Tandem Repeat, a trailblazer in bioindustrial manufacturing, is poised to revolutionize the textile industry with its protein-based fibers. With a $1.5M award from the Department of Defense, the company is set to scale its innovative technology, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable defense supply chain.

Partnering with ARCTOS Technology Solutions, an established aerospace and defense contractor, this grant is part of the DoD's Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program, which aims to bolster domestic supply chains, reduce logistical complexities, and promote sustainable solutions for defense.

Tandem Repeat’s breakthrough lies in its ability to harness proteins to create fibers that are both durable and environmentally friendly. With this funding, the company is set to expand its production from a pilot scale of 500 kg to a commercial scale of 1,000 metric tons, addressing the growing demand for sustainable materials in both defense and commercial sectors.

"We are thrilled to receive this support from the Department of Defense," said Dr. Melik Demirel, Huck Endowed Chair Professor at Penn State University and co-founder of Tandem Repeat. "This investment will enable us to increase our production and meet the rising demand for sustainable, high-performance materials. Our fibers reduce environmental impact while providing superior performance characteristics essential for civilian and defense applications."

The technology developed by Tandem Repeat offers a promising alternative to traditional synthetic fibers, such as polyester, which contribute to microfiber pollution and require high energy consumption during production. By developing bio-based, PFAS-free textiles, Tandem Repeat is paving the way for a more sustainable textile industry.

The DoD's investment is part of a broader strategy to enhance the domestic industrial base through biomanufacturing in critical areas like fabrication, firepower, fitness, food, and fuel. Tandem Repeat’s project focuses on the fabrication sector, specifically on developing advanced fibers and textiles that meet the rigorous demands of military applications. This initiative supports the DoD’s mission to safeguard America’s ability to produce essential materials domestically, particularly in the face of challenges such as natural disasters, warfare, and climate change.

Beyond their environmental advantages, Tandem Repeat’s bio-based fibers boast several performance benefits, including enhanced strength, durability, and adaptability to various environmental conditions. These properties make them ideal for a wide range of applications, from military uniforms to advanced composite materials.

"We are proud to work with Tandem Repeat to contribute to the DoD’s mission of building resilient and secure supply chains," said Kent J. Smith, Director of Biotechnology Programs at ARCTOS. "Our collaboration is focused on developing and positioning novel biotechnologies for defense applications, promoting sustainability, and reducing environmental impact. Our work ensures that critical material production remains secure and reliable amid increasing global challenges."