Conference Speakers

Chris Mekeel, Ph.D.

CTO, Keel Labs

BIOGRAPHY

Chris Mekeel is the Chief Technology Officer at Keel Labs, a biomaterials company based in Morrisville, NC. Keel Labs is pioneering the use of seaweed-based biopolymers as sustainable alternatives to contemporary fibers. Chris received his PhD from the College of Textiles at North Carolina State University and has expertise in scaling biomaterial solutions with a focus on integrating these innovations into existing manufacturing processes & infrastructure. His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing sustainable solutions that balance performance, environmental responsibility, and real-world impact.

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Applications for Bio-Material Based Fibers Sourced from Seaweed

Kelsun® fiber is an innovative, sustainable biomaterial derived from seaweed, developed as a next-generation fiber for nonwoven and other technical textile applications.

Kelsun® fiber offers a unique combination of a low environmental footprint, biodegradability, and extreme softness without contributing to the microplastic problem. Additionally, this fiber exhibits excellent moisture management, natural flame resistance, and inherent antimicrobial properties–positioning it as an exciting alternative to conventional fibers.

With a renewable ocean-based origin, unique performance attributes, and seamless integration into traditional yarn spinning and nonwoven fabrication techniques, Kelsun® fiber represents a significant advancement in the pursuit of sustainable material solutions for the fiber industry

Kelsun® Fiber

Kelsun® fiber, developed by Keel Labs, is the world’s first high-performance seaweed-based fiber. Plastic-free and tree-free; the combined properties of Kelsun® allow it to outperform all other fibers without shedding harmful microplastics. This breakthrough material brings extreme softness, high absorptivity, inherent flame resistant and antimicrobial properties, in addition to unmatched biodegradability. Engineered to integrate into existing nonwoven manufacturing, Kelsun® fiber delivers a revolutionary material that combines performance with sustainability for next-generation consumer and industrial products.