Aviation leather supplier Muirhead has unveiled BioPro Foam – which it describes as a naturally fire-resistant, protein-based aviation biofoam.
The patented development is made with hydrolysed collagen – a by-product of Muirhead’s own leather manufacturing process. BioPro Foam has 20% bio-content, and eliminates substances such as melamine and PFAS found in some seat foams, the company explains.
By combining leather seat covers and BioPro cushions, Muirhead delivers a fully integrated approach aimed at simplifying the development process, reducing lead times, and streamlining the supply chain with a single point of contact.
“By incorporating our own bio-protein into the foam’s chemistry, we’ve eliminated the need for harmful additives while improving durability,” said Dr Warren Bowden, head of innovation and sustainability at Muirhead and Scottish Leather Group. “This sets a new benchmark for next-generation seat foam technology and reflects our commitment to vertically integrated, circular manufacturing.”
Muirhead chemically bonds collagen to the foam chemistry, which it said results in a seat foam that is strong, durable and intumescent. The bio-content becomes a functioning part of the foam, which the company said eliminates internal abrasion and expands its lifespan.
The product is designed to adapt, to provide targeted support for different body types. Muirhead said that its ergonomic performance for a diverse range of passengers had been confirmed in independent testing.
Rather than being cut from large blocks, BioPro is moulded to the customer’s precise specifications, an approach the company said eliminates waste, offers complete customisation, and ensures consistent shape and size.
