To date, there are no reliable methods for verifying the authenticity of luxury animal-hair textiles. Counterfeits and inferior admixtures are rife, leading to a decline in quality and a loss of trust. The Aachen-based start-up HAIRSENSE has therefore developed a testing method to analyse the authenticity and quality of hair and fibres, based on a combination of high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and artificial intelligence. The start-up offers its own quality analyses as a service. Furthermore, it is seeking partnerships with international facility operators who can carry out hair analyses in their regional areas on the basis of software licences. In addition to animal hair analyses, textile and human hair analyses will also be offered in future, for example for the cosmetics industry. The first pilot customers for this are already in place.
High-Tech.NRW was exactly the right kind of support for us at exactly the right time. The in-depth discussions with industry experts from a strong group of mentors, the honest feedback on IP, investors and focus – and a network that really delivers. Particularly valuable: the interaction with other start-ups, where not only experiences are shared but concrete support is also provided – for example, with questions about funding or setting up a business. An accelerator that not only helps you move forward but is also genuinely enjoyable – highly recommended for high-tech start-ups in the region.
Till Hülsmann
