Fermentation has been used for many centuries in the brewing of beers and wines. Du Pont have developed a new polymer which uses a molecule produced by the fermentation of renewable plant materials. 1,3-propanediol is made when bacteria metabolise starch from corn.

Sorona is a polymer of 1,3-propanediol terephthalate (known as 3GT). The structure of the 3GT molecule makes softer fibres than either polyester (PET) or nylon and allows them to be dyed at a lower temperature.

Sorona is environmentally friendly too. It is made using renewable bio-resources. This reduces the need to use raw materials based on crude oil. It can be recycled, which also helps to reduce any wastes produced.

A molecule of 3GT which is polymerised to make Sorona fibres.