Xampla

Xampla is a startup spun-off from the University of Cambridge that develops plant protein-based materials that can be used as a substitute to plastic packaging and microplastics.

The startup uses Supramolecular Engineered Protein (SEP) technology, which was developed over 15 years at the University of Cambridge. The technology is inspired by how spiders use protein and energy to create a strong material used in making webs.

Xampla’s technology untangles plant protein and re-assembles them into new structures with high degree of interaction between the protein molecules.

The new material can be structured into microcapsules and films. The material has similar performance as synthetic polymers but is fully biodegradable.

The company’s launch product is a microcapsule that can be used in homecare and personal care products such as detergent and softener liquids. The company can also develop food-grade microcapsules.

The process does not require solvents and does not change chemical composition of the protein. This makes the material better than current alternatives to microplastics, which use plant polysaccharides but with chemical cross-linking.

The microcapsule industry has a $12 billion market, and entities like the European Union have considered banning synthetic polymer capsules.

Xamplas is also developing single- and multi-layer films, coatings and single-use plastic packaging products. It will also introduce edible films and polymers. It aims to launch these products later in 2020.

In April 2020, the startup received £2 million in seed funding led by Amadeus Capital Partners and Cambridge Enterprise.

Xampla was a finalist in the Science Start-up of the Year 2019 competition of the Falling Walls conference.