Toraphene

Toraphene, a UK-based  biotech company, specializes in developing high-performance bio-based packaging solutions. The company has developed a viable composite material—also called Torophene—that combines graphene with bio-based polymers, enhancing strength, flexibility, barrier properties, and recyclability. The company was working on introducing high-performance, sustainable products across various industries, such as for use in personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., gloves and disposable gowns), construction purposes (e.g., temporary building wraps), or for recreational purposes (e.g., winterizing boats). The company emphasizes that Toraphene’s key ingredient graphene is a Nobel prize-winning material, stronger than diamond at the molecular level. The company operates its innovation lab and production plant in North Lincolnshire.

As of September 2023, the company has launched a thin and flexible bio-based film using toraphene, which is leakproof, tear-resistant, and home compostable to be used in bin liners and pest waste collection. The company was teaming up with leading European and US manufacturers (names undisclosed) to develop a revolutionary compostable/recyclable coffee cup.

Key customers and partnerships

As of September 2023, it had three joint development projects in progress, focusing on developing high-barrier film/containers. One of the joint development agreements had been signed with a global consumer health brand (name undisclosed). Additionally, it had accelerated industrial partnerships that led to an offtake agreement in early 2023. 

Funding and financials

In February 2021, Toraphene closed a seed round of external financing raising USD 1.25 million for commercial-scale expansion. As of September 2023, the company had launched an equity crowdfunding campaign on Crowdcube, aiming to raise GBP 1 million.