Adelya Khayrova
Demeter Bio develops bio-based, PFAS-free coatings that help textile manufacturers replace ‘forever chemicals’.
Project
Demeter Bio
URL
Year founded
2025
Business stage
Seed
High-growth sectors
Advanced Manufacturing
Sector
Biotechnology
Location
London
Funding
Funded Award Winner
The problem and opportunity
PFAS “forever chemicals” are widely used in textile finishing but persist in the environment and face increasing regulatory restrictions. Manufacturers need sustainable alternatives that maintain performance (including water resistance and structural stability) without changing production processes. Most PFAS-free options are petrochemical-based or compromise functionality, creating demand for scalable, bio-based solutions.
The solution and innovation
Demeter Bio has developed AguaShield, a bio-based, PFAS-free coating that provides water and oil repellency using renewable materials. Designed for existing textile finishing lines, it enables easier adoption than many alternatives. The technology has already attracted commercial interest and is being validated through collaborations with industry and leading UK universities.
Market and ambition
We are targeting the global textile finishing market, starting with technical textiles and performance apparel. Over the next three years, we aim to complete pilot validation, secure commercial partnerships to scale up our technology and bring AguaShield to market.
Founder perspective
Dr Adelya Khayrova founded Demeter Bio after more than eight years of research in biopolymers. As a scientist and entrepreneur, she is committed to translating research into commercially viable solutions that tackle one of the industry’s most pressing environmental challenges – replacing PFAS.
Women in Innovation Award
Recipient of an Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award 2025/26, receiving funding, tailored business support, and access to specialist training and networks. View all winners and highly commended applicants from the Women in Innovation cohort 2025/2026.