Muirhead, a supplier of aviation leather, has developed BioPro Foam, which the company says is the world’s first naturally fire-resistant, protein-based aviation biofoam.
The patented foam is made with hydrolysed collagen, which is a by-product of Muirhead’s own leather manufacturing processes. BioPro Foam has 20% bio-content, and none of the ‘forever chemicals’ such as melamine and PFAS that can be found in some seat foams.
The Muirhead team chemically bond collagen to the foam chemistry, to create a strong, durable and intumescent seat foam. The bio-content becomes a functioning part of the foam, eliminating internal abrasion and lengthening its lifespan.
While traditional foams are cut from large blocks, BioPro is moulded to the specifications of customers, whether airlines, seat OEMs, or airframe manufacturers. This approach eliminates waste and enables a consistent shape and size for the moulded cushions.
The foam is also designed to adapt to support different body types. According to Muirhead, independent tests have confirmed its ergonomic performance.
Muirhead says that the BioPro cushions, combined with its leather seat cover service, creates a one-stop seating option with consistent aesthetics and precise dimensions. This integrated approach simplifies the development process, reduces lead times, and streamlines the supply chain with a single point of contact.
Dr Warren Bowden, head of innovation & sustainability at Muirhead and Scottish Leather Group, said of BioPro: “By incorporating our own bio-protein into the foam’s chemistry, we’ve eliminated the need for harmful additives while improving durability. This sets a new benchmark for next-generation seat foam technology and reflects our commitment to vertically integrated, circular manufacturing.”
