Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Inc. has begun the process of opening a new production and research center for it genetically engineered fibers, which are engineering to simulate spider silk.
The new location is being planned to work in collaboration with the Ann Arbor, MI company’s ongoing production expansion in the United States and prospective production in Vietnam. To accelerate the process of establishing the new facility, the company has signed a contract with a team of biotechnology regulation experts with a proven track record of successfully introducing new biotechnologies.
“We are excited to begin this new relationship,” said COO Jon Rice. “This move to create a third prospective production location has been a consistent element of our long term growth plan for spider silk technologies. After a thorough assessment of potential locations and collaborators, I believe we have found the ideal location and partners for our planned third production facility. The regional expertise in silk production and the appetite for ground breaking technology makes this a perfect complement to our plans in Vietnam and our new facility in Indiana.”
Kraig Biocraft uses the term ‘genetically engineered spider silk’ instead of ‘synthetic spider silk’ because its materials are made by genetically engineered silkworms and the fiber is composed entirely of protein produced naturally by the silkworm. They are synthetic spider silks only in the sense that they are not being produced by a spider, but by a much more efficient organism, according to the company’s website.
Because of its strength, resilience and flexibility, spider silk holds great promise for commercial and consumer applications. The production of spider silk in commercial quantities holds the potential of a life-saving ballistic resistant material, which is lighter, thinner, more flexible, and tougher than steel. Other applications include use as structural material and for any application in which light weight and high strength are required.
The company’s announcement of its planned overseas expansion follows closely on the heels of its announcement that it has completed the build out of its new production facility in Indiana.
