Technology experts at Japanese textile giant Toray last year had developed a 100 percent bio-based polyester yarn from waste molasses has gone ahead to make another new development nylon bio-polymer also derived from waste molasses, a by-product of the sugar industry which is normally disposed. The new development will be officially launched at this week’s ISPO exhibition in Munich.

It has combined a new 3D fabric structure with the first plant-based membrane to offer the performance apparel market an ultra-light, soft laminate that is both breathable and water-resistant. The company says that up to 30 percent of the membrane and up to 60 percent of the nylon outer fabric is composed of plant-derived raw materials.

The plant-based Ecodear laminate, based on Toray’s high performance membrane Dermizax, is integrated using an innovative 3D technology, combined with the bio-based nylon outer fabric.

The three dimensional structure on the inner surface of the laminate is the result of microscopically small, semi-spherical particles used in production, as well as the reduction to a 3D layered laminate, which also leads to more lightness.

According to Toray, the 3D technology provides maximal moisture transport and comfort, beneficial for sports fabrics which can become saturated and heavy with moisture during use.

The moisture reportedly stays in the laminate, and helps prevent a subsequent diffusion of perspiration.

In comparison to 3-layer laminates, Toray’s new 3D structure is said to be more durable, with elasticity reportedly increased due to the plant-derived nylon.

Steffen Meiler, marketing manager, Toray Europe, said that they are developing an sustainable-clothing concept without any loss in functionality and want to implement this step by step - from fibre to fabric and now, to the membrane. Toray aims to develop a completely plant-based laminate, in order to become totally independent of fossil resources.

They will be presenting the world's first plant-based Ecodear high performance laminate at ISPO MUNICH 2015.