waste into High-Quality Insulation
The traditional insulation model relies on resource-intensive virgin materials like fiberglass or foam. FonaTerm® innovates by using automotive textile waste, diverting it from landfills, and transforming it into high-performance insulation.
FonaTerm® is a Slovenian insulation product created from textile waste generated during the manufacturing of automotive seat covers and cushions. The company integrates innovative practices by transforming waste materials into a high-performance insulation product that contributes to sustainability while maintaining the product’s durability, safety, and resistance to various environmental factors. FonaTerm®’s business model revolves around transforming waste from the automotive industry into a high-value product that addresses the growing need for sustainable insulation solutions. By converting textile waste into insulation, the company minimizes resource use, reduces waste, and promotes energy efficiency in buildings. The business model embraces the principles of circular economy by turning waste into a valuable resource. FonaTerm® – Granular is a highly efficient insulation made from shredded textile waste treated with flame retardants and pest-resistant substances. The product is designed to be injected into wall cavities, providing seamless coverage without gaps, eliminating thermal bridges, and covering pipes and other installations for optimal insulation. Its high specific heat capacity (1870 J/kg K) and density (up to 180 kg/m³) result in superior thermal energy accumulation, which means buildings stay warmer longer, reducing energy consumption.
Remanufacture
Textile waste is processed and treated to form a high-performance insulation product, which can be reintegrated into building applications.
Reduce
Diverts textile waste from landfills.
Reuse
Textile waste from the automotive industry is repurposed into insulation materials, extending the lifecycle of waste materials.
Environmental Impact
By improving building insulation, FonaTerm® reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling, indirectly lowering CO2 emissions associated with energy use. Utilizes waste textile materials, reducing the need for virgin materials and conserving natural resources.
Economic Impact
The product's high specific heat capacity and density contribute to superior thermal energy retention, minimizing energy waste and optimizing resource use in buildings. The use of textile waste for insulation is a novel approach, introducing material innovation within the insulation industry.
Social Impact
Potential for job creation in textile waste collection, recycling processes, insulation production, and installation.
Sustainability Goals addressed
Business Model Expert: Anteja ECG, Slovenia
Organisation: Fonaterm, Slovenia