Rubi Laboratories

Based in California, Rubi Laboratories develops a carbon-negative alternative to synthetic viscose. The company uses its patent-pending enzyme system, developed in-house, to convert carbon captured from waste released from manufacturing facilities into bio-based cellulose, which is then used to produce bio-based viscose yarn fabrics for the fashion industry.

Rubi claims that its proprietary enzyme system can convert CO2 gas in any concentration into cellulose and results in zero waste as it can utilize 100% of CO2 being input for the production of its material. The company’s bio-based viscose material is priced at a premium, compared to existing synthetic versions in the market, and Rubi aims to reach price parity by improving its technology and scaling up production.

The company reported that it has validated its technology by successfully creating a prototype material and was expecting to release a sample in February 2022.

Key customers and partnerships

As of February 2022, Rubi also reported that it has secured deals with global retail and fashion brands to test its sustainable material. In addition, Rubi mentioned that it is in discussions with energy manufacturers to receive the necessary CO2 for the production of its material. In July 2023, the company announced it had partnered with retail giant Walmart to explore the conversion of captured CO2 into textiles.

Funding and financials

In February 2022, Rubi Laboratories raised USD 4.5 million in seed funding led by Talis Capital and Necessary Ventures.