Muirhead, a frontrunner in high-performance aviation leather, has introduced its ground-breaking BioPRO® foam – the world’s first naturally fire-resistant, protein-based aviation biofoam.
This patented innovation is produced using hydrolysed collagen, a by-product of Muirhead’s leather manufacturing process. Containing 20% bio-content, the product eliminates harmful substances such as melamine and PFAS (‘forever chemicals’) found in traditional seat foams, offering enhanced fire safety, durability, passenger comfort and clear environmental benefits.
By combining leather seat covers with BioPRO® cushions, Muirhead now provides a seamless, all-in-one seating solution with consistent aesthetics and precise dimensions. This fully 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 and Sustainability at Muirhead and Scottish Leather Group, said: “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.”
Muirhead chemically bonds collagen to the foam chemistry, resulting in a seat foam that is stronger, more durable, and intumescent. This process ensures that the bio-content becomes a functional part of the foam, eliminating internal abrasion and extending its lifespan.
The product is designed to adapt, providing targeted support for different body types. Independent testing confirms its exceptional ergonomic performance, ensuring a superior seating experience for a diverse range of passengers.
While traditional foams are cut from large blocks, BioPRO® is moulded to the customer’s precise specifications. This unique approach reduces waste and offers complete customisation for airlines, seat OEMs, and airframe manufacturers. The moulded cushions guarantee consistent shape and size, ensuring uniform aesthetics throughout the cabin.
