MassChallenge Diamond Winner 2020 (Switzerland)
SgMA (for its Solgelica® technology) was recognised as one of Europe's most promising impact-driven startups.
Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award 2019 for Dr Fanya Ismail
Celebrated for groundbreaking contributions to sustainable technology.
2018 finalists in the global NextGen Cup Challenge by Closed Loop Partners, Starbucks & McDonald's
Recognised as an innovative solution for single-use hot and cold fibre cups.
Patent-Protected Technology
Granted patents and 70+ filed patent applications securing the Solgelica® platform and its applications.
Frequently asked questions
Here you will find answers to the most common questions about our Solgelica® technology and SgMA.
What is Solgelica®?
Solgelica® is a patented paper treatment technology that creates impermeable liquid-resistant and oil-resistant barriers for fibre-based food packaging. Using natural silica sand extracts through the sol-gel process combined with unmodified natural materials, Solgelica® delivers the protective performance manufacturers need without synthetic polymers, forever chemicals, or toxins. The result is barrier technology that's recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable.
What is SgMA?
SgMA (Sol-gel Materials & Applications Ltd) is the advanced materials research, development, and production company behind Solgelica®. Founded in 2017 by Dr Fanya Ismail, we specialise in developing sol-gel technology solutions addressing global material challenges across multiple industries. Our technology platform is protected by granted patents alongside over 70 patent applications across the world. SgMA is backed by leading investors and industry partners.
Who created Solgelica®?
Solgelica® was created by SgMA founder, Dr Fanya Ismail, a chemist with a PhD from the University of Manchester and a Royal Society of Chemistry scholarship. After years of working on sol-gel technology, Fanya designed the Solgelica® molecules on her kitchen table in 2012, driven by a vision to eliminate toxic chemicals in consumer products. Her innovation has earned global recognition, which includes MassChallenge Diamond Winner 2020 (Switzerland), Innovate UK's Women in Innovation Award 2019, and being a finalist in the 2018 NextGen Cup Challenge organised by Starbucks and McDonald’s.
Does Solgelica® perform as well as traditional solutions?
Yes. Solgelica® barrier technology matches the waterproof performance of traditional synthetic polymer-lined packaging. It handles both hot and cold liquids effectively, maintaining structural integrity throughout use. Independent testing confirms Solgelica® is compliant with food safety regulations, including BfR Recommendation XXXVI, and is compositionally compliant with Single-Use Plastics Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/904).
Is Solgelica® heat-sealable?
No. Converters will need to apply glue for forming cups, trays and other fibre-based food and beverage packaging.
Is Solgelica® truly recyclable, biodegradable and compostable?
Yes. This is where we differ from "eco-friendly" alternatives that still contain synthetic polymers or modified biopolymers. Solgelica® is free from toxic chemicals, and µP/*$+!($. Solgelica® is recyclable through existing recycling infrastructure, biodegradable in natural environments, and compostable. Solgelica® complies with the EU Single Use Directive requirements for sustainable packaging.
How can I use Solgelica® for my products?
Solgelica® treated paperboard is commercially available at scale for food and beverage packaging applications, including coffee cups, food trays, and other forms of paper packaging.
Will Solgelica® work with our existing production lines?
Solgelica® treated paperboard will work with many existing production lines, but this will depend on the exact details of your processes. We are always happy to discuss the compatibility of our technology with your manufacturing facilities.