The integration of cutting-edge materials like graphane into conventional fibers is transforming India’s textile industry. The focus is on increasing the use of viscose, a widely used semi-synthetic fiber, to create high-performance textiles with global appeal. This initiative, exemplified by the groundbreaking collaboration between Birla Cellulose and Bhilwara Group Companies, positions India as a key player in the growing market for advanced textile materials.
Global advancements
The global graphene market from which graphane is derived is witnessing substantial growth. Several reports outline the growth in this market. For example, as per Grand View Research, the global graphene market was valued at $195.7 million in 2023 and projected to grow at a CAGR of 35.1 per cent from 2024 to 2030. According to Fortune Business Insights the global graphene market size was valued at $432.7 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from $570.3 million in 2024 to $5,193.2 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 31.8 per cent during the forecast period. What’s pushing this growth is the growing demand from the electronics, automotive, and aerospace industries. The Asia Pacific region is a dominant player in the graphene market, due to its robust manufacturing sectors and increasing investments in technology.
Global trade in graphene-related materials is increasing, with countries like China and the US as major exporters. The import of graphene-based products is also rising, as countries seek to integrate these materials into their manufacturing processes.
The viscose connection
The evolution of graphane fibers is closely intertwined with the existing viscose industry. Viscose, a semi-synthetic fiber, has long been a staple in textiles. Researchers are exploring ways to integrate graphane into viscose production to enhance its properties. Internationally, many initiatives are gaining traction.
European Research initiatives: Several European research consortia are focusing on integrating graphene into textile fibers for applications in smart textiles and wearable sensors. These projects often involve collaborations between universities, research institutions, and textile manufacturers, aiming to develop functional textiles with enhanced conductivity and durability.
South Korean advancements: South Korean companies are actively researching and developing graphene-enhanced fibers for applications in high-performance sportswear and industrial textiles. These efforts are driven by the country's strong focus on advanced materials and textile innovation.
US development: Companies within the US are exploring Graphene enhanced fibers for military applications, and for the development of advanced body armor.
India scenario
The agreement between Aditya Birla Group's Birla Cellulose, Grasim Industries, and Bhilwara Group Companies marks a an important moment in India's textile evolution. This collaboration aims to manufacture viscose fibers reinforced with graphene, leveraging the material's exceptional strength, durability, and thermal properties. TACC Ltd will supply graphene derivatives, while RSWM Ltd will utilize the improved viscose fibers to produce advanced textiles. This initiative underscores India's commitment to innovation and its drive to elevate the quality and functionality of its textile products. The sheer scale of Grasim Industries with a consolidated net revenue of Rs 1.3 lakh crore in the 2024 fiscal year, illustrates the potential impact of this collaboration.
Despite the immense potential, the widespread adoption of graphane-enhanced textiles faces numerous issues, including high production costs, scalability issues, and the need for standardization. However, ongoing R&D efforts, coupled with strategic collaborations like the one in India, are paving the way for a promising future. The Indian textile industry, with its vast resources and entrepreneurial spirit, is poised to capitalize on these advancements and establish itself as a global leader in the production of innovative, high-performance textiles.
