Novel in-build filters for washing machines to stop microfibres pollution

Project Information

Fibrestop

Grant agreement ID: 101010566

DOI

10.3030/101010566

Project closed

EC signature date 7 October 2020

Start date 1 November 2020

End date 30 April 2023

Funded under

• PRIORITY 'Societal challenges

Total cost

€ 2 267 500,00

EU contribution

€ 1 587 250,00

Coordinated by

PLANET CARE RESITVE ZA OKOLJE DOO
Slovenia

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - Fibrestop (Novel in-build filters for washing machines to stop microfibres pollution)

Reporting period: 2021-11-01 to 2023-04-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Microplastics are small (< 5mm) plastic particles that constitute a large part of plastic pollution. Due to their small sizes, microplastics are found in all environmental compartments and have a great ability to enter, influence and endanger natural food webs. It is estimated that 51 trillion microplastic particles are present in the oceans, with up to 219,000 tonnes of microplastics entering the sea from Europe each year. Microplastic pollution caused by the washing processes of synthetic textiles is a main source of primary microplastics in the oceans.
Standard washing machines do not include any means to stop microfiber emissions and effective and practical post-market solutions against fibre pollution are not available on the market. PlanetCare has developed Fibrestop, an innovative, built-in microfiber filter for washing machines. The device is a durable, automatically self-cleaning filter that combines high capture rates with the highest level of practicality for the user. Filtering is based on the physical capture of fibres and no chemicals are used at any stage of the process. The system is set to accommodate different options for management of the caught fibres which allow recycling and result in minimum waste generation. Having a retention rate verified by third parties testing, Fibrestop can nullify microplastic pollution derived from washing, generating tangible benefits for the environment and a sustainable future for food safety, human health and ecosystem security. EIC funding has allowed PlanetCare to develop a new microfibre filtering concept that goes beyond the state-of-the-art that is designed from the start for integration inside the domestic washing machine. The concept has been optimized, tested and validated to meet industry requirements. During the project, we were able to establish valuable new partnerships through which industrialization and a quick market entry are planned to meet regulatory requirements.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

During the project, PlanetCare has managed to bring together an ambitious and motivated team with all the necessary knowledge to create a state-of-the-art solution to microfibre pollution from domestic washing.
During the first 12 months, we developed a completely new filtering concept that has then been optimized and extensively tested. It is currently the subject of two patent applications. As part of the effort a customized testing laboratory with the necessary methodology was established which enabled us to perform a thorough optimization of the design. Several concept routes for the filter design were evaluated and a final design was adopted for full development. The optimization benefited from input gained through active interaction with washing machine producers and first-tier suppliers. The result is a functional prototype adapted for production and industry standard requirements. An advanced testing procedure was developed for assessing fiber retention and for durability testing of the filter prototype. The filter was also externally tested and was validated in detail by an industrial partner.
The business strategy was developed and a number of contacts were established with important industrial partners that can support large-scale production and integration of the filter into market-ready washing machines. A formal agreement was reached with a first-tier component supplier and an agreement was reached with a major washing machine producer to start industrial integration of the filtering system in their washing machine platforms. The goal is to have the new washing machines on the market in time to meet the first microfibre prevention regulation requirements in Europe in 2025.
During the project, we devoted significant effort to reaching out to all stakeholders. Academia, industry, NGOs, investors, and policymakers were actively engaged to further awareness about the microfibre pollution issue, preparing public acceptance for solutions and supporting regulatory work. Among many oureach activities we conducted a successful online survey with over 32000 respondents that gave the first measurable market assessment for integrated microfibre filters. Our efforts were presented to the global audience at major events such as the EXPO and the UN Oceans Conference.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The project progressed beyond the state-of-the-art according to plan. We were able to develop an improved understanding of fiber filtration in relation to domestic washing and real washing conditions which was incorporated in our designs and in the new testing methodology. A number of parameters, materials, designs, and components were evaluated in our early assessment.
An innovative two-step automated filtering system was developed that puts no burden on the user and has the reliability and durability to match those of commercial washing machines. The system is based on a self-cleaning filter with a high fiber retention rate and flexibility to match the requirements of different producers. The design is the subject of two patent applications.
A new reliable testing methodology was developed for retention assessment and a completely automated setup was assembled for continuous (24/7) testing of filter functioning. This automated method is necessary to be able to realistically test long-term functioning and reliability for years of trouble-free use as is required for a subunit of the washing machine. The method is fully monitored and uses all realistic conditions such as detergent dosing etc.
Achievements of the project are in line with plans to end the project with a filter ready for production and integration in washing machines. The filter is currently prepared to enter industrial production in time to meet new regulations. The project is on track to reach the technical, environmental, and socio-economic impacts that were planned at the start of the project.

FibreStop Filter