MANTRA Develops Jute-Viscose Nonwoven Material for Space Acoustic Applications
Surat-based MANTRA and Waylla Enterprise develop indigenous material for potential use in spacecraft interiors, payload fairings and acoustic systems
The Man-Made Textiles Research Association (MANTRA), Surat, in collaboration with Waylla Enterprise, has developed an indigenous jute-viscose spunlace nonwoven material for potential space acoustic applications. The material uses approximately 60% cottonized jute and 40% viscose fibres and has shown promising acoustic performance in preliminary assessments.
Further testing and optimisation are underway to evaluate and improve the material’s properties for demanding space environments.
Natural Fibres for Advanced Applications
The development uses India’s natural fibre resources to create a lightweight, eco-friendly material for high-technology applications. Jute contributes strength, low density and sustainability, while viscose provides softness, processability and acoustic absorption.
The spunlace nonwoven can be engineered into sheets, panels and customised components for potential use in spacecraft interiors, payload fairings, crew modules and satellite systems, where noise control and vibration damping are important requirements.
Officials from MANTRA said the initiative aligns with India’s growing focus on self-reliance in advanced materials and supports the vision of “Make in India” for space and defence applications. The material could offer a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic acoustic materials, while also creating opportunities for India’s textile sector in high-value, high-technology markets.
Further Testing Planned
According to MANTRA, the prototype has demonstrated satisfactory noise absorption characteristics in initial tests. Further evaluation is planned under simulated space conditions, including vacuum, thermal cycling and outgassing behaviour, in collaboration with relevant research and space agencies.
The team is also examining surface treatments and structural modifications aimed at improving fire resistance, durability and acoustic performance.
The development highlights the potential for textile research to contribute to applications in space technology, defence and advanced engineering.
Focus on Sustainable High-Performance Materials
MANTRA continues to work on sustainable, high-performance materials for advanced applications by combining natural fibre resources with modern textile technologies.
“This development demonstrates how natural fibres can be transformed into high-performance materials for next-generation applications, including space technology. It is a proud moment for Surat and for India’s textile research community.”
Based in Surat, MANTRA conducts research, testing and development in man-made and technical textiles. Its collaborations with industry and research partners such as Waylla Enterprise cover applications across sectors including industrial and medical textiles, defence and space.