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Digicafé: Espresso meets Industry 4.0 (c) ITA
Digicafé: Espresso meets Industry 4.0
26.08.2025

Espresso meets Industry 4.0

Drink coffee and learn about Industry 4.0 in a fun way – that's what ITA PhD student Rosario Othen has made possible with his digital espresso machine. Rosario equipped the Quickmill espresso machine with a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, programmable pump, integrated scale and current measurement.

All components are networked via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol, enabling process data such as temperature, time, flow rate, weight and energy consumption to be digitally recorded, analysed and visualised. The system is supplemented by a digital simulation model of the machine.

The coffee machine clearly demonstrates how existing systems can be digitised through targeted retrofitting – without expensive new purchases. This allows processes to be analysed, energy consumption and quality to be evaluated, and optimised through targeted parameter adjustment.

Drink coffee and learn about Industry 4.0 in a fun way – that's what ITA PhD student Rosario Othen has made possible with his digital espresso machine. Rosario equipped the Quickmill espresso machine with a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, programmable pump, integrated scale and current measurement.

All components are networked via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol, enabling process data such as temperature, time, flow rate, weight and energy consumption to be digitally recorded, analysed and visualised. The system is supplemented by a digital simulation model of the machine.

The coffee machine clearly demonstrates how existing systems can be digitised through targeted retrofitting – without expensive new purchases. This allows processes to be analysed, energy consumption and quality to be evaluated, and optimised through targeted parameter adjustment.

The entire development process, from technical retrofitting and data connection to digital modelling, was carried out at ITA Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University. The demonstrator has been used at trade fairs and training courses since 2023 to provide a low-threshold introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT), retrofitting and digital process optimisation. It has been continuously developed since then.

The project was implemented as part of the publicly funded Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Smarte Kreisläufe (SME Digital Centre for Smart Cycles) and is a prime example of practical digitalisation in an SME context. It can be viewed or brought along at any time – please contact Rosario Othen (rosario.othen@ita.rwth-aachen.de).

More information:
Industry 4.0 ITA RWTH Aachen digitization SMEs
Source:

ITA – Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University

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Control 5.0 makes circular knitting machines from Mayer & Cie. IOT and knitlink-ready. Mayer & Cie
Control 5.0 makes circular knitting machines from Mayer & Cie. IOT and knitlink-ready.
20.08.2025

ITMA Asia: Mayer & Cie. at the leading Asian trade fair

Mayer & Cie. will participate in ITMA Asia from October 28 to 31, 2025, which takes place in Singapore. ITMA Asia + CITME brings together the international market leaders in the industry and offers a platform for the exchange of information on the latest technologies, sustainability and digitalization. Benjamin Mayer, Managing Partner of Mayer & Cie., says: "For us, ITMA Asia is both an opportunity for customer loyalty and a door opener for new business relationships in one of the most dynamic textile regions in the world."

At its booth, the manufacturer of circular knitting machines and braiding machines will be showing a new circular knitting for jacquard fabrics – the OVJA 2.4 EC II – and will provide an overview of its digital and smart solutions. Another focus is on the machines of Mayer & Cie's "Performance Line": circular knitting machines, which are the most efficient solution in their respective classes. 

Mayer & Cie. will participate in ITMA Asia from October 28 to 31, 2025, which takes place in Singapore. ITMA Asia + CITME brings together the international market leaders in the industry and offers a platform for the exchange of information on the latest technologies, sustainability and digitalization. Benjamin Mayer, Managing Partner of Mayer & Cie., says: "For us, ITMA Asia is both an opportunity for customer loyalty and a door opener for new business relationships in one of the most dynamic textile regions in the world."

At its booth, the manufacturer of circular knitting machines and braiding machines will be showing a new circular knitting for jacquard fabrics – the OVJA 2.4 EC II – and will provide an overview of its digital and smart solutions. Another focus is on the machines of Mayer & Cie's "Performance Line": circular knitting machines, which are the most efficient solution in their respective classes. 

OVJA 2.4 EC II
"The OVJA 2.4 EC II belongs to our product group of circular knitting machines, which are engineered in Germany and manufactured in our factory in China”," says Benjamin Mayer, explaining the machine exhibit at ITMA Asia. “These machines are predominantly aimed at customers from China and Southeast Asia.” Thanks to a new system for single needle selection, the machine impresses with a significantly reduced cylinder height. In addition, fewer knitting elements are required, which significantly reduces the energy consumption of the machine. The OVJA 2.4 EC II produces fabrics for sports and leisure wear; it is also widely used in the field of home textiles, especially mattress cover fabrics – and all this at an attractive price. 

New Control 5.0 machine control system
The new Control 5.0 machine control system for circular knitting machines from Mayer & Cie. has been available since early summer 2025. It makes Mayer & Cie. circular knitting machines Internet-ready – and thus fit for the digital future of textile production. Control 5.0 is a prerequisite for knitlink, Mayer & Cie's digital platform. It is available as an upgrade kit for all machines built from 2001 onwards and is now part of every newly delivered mechanical circular knitting machine.

knithawk
knithawk is a tool for optical defect detection. It sits directly at the knitting point, where the knitted fabric is made. The camera unit, which "scans" the knitted fabric using infrared light, is quickly installed. If knithawk detects a serious or recurring error, the machine is stopped. The tool also creates an error log. 
In this way, knithawk can prevent knitting errors from continuing through many meters of knitted fabric. Thanks to knithawk, resources such as water, natural fibers, polyester and energy are not used for nothing.  knithawk is available for single jersey machines from Mayer & Cie. Customers can order it directly as part of their new machines or equip existing machines with knithawk via upgrade kit. 

120 years of Mayer & Cie. 
The year 2025 is an anniversary year for Mayer & Cie.: On July 8, 2025, the family-owned company celebrated its 120th birthday. The green MCT emblem stands for precision, durability and reliability worldwide, in the field of circular knitting machines as well as in braiding machines.

"We are proud to have taken this path – and we will continue to do so with innovative strength and reliability", says Managing Director Benjamin Mayer.
However, current conditions cast a shadow over the anniversary year. The order situation remains tense in the German textile machinery industry. In view of the various crises worldwide, a trend reversal is not yet in sight. It is difficult for Benjamin Mayer to give an outlook for the future: "We are well positioned as a company, have answers to the needs of the market and modern processes in production. But no one can predict how the world situation and with it the economic situation will develop."

More information:
Mayer & Cie ITMA Asia + CITME digitalization knitting machines
Source:

Mayer & Cie 

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20.08.2025

ECHA publishes updated PFAS restriction proposal

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published the updated proposal to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the EU’s chemicals regulation, REACH. The update has been prepared by the authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden, who submitted the initial proposal in January 2023.

The five authorities, acting as the Dossier Submitter, have completed their evaluation of the more than 5 600 scientific and technical comments received from third parties during the 2023 consultation. Based on the evidence gathered, they have updated their initial restriction proposal. This updated report, called the Background Document, forms the basis for ECHA’s committees’ opinions. This document may still be updated further, based on the evaluation of the committees.

The five authorities have, among other things, identified and carried out assessments for eight sectors that were not specifically named in the initial proposal. These sectors are:

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published the updated proposal to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the EU’s chemicals regulation, REACH. The update has been prepared by the authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden, who submitted the initial proposal in January 2023.

The five authorities, acting as the Dossier Submitter, have completed their evaluation of the more than 5 600 scientific and technical comments received from third parties during the 2023 consultation. Based on the evidence gathered, they have updated their initial restriction proposal. This updated report, called the Background Document, forms the basis for ECHA’s committees’ opinions. This document may still be updated further, based on the evaluation of the committees.

The five authorities have, among other things, identified and carried out assessments for eight sectors that were not specifically named in the initial proposal. These sectors are:

  • printing applications;
  • sealing applications;
  • machinery applications;
  • other medical applications, such as immediate packaging and excipients for pharmaceuticals;
  • military applications;
  • explosives;
  • technical textiles; and
  • broader industrial uses, such as solvents and catalysts.

In addition, they have considered alternative restriction options, beyond a full ban or a ban with time-limited derogations for certain applications. These options involve conditions allowing the continued manufacture, placing on the market or use of PFAS where the risks can be controlled. These alternative options have been assessed by the Dossier Submitter for:

  • PFAS manufacturing;
  • transport;
  • electronics and semiconductors;
  • energy;
  • sealing applications;
  • machinery applications; and
  • technical textiles.

ECHA’s scientific committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and for Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) continue to evaluate the proposed restriction. The Agency aims to provide the European Commission with a transparent, independent, and high-quality RAC and SEAC opinion as soon as possible.
The European Commission will ultimately decide on the restriction in consultation with the EU Member States.

Background
The proposal to restrict PFAS in the EU/EEA was prepared by authorities in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. It was submitted to ECHA on 13 January 2023. It aims to reduce PFAS emissions into the environment and make products and processes safer for people. The six-month consultation ran from 22 March to 25 September 2023.
Currently, ECHA’s scientific committees, comprised of independent experts from EU Member States, are evaluating the proposal.

More information:
ECHA PFAS PFAS-free European Chemicals Agency European Commission
Source:

European Chemicals Agency

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Contract signature at Kherib familly’s facility in Bejaia, Algeria. From left to right: Caterina Potenza (Sales Agent), Farid Kherib (Founder of SNC Kherib), Nicolas Canas (ANDRITZ Area Sales Manager), Smail Kherib (General Manager of SNC Kherib), Arnaud Laroche (ANDRITZ Head of Sales Spunlace) Photo Andritz AG
Contract signature at Kherib familly’s facility in Bejaia, Algeria. From left to right: Caterina Potenza (Sales Agent), Farid Kherib (Founder of SNC Kherib), Nicolas Canas (ANDRITZ Area Sales Manager), Smail Kherib (General Manager of SNC Kherib), Arnaud Laroche (ANDRITZ Head of Sales Spunlace)
19.08.2025

First Spunlace line from ANDRITZ in the African market

SNC Kherib et Cie. has awarded ANDRITZ an order to supply a complete spunlace line for its plant located in Bejaia City, Algeria. The start-up is scheduled for the end of Q3 2026.

This will be the very first ANDRITZ spunlace line installed on the African continent. The line will process both viscose and polyester fibers, enabling SNC Kherib to produce high-quality spunlace roll goods for the wet wipes markets to meet the growing needs of African consumers. This project marks a significant step in the development of the spunlace industry in Africa and opens the door to new opportunities for local converters.

The project is a family investment, with each member of the Kherib family actively involved. As a pioneer in the African market, SNC Kherib is leading the way in introducing advanced spunlace technology to the region.

Farid Kherib, founder of SNC Kherib, states: “We are proud to collaborate with a global leader like ANDRITZ. This partnership highlights our commitment and passion for developing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of the African market using state-of-the-art equipment.”

SNC Kherib et Cie. has awarded ANDRITZ an order to supply a complete spunlace line for its plant located in Bejaia City, Algeria. The start-up is scheduled for the end of Q3 2026.

This will be the very first ANDRITZ spunlace line installed on the African continent. The line will process both viscose and polyester fibers, enabling SNC Kherib to produce high-quality spunlace roll goods for the wet wipes markets to meet the growing needs of African consumers. This project marks a significant step in the development of the spunlace industry in Africa and opens the door to new opportunities for local converters.

The project is a family investment, with each member of the Kherib family actively involved. As a pioneer in the African market, SNC Kherib is leading the way in introducing advanced spunlace technology to the region.

Farid Kherib, founder of SNC Kherib, states: “We are proud to collaborate with a global leader like ANDRITZ. This partnership highlights our commitment and passion for developing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of the African market using state-of-the-art equipment.”

The value of the order will not be disclosed. It is included in ANDRITZ’s order intake for the first quarter of 2025.

Based in the Bejaia area of Algeria, SNC Kherib is a family business dedicated to a wide range of activities including the production of nonwovens (viscose and cotton cleaning cloths, polyester wadding for mattress and pillows, etc.), PVC cling film, PP woven bags, as well as PVC doors and sandwich panels.

More information:
Andritz AG Spunlace-Linie Algeria
Source:

Andritz AG

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Position Paper: Euratex welcomes Southeast Asia FTAs
08.08.2025

Euratex welcomes Southeast Asia FTAs

EURATEX strongly supports the swift conclusion of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the European Union and four key Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. These FTAs are essential to enhance the competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability of the European textile and apparel industry.

The European textile sector is highly globalised, with over €60 billion in annual exports and more than half generated by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With rising global competition, particularly from China, the EU must act decisively to diversify trade, reduce dependency, and unlock new opportunities in the ASEAN region.

EURATEX advocates for FTAs that ensure:

EURATEX strongly supports the swift conclusion of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the European Union and four key Southeast Asian countries: Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. These FTAs are essential to enhance the competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability of the European textile and apparel industry.

The European textile sector is highly globalised, with over €60 billion in annual exports and more than half generated by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With rising global competition, particularly from China, the EU must act decisively to diversify trade, reduce dependency, and unlock new opportunities in the ASEAN region.

EURATEX advocates for FTAs that ensure:

  • Open and efficient markets through reduced tariffs and fewer trade barriers
  • Legal certainty and protection of intellectual property rights for European businesses
  • Sustainable development goals, aligned with international social and environmental standards
  • Complementarity between EU trade and industrial policy, including better access to raw materials
  • A rules-based trading system that ensures fair enforcement and accountability
  • Strong support for WTO principles, including reforms on subsidies, public procurement, and IPR

Each of the four partner countries presents unique opportunities:

  • Indonesia: As a major Southeast Asian economy, a deal would improve market access, reduce non-tariff barriers, and strengthen EU investment.
  • Thailand: A strategic trade hub, offering prospects for resilient supply chains and streamlined customs procedures.
  • Philippines: An emerging market with growing demand and potential for enhanced cooperation on EU standards.
  • Malaysia: A CPTPP and RCEP member, offering EU companies a gateway to wider Asian markets and high-value manufacturing partnerships.

To ensure mutual benefit, EURATEX highlights the need for modern rules of origin, effective customs enforcement, non-tariff barrier elimination, and public procurement access. Cumulation provisions, such as including Türkiye in the Malaysia agreement, should also be considered.

In the face of growing geopolitical uncertainty and global overcapacity—especially in the synthetic fibre segment—these FTAs offer a strategic response. They not only secure fair trade but also reinforce the EU’s presence in a region vital to the future of sustainable and competitive textiles.

More information:
Euratex FTA European Union indonesia Thailand Philippines Malaysia
Source:

Euratex

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07.08.2025

SGL Carbon: Half Year Report 2025

  • Weak demand from semiconductor customers weighs on Group sales and earnings performance
  • Restructuring of Carbon Fibers business unit successfully on track
  • EBITDA margin almost stable at 16.0% in half-year comparison 
  • Sales forecast for 2025 slightly adapted, adjusted EBITDA expectations confirmed

Increasing uncertainty about the future development of global trade, tariff increases between the US and Europe, and weak demand in some of their markets are weighing on SGL Carbon's sales and earnings performance. On the other hand, the restructuring of SGL's Carbon Fibers business unit is showing initial signs of success. After six months of fiscal 2025, SGL Carbon generated sales of €453.2 million, down 15.8% on the previous year (H1 2024: €538.0 million).

  • Weak demand from semiconductor customers weighs on Group sales and earnings performance
  • Restructuring of Carbon Fibers business unit successfully on track
  • EBITDA margin almost stable at 16.0% in half-year comparison 
  • Sales forecast for 2025 slightly adapted, adjusted EBITDA expectations confirmed

Increasing uncertainty about the future development of global trade, tariff increases between the US and Europe, and weak demand in some of their markets are weighing on SGL Carbon's sales and earnings performance. On the other hand, the restructuring of SGL's Carbon Fibers business unit is showing initial signs of success. After six months of fiscal 2025, SGL Carbon generated sales of €453.2 million, down 15.8% on the previous year (H1 2024: €538.0 million).

The decline in sales within the Group is primarily attributable to negative volume effects, while currency and price effects played only a minor role. In particular, the continuing weak demand from semiconductor customers in the Graphite Solutions business unit weighed on sales development. Furthermore, the Carbon Fibers business unit reported lower sales as a result of the discontinuation of unprofitable business activities as part of the restructuring.

The cost savings resulting from the restructuring of Carbon Fibers and a slight improvement in adjusted EBITDA in the Process Technology business unit were unable to offset the shortfall in earnings contributions from the decline in the high-margin semiconductor business. Adjusted EBITDA, an important key figure for the Group, decreased by 16.2% compared to the first half of 2024 to €72.5 million (H1 2024: €86.5 million). The adjusted EBITDA margin remained almost unchanged at 16.0% compared to the previous year (H1 2024: 16.1%).

Taking into account depreciation and amortization of €25.8 million (H1 2024: €27.0 million) and non-recurring and special items of minus €49.9 million (H1 2024: €3.6 million), EBIT for the first half of 2025 amounted to €3.2 million (H1 2024: €55.9 million). The non-recurring and special items result in particular from restructuring expenses of €47.0 million.

The restructuring announced in February 2025 showed initial success in the first half of 2025, with positive adjusted EBITDA for the Carbon Fibers (CF) business unit. The discontinuation of loss-making business activities resulted in a 15.1% decline in sales to €93.5 million (H1 2024: €110.1 million) but also led to an increase in adjusted EBITDA for CF from minus €4.4 million to €5.2 million year-on-year.

"As part of the CF restructuring, production at our site in Lavradio (Portugal), which mainly produced acrylic fibers and precursors for carbon fibers, was closed down. Production and consequently also our business activities in the acrylic fibers and precursors product areas were completely discontinued at the end of June 2025. CF will focus in future on profitable products with greater differentiation from the international competition," said Dr. Stephan Bühler, member of the Executive Board responsible for this area.

It should be noted that the adjusted EBITDA of the CF business unit includes an earnings contribution of €4.7 million from its equity-accounted joint venture BSCCB (H1 2024: €7.9 million). The decline in BSCCB's earnings contribution is due to the costs of expanding production capacity and volatile demand from automotive customers. Excluding the earnings contribution of the equity-accounted BSCCB, adjusted EBITDA for CF would have been €0.5 million (H1 2024: minus €12.3 million).

The Composite Solutions (CS) business unit was also unable to avoid the increasing uncertainty in the automotive industry about future growth prospects. CS sales declined by 11.7% to €59.1 million in the first half of 2025 (H1 2024: €66.9 million). It should be noted that the first six months of the previous year still included sales from a contract with an automotive customer that expired in the second quarter of 2024.

As a result of lower volumes and the associated lower utilization of production capacities, CS's adjusted EBITDA decreased by €2.7 million to €5.4 million (H1 2024: €8.1 million) compared to the same period last year. Accordingly, the adjusted EBITDA margin of CS declined to 9.1% (H1 2024: 12.1%).

Outlook
Increasing trade barriers, especially due to US tariff policy, are having a negative impact on the business development of their customers and sales markets. In particular, the high level of uncertainty about future developments in the automotive industry is currently weighing on demand for the company’s products. This also includes expected sales of electric vehicles, which are the main drivers of demand for silicon carbide semiconductors. Special graphite components from SGL Carbon are required to manufacture these high-performance semiconductors.

In light of the current economic environment and the expectations for developments in the sales markets in the upcoming months and taking into account restructuring measures in the Carbon Fibers business unit, the sales forecast for fiscal year 2025 is adjusted on July 14, 2025. Consolidated sales for the full fiscal year 2025 are expected to decline by 10% to 15% compared with the previous year (2024: €1,026.4 million). Previously, SGL Carbon had expected sales to decrease by up to 10% (slight decline) compared with the previous year.

Due to the discontinuation of loss-making business activities in the Carbon Fibers business unit and cost savings as part of the successful restructuring and associated improvement in profitability, the forecast for the Group's adjusted EBITDA for fiscal year 2025 remains unchanged in the range of €130 million to €150 million.

More information:
carbon fibers SGL Carbon half-year results outlook Automotive
Source:

SGL Carbon

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This piece of fabric is coated with a new non-stick material made via a technique called nanoscale fletching, developed by researchers in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering in U of T's Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering Photo by Samuel Au, University of Toronto
This piece of fabric is coated with a new non-stick material made via a technique called nanoscale fletching, developed by researchers in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering in U of T's Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
05.08.2025

University of Toronto: Safer alternative to conventional PFAS

A new material developed by University of Toronto researchers could offer a safer alternative to the non-stick chemicals commonly used in cookware and other applications. 

The substance is capable of repelling water and grease about as well as standard non-stick coatings; it also contains far lower amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a family of chemicals – that includes Teflon – that have raised environmental and health concerns.

It was developed in the Durable Repellent Engineered Advanced Materials (DREAM) laboratory at U of T’s Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering using a novel chemistry technique described in Nature Communications.

“The research community has been trying to develop safer alternatives to PFAS for a long time,” says Kevin Golovin, an associate professor in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering who heads the DREAM lab. “The challenge is that while it’s easy to create a substance that will repel water, it’s hard to make one that will also repel oil and grease to the same degree. Scientists had hit an upper limit to the performance of these alternative materials.” 

A new material developed by University of Toronto researchers could offer a safer alternative to the non-stick chemicals commonly used in cookware and other applications. 

The substance is capable of repelling water and grease about as well as standard non-stick coatings; it also contains far lower amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a family of chemicals – that includes Teflon – that have raised environmental and health concerns.

It was developed in the Durable Repellent Engineered Advanced Materials (DREAM) laboratory at U of T’s Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering using a novel chemistry technique described in Nature Communications.

“The research community has been trying to develop safer alternatives to PFAS for a long time,” says Kevin Golovin, an associate professor in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering who heads the DREAM lab. “The challenge is that while it’s easy to create a substance that will repel water, it’s hard to make one that will also repel oil and grease to the same degree. Scientists had hit an upper limit to the performance of these alternative materials.” 

Since its invention in the late 1930s, Teflon – also known as polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE – has been prized for its ability to repel water, oil and grease alike.

Its non-stick properties are the result of the inertness of carbon-fluorine bonds, with PFAS molecules consisting of chains of carbon atoms, each bonded to several fluorine atoms.

However, this chemical inertness also causes PFAS to resist the normal processes that would break down other organic molecules over time. For this reason, they are sometimes called ‘forever chemicals.’ 

In addition to their persistence, PFAS are known to accumulate in biological tissues, and their concentrations can become amplified as they travel up the food chain. 

Various studies have linked exposure to high levels of PFAS to certain types of cancer, birth defects and other health problems, with longer-chain PFAS generally considered more harmful than the shorter-chain variety.

Despite the risks, the lack of alternatives means that PFAS remain ubiquitous in consumer products: in addition to cookware, they are used in rain-resistant fabrics, food packaging and cosmetics.

The material Golovin’s team have been working with is an alternative to PFAS called polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).

“PDMS is often sold under the name silicone, and depending on how it’s formulated, it can be very biocompatible – in fact it’s often used in devices that are meant to be implanted into the body,” says Golovin. “But until now, we couldn’t get PDMS to perform quite as well as PFAS.” 

To overcome this problem, PhD student Samuel Au developed a new technique called nanoscale fletching which involves bonding short chains of PDMS to a base material – which Au likens to bristles on a brush.

“To improve their ability to repel oil, we have now added in the shortest possible PFAS molecule, consisting of a single carbon with three fluorines on it. We were able to bond about seven of those to the end of each PDMS bristle,” says Au.

“If you were able to shrink down to the nanometre scale, it would look a bit like the feathers that you see around the back end of an arrow, where it notches to the bow. That’s called fletching, so this is nanoscale fletching.” 

The team coated the new material on a piece of fabric, before placing drops of various oils on it to test its repellency.

The coating achieved a grade of 6 on an American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists scale – placing it on par with many standard PFAS-based coatings.

“While we did use a PFAS molecule in this process, it is the shortest possible one and therefore does not bioaccumulate,” says Golovin. 

“What we’ve seen in the literature, and even in the regulations, is that it’s the longest-chain PFAS that are getting banned first, with the shorter ones considered much less harmful. Our hybrid material provides the same performance as what had been achieved with long-chain PFAS, but with greatly reduced risk.” 

Golovin says the team is open to collaborating with manufacturers of non-stick coatings who might wish to scale up and commercialize the process. In the meantime, they will continue working on even more alternatives. 

“The holy grail of this field would be a substance that outperforms Teflon, but with no PFAS at all,” says Golovin. “We’re not quite there yet, but this is an important step in the right direction.” 

More information:
intelligent textile coatings University of Toronto PFAS PFAS-free
Source:

Tyler Irving, University of Toronto

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05.08.2025

AEQUALIS4TCLF: Strategy, Education, and Social Innovation in Europe’s TCLF Industries

On the 1st and 2nd of July, 19 textile, clothing, leather, and footwear representatives from 8 European countries gathered at Amsterdam Fashion Institute in the Netherlands to drive forward the Erasmus+ Blueprint AEQUALIS4TCLF project. This bold initiative is set to transform the TCLF industries through a strategic, educational, and social lens, paving the way for more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready sectors.

One of the project’s key deliverables is the upcoming European TCLF Skills Strategy, designed to respond to the impact on companies’ workforce of the rapidly technological, circular and social transformations. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative insights from stakeholders, ranging from businesses and policymakers to education providers, the updated strategy will inform the development of consecutive tailored national skills strategies. These strategies will then be rolled out by national project partners, with strong support from industry, education and institutional actors.

On the 1st and 2nd of July, 19 textile, clothing, leather, and footwear representatives from 8 European countries gathered at Amsterdam Fashion Institute in the Netherlands to drive forward the Erasmus+ Blueprint AEQUALIS4TCLF project. This bold initiative is set to transform the TCLF industries through a strategic, educational, and social lens, paving the way for more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready sectors.

One of the project’s key deliverables is the upcoming European TCLF Skills Strategy, designed to respond to the impact on companies’ workforce of the rapidly technological, circular and social transformations. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative insights from stakeholders, ranging from businesses and policymakers to education providers, the updated strategy will inform the development of consecutive tailored national skills strategies. These strategies will then be rolled out by national project partners, with strong support from industry, education and institutional actors.

AEQUALIS4TCLF is also pioneering change in the classroom. Eight brand-new curricula focused on sustainable and digital fashion have already been developed, and then respective training content are under development. To ensure accessibility and engagement, partners are creating an array of innovative learning resources, from interactive e-books and videos to hands-on activities and assessments. All materials will be available online and free of charge, equipping learners and educators alike for the green and digital transitions.

At its heart, AEQUALIS4TCLF is also a social project. A rich programme of workshops, both online and in person, is being rolled out across all partner countries, addressing critical topics such as diversity, innovation, and wellbeing in the workplace. Meanwhile, a TCLF network-building effort is underway to boost collaboration at both local and European levels. This includes the creation of regional TCLF Pacts for Skills, tailored to the unique needs of local economies, and two European-level networks: one uniting education providers to share best practices and foster excellence, and another engaging regional public authorities in supporting TCLF education for the new era.

The AEQUALIS4TCLF project is co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.

More information:
EU project Erasmus+ pact for skills skills strategy Education
Source:

European Commission; AEQUALIS4TCLF

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T-REX blueprint Graphic (c) T-Rex
T-REX blueprint
05.08.2025

EU-Project T-REX: Final reflections and roadmap for textile-to-textile recycling

The EU funded T REX Project , which ran from June 2022 to May 2025, has wrapped up with a detailed blueprint for scaling textile to textile recycling. The roadmap brings together the work of 13 industry partners across Europe and captures what they’ve learnt through real world trials in recycling polyester, polyamide 6 and cellulosic materials.

The blueprint highlights what’s needed to scale textile-to-textile recycling. It points to key technical challenges like inefficient manual sorting and lack of high-quality waste textiles. Better automation, more efficient pre-processing, and a stable feedstock supply are seen as crucial next steps. Environmental impacts and business feasibility have also been considered throughout.

Policy support will be key to taking this forward. The project calls for consistent end-of-waste criteria, targets for recycled content, and shared definitions of recyclability. It also stresses the need for stronger financial and regulatory backing. Together with efforts in design, reuse and repair, this work aims to move the textile industry closer to a circular model.

The EU funded T REX Project , which ran from June 2022 to May 2025, has wrapped up with a detailed blueprint for scaling textile to textile recycling. The roadmap brings together the work of 13 industry partners across Europe and captures what they’ve learnt through real world trials in recycling polyester, polyamide 6 and cellulosic materials.

The blueprint highlights what’s needed to scale textile-to-textile recycling. It points to key technical challenges like inefficient manual sorting and lack of high-quality waste textiles. Better automation, more efficient pre-processing, and a stable feedstock supply are seen as crucial next steps. Environmental impacts and business feasibility have also been considered throughout.

Policy support will be key to taking this forward. The project calls for consistent end-of-waste criteria, targets for recycled content, and shared definitions of recyclability. It also stresses the need for stronger financial and regulatory backing. Together with efforts in design, reuse and repair, this work aims to move the textile industry closer to a circular model.

More information:
EU project textile-to-textile recycling European Commission
Source:

T-Rex

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04.08.2025

Livinguard Technologies: New odor control solution significantly reducing microfiber shedding in textiles

The Swiss material science company Livinguard Technologies AG developed Livinguard Better Fresh - a textile finishing solution that combines leading odor control functionality with an innovative mechanism which reduces the shedding of microfibers over the entire lifetime of textiles. This technology marks a bold step towards a more sustainable future of apparel and provides a tangible solution to tackle the mounting challenge of chemical and microplastic pollution stemming from clothes. 

The environmental impact of textiles arising from microfiber shedding has increased over the past years as the use of synthetic fibers in the apparel industry continues to grow and fast fashion business models continue to gain share. Fiber fragmentation and resulting microplastic and chemical pollution affects waterways, the air and soil.

The Swiss material science company Livinguard Technologies AG developed Livinguard Better Fresh - a textile finishing solution that combines leading odor control functionality with an innovative mechanism which reduces the shedding of microfibers over the entire lifetime of textiles. This technology marks a bold step towards a more sustainable future of apparel and provides a tangible solution to tackle the mounting challenge of chemical and microplastic pollution stemming from clothes. 

The environmental impact of textiles arising from microfiber shedding has increased over the past years as the use of synthetic fibers in the apparel industry continues to grow and fast fashion business models continue to gain share. Fiber fragmentation and resulting microplastic and chemical pollution affects waterways, the air and soil.

Livinguard Better Fresh combines a functional and an environmental benefit in a single solution. On the one hand, the technology provides leading odor control which is a valuable functional benefit for consumers. On the other hand, the solution reduces fiber fragmentation by up to 80% and extends the product’s useful life - resulting in a superior safety, environmental, and cost profile for apparel brands. Both claims have been extensively validated in the course of several in-house trials and testing conducted with independent laboratories.

This new product is the result of a long development journey with deep global collaboration. Livinguard leveraged extensive R&D investments over the past 15 years to develop a proprietary blend of chemistry that has then been thoroughly tested for performance, safety, environmental impact, and compliance with the highest industry standards in mind (e.g. bluesign). Furthermore, Livinguard Technologies used the company’s extensive knowhow in textile finishing to optimize and streamline the application of the technology in a real-world environment, ensuring the innovation can be deployed seamlessly on existing equipment and in established processes. 

Recognizing that awareness for the environmental impact of textile microfiber shedding is still emerging among consumers and that demand for solutions addressing this issue alone may be consequently limited, Livinguard Technologies have chosen to integrate odor control functionality, a well-understood and valued benefit, with this innovative fiber protection technology. This two-in-one solution allows brands and manufacturers alike to fund most costs for the chemical solution itself and for managing the complexity associated with its implementation by substituting their existing odor control technologies with Livinguard Better Fresh. Many established odor control solutions are prone to leach out over time and consequently increase chemical pollution arising from textiles. Livinguard’s new technology binds permanently to the treated fibers and strongly holds them together to ensure the least possible chemical and microfiber discharge. 
The Livinguard Better Fresh technology is officially launched during the Functional Fabric Fair in NYC and Functional Textiles in Shanghai while further validation activities are carried out with partners from academia, external laboratories as well as pilot customers (apparel brands & textile mills) worldwide.

This new technology can substantially contribute to various established solution pathways for microfiber pollution as it allows for the development or further improvement of low-shedding fabrics with minimal impact on established production equipment and supply chains. Furthermore, due to its built-in odor control functionality, it enables consumers to use their clothes longer and adopt more sustainable laundry practices (e.g. washing at lower temperatures). Finally, it enhances product longevity without any negative impact on recycling / circularity of the treated clothes. Overall, Livinguard Better Fresh provides a cost-effective solution to make tangible and substantial progress in the fight against plastic pollution quickly. 

More information:
Livinguard Technologies AG odor control microfibre shedding textile finishing microplastic pollution
Source:

Livinguard Technologies AG

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air lock system of low pressure oven Photo (c) DITF
air lock system of low pressure oven
01.08.2025

Carbowave: Energy Efficiency in Carbon Fiber Production

A new technology uses microwaves and plasma heating to produce carbon fibers in an energy-efficient manner. This means high-strength composite materials can be produced more cheaply and efficiently. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) are part of the Carbowave research consortium, which aims to improve and commercialize microwave and plasma-induced carbonization.

The combination of high strength and low weight makes carbon fibers almost indispensable in manufacturing modern lightweight products. Major industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy, are increasingly relying on high-strength carbon fiber composites.

Despite their advantages, these materials are complex and energy-intensive to produce. Stabilization and carbonization of the fibers, which are often made from petroleum-based polyacrylonitrile (PAN), requires slow process control in high-temperature furnaces. Despite the considerable energy input, a low material yield is achieved due to the long dwell time in the ovens.

A new technology uses microwaves and plasma heating to produce carbon fibers in an energy-efficient manner. This means high-strength composite materials can be produced more cheaply and efficiently. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) are part of the Carbowave research consortium, which aims to improve and commercialize microwave and plasma-induced carbonization.

The combination of high strength and low weight makes carbon fibers almost indispensable in manufacturing modern lightweight products. Major industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy, are increasingly relying on high-strength carbon fiber composites.

Despite their advantages, these materials are complex and energy-intensive to produce. Stabilization and carbonization of the fibers, which are often made from petroleum-based polyacrylonitrile (PAN), requires slow process control in high-temperature furnaces. Despite the considerable energy input, a low material yield is achieved due to the long dwell time in the ovens.

A new process uses microwave and plasma heating to replace the traditional stabilization and carbonization process with energy-saving technology. With this technology, energy is only induced into the fibers locally, thereby minimizing energy loss. This process shortens the production time of carbon fibers, enabling higher production volumes with lower energy consumption.

A European research consortium has joined forces under the name "Carbowave" to optimize and market the process. Their specific research objectives are to develop an optimal coating for PAN fibers that improves microwave adsorption, to develop a plasma heating system for the oxidative stabilization of PAN fibers, and to advance microwave and plasma technology for continuous processes.

The DITF are responsible for implementing these processes in continuous production and on pilot lines in a pilot plant. In the joint project, the central task of the DITF is the stabilization of the precursor fibers with plasma technology. This involves combining plasma and low-pressure technology to reduce energy consumption in the stabilization process.

In terms of the circular economy, the Carbowave project includes recycling of carbon fibers. The new process technologies will allow for the microwave-assisted decomposition of carbon fiber composites (CFRP).

Thus, the Carbowave research consortium provides a holistic approach that includes the production and recycling of modern lightweight materials.

More information:
carbon fibers recycled carbon fibers Composites carbon-fiber composite Plasma microwave Forschungsarbeiten circular economy Deutsche Institute für Textil- und Faserforschung Denkendorf
Source:

Deutsche Institute für Textil- und Faserforschung Denkendorf

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(f.l.t.r.): ProfessorDr Roshan Paul, Professor Dr Mário Lino Barata Raposo (Rector, University of Beira Interior), Professor Dr Mário Marques Freire (Head of the Faculty of Engineering) and Professor Dr Nuno José Ramos Belino (Head of the Department of Textile Science and Technology) Photo: private
(f.l.t.r.): ProfessorDr Roshan Paul, Professor Dr Mário Lino Barata Raposo (Rector, University of Beira Interior), Professor Dr Mário Marques Freire (Head of the Faculty of Engineering) and Professor Dr Nuno José Ramos Belino (Head of the Department of Textile Science and Technology)
30.07.2025

Roshan Paul appointed as Full Professor at UBI, Portugal

Roshan Paul, Ph.D. (Tech.) was recently honoured with the position of Full Professor (by invitation) Professor Catedrático Convidado by the Rector, Prof. Mário Lino Barata Raposo of University of Beira Interior (UBI), Portugal. This highest position was offered to him in recognition of his outstanding scientific contributions, particularly for pioneering sustainable innovations in textile processing technology.

Roshan Paul was serving as a Professor (by invitation) in UBI from 2015 onwards. He works as Platform Leader of the Smart Finishing Group at Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University.

Professor Paul was also invited to join the Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies (FibEnTech) research unit. FibEnTech is a unique research unit that brings together fundamental and applied research skills for the development and characterisation of fibrous, structured and composite materials for the textile, paper and packaging industries.

Roshan Paul, Ph.D. (Tech.) was recently honoured with the position of Full Professor (by invitation) Professor Catedrático Convidado by the Rector, Prof. Mário Lino Barata Raposo of University of Beira Interior (UBI), Portugal. This highest position was offered to him in recognition of his outstanding scientific contributions, particularly for pioneering sustainable innovations in textile processing technology.

Roshan Paul was serving as a Professor (by invitation) in UBI from 2015 onwards. He works as Platform Leader of the Smart Finishing Group at Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University.

Professor Paul was also invited to join the Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies (FibEnTech) research unit. FibEnTech is a unique research unit that brings together fundamental and applied research skills for the development and characterisation of fibrous, structured and composite materials for the textile, paper and packaging industries.

More information:
Dr. Roshan Paul Universität von Beira Interior Portugal textile processing technology RWTH Aachen, ITA, Textiltechnik
Source:

ITA – Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University

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bluesign
24.07.2025

Bluesign: 25 Years as a Global Leader in Sustainable Textile Innovation

2025 marks a pivotal milestone for bluesign, the global authority in sustainable chemical and environmental management for the textile and fashion industry, as it celebrates 25 years of advancing cleaner, safer, and more responsible manufacturing practices across the global supply chain.

Since 2000, the Swiss-founded company has led the global charge towards a more sustainable future, developing a science-based, input stream management system to eliminate harmful substances at the source of textile production. Now spanning 900+ system partners across the globe, bluesign continues to deliver measurable reduction in environmental impact at an unprecedented scale. The company sets the global benchmark for responsible production with stringent criteria for chemical use, environmental performance, and resource efficiency, and  serves as a one-stop resource for navigating ESG and upcoming legislation  (CSDDD, CSR, ESPR, DPP etc), helping partners stay ahead of global compliance standards while embedding verified sustainability into every stage of production.

2025 marks a pivotal milestone for bluesign, the global authority in sustainable chemical and environmental management for the textile and fashion industry, as it celebrates 25 years of advancing cleaner, safer, and more responsible manufacturing practices across the global supply chain.

Since 2000, the Swiss-founded company has led the global charge towards a more sustainable future, developing a science-based, input stream management system to eliminate harmful substances at the source of textile production. Now spanning 900+ system partners across the globe, bluesign continues to deliver measurable reduction in environmental impact at an unprecedented scale. The company sets the global benchmark for responsible production with stringent criteria for chemical use, environmental performance, and resource efficiency, and  serves as a one-stop resource for navigating ESG and upcoming legislation  (CSDDD, CSR, ESPR, DPP etc), helping partners stay ahead of global compliance standards while embedding verified sustainability into every stage of production.

From its inception, bluesign’s mission has remained clear: remove harmful chemicals from textile production from the beginning, and hence ensure safer working conditions, reduced harm on the environment, and deliver safer products for consumers. Over 25 years, this mission has only strengthened, evolving to meet global challenges like PFAS elimination, decarbonization, and circularity, while driving continuous improvement across the industry.

Measurable Impact at Scale
The bluesign System enables its partners to make verified, measurable progress toward sustainability goals:

  • Safer chemistry and materials: Over 28,000 chemical products and 70,000 textile materials carry the bluesign APPROVED status, signaling compliance with the strictest industry criteria and elimination of hazardous substances including CMRs and PFAS.
  • Environmental Performance: Since 2019, bluesign System Partner manufacturers have collectively achieved the following improvements in environmental footprint:
  • Global Reach: The bluesign network now includes over 900 System Partners across the world, including chemical suppliers, textile mills, manufacturers, and brands.
  • Worker & Consumer Safety: The bluesign System ensures safe conditions for workers and non-toxic products for consumers, built on a foundation of transparency and accountability.

bluesign’s unique value lies in its holistic system, which tracks and verifies impact at every stage—from chemical inputs to final product. The independent, science-based verification process goes beyond traditional certification to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous sustainability improvements, building trust with stakeholders and empowering the industry to move forward responsibly.

Looking Ahead: The Next 25 Years
As the industry faces new challenges, including circularity and legislative shifts, bluesign continues advancing solutions that protect workers, consumers, and the environment, and remains committed to innovation and global impact.

As the industry faces new challenges, including due diligence, extended producer responsibility, and digital product passports, legislative shifts under the EU Green Deal, and rising expectations around circularity, bluesign remains committed to innovation and impact.

“bluesign was born out of a bold idea, that sustainability could be embedded into the DNA of product creation,” said Daniel Rüfenacht, CEO of bluesign technologies. “Twenty-five years later, we’re proud to be a beacon of trust, innovation, and responsibility, and to partner with industry leaders worldwide in building a more sustainable future together.”

More information:
bluesign bluesign® Anniversary
Source:

bluesign technologies ag 

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22.07.2025

Functional Fabric Fair: New winter edition 2026 alongside PGA Show in Orlando

Starting in 2026, Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® will expand its portfolio with a fourth edition: the new Winter Edition in Orlando, Florida. The event will take place on January 21–22, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in the Tangerine Ballroom – co-located with the renowned PGA Show, the world's largest and longest-running golf industry trade event, organized by Reed Exhibitions (RX) and the PGA of America. 

The new Winter Edition will host 75 curated exhibitors and spotlight key content formats including the Trend Forum and popular Expert Talks. Registration opens in September 2025, is free of charge for verified industry professionals, and separate from PGA Show registration. 

The roots of the Functional Fabric Fair can be traced back to the PGA Show, where in 2016 a dedicated raw materials area was introduced for the first time. It quickly became a hotspot for performance innovations – growing in size and industry relevance. 

Starting in 2026, Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® will expand its portfolio with a fourth edition: the new Winter Edition in Orlando, Florida. The event will take place on January 21–22, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in the Tangerine Ballroom – co-located with the renowned PGA Show, the world's largest and longest-running golf industry trade event, organized by Reed Exhibitions (RX) and the PGA of America. 

The new Winter Edition will host 75 curated exhibitors and spotlight key content formats including the Trend Forum and popular Expert Talks. Registration opens in September 2025, is free of charge for verified industry professionals, and separate from PGA Show registration. 

The roots of the Functional Fabric Fair can be traced back to the PGA Show, where in 2016 a dedicated raw materials area was introduced for the first time. It quickly became a hotspot for performance innovations – growing in size and industry relevance. 

By 2018, the success of this initiative led to the launch of Functional Fabric Fair as an independent platform. Today, the fair brings together more than 1,000 international exhibitors and over 8,000 visitors annually – all centered around performance, sustainability, and innovation. 

Momentum for growth: PERFORMANCE DAYS as a global success story 
Functional Fabric Fair is the North American sister show of PERFORMANCE DAYS, Europe’s leading sourcing platform for high-performance textiles and sustainable innovations. All editions – from Portland to New York City, and now Orlando – follow a clear concept: certified sustainability standards, future-oriented materials, and a strong educational program with expert speakers and industry insights. 

This international expansion highlights the continued demand for responsible product development and innovative sourcing formats – a mission PERFORMANCE DAYS has championed from the very beginning. 
 
Exhibition space sold out: PERFORMANCE DAYS Munich fully booked for October 
The organizers announced that the upcoming PERFORMANCE DAYS in Munich, taking place on October 29–30, 2025, is completely sold out – even after expanding the original floor plan. 

Now, the countdown begins for the event: 

  • DAY 0 Conference focused on waste (“In nature there is no waste”) 
  • Special themed areas covering key industry topics 
  • Expert Talks featuring top-level speakers 
  • Hands-on workshops for practical exchange 
  • And of course – the Trend Forum with a brand-new Focus Topic (Textile to Textile – the role of recyclers”) 
More information:
Performance Days Functional Fabric Fair Orlando, USA
Source:

PERFORMANCE DAYS functional fabric fair

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17.07.2025

PERFORMANCE DAYS: Textile to Textile - the role of recyclers?

The October 2025 edition of PERFORMANCE DAYS, taking place from October 29–30 in Munich, will spotlight a topic that is vital for the future of the textile industry: the role of recyclers in an increasingly circular economy. Under the new Focus Topic “Textile to Textile – the role of recyclers”, the fair aims to provide in-depth insights into one of the most pressing challenges of the industry.

The linear textile model is nearing its end. With increasing regulatory pressures such as Extended Producer Responsibility EPR and Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules PEFCR, circularity is shifting from aspiration to necessity. While mechanical recycling of PET bottles is well established, textile-to-textile T2T recycling remains at an earlier and more complex stage of development.

Recyclers are now playing a pivotal role in the transition to circular systems. However, many are still adapting to the scale and technical challenges involved. T2T recycling is not a standalone solution and it is part of a broader transformation that also requires reducing overproduction, encouraging reuse and repair, and rethinking design and consumption models.

The October 2025 edition of PERFORMANCE DAYS, taking place from October 29–30 in Munich, will spotlight a topic that is vital for the future of the textile industry: the role of recyclers in an increasingly circular economy. Under the new Focus Topic “Textile to Textile – the role of recyclers”, the fair aims to provide in-depth insights into one of the most pressing challenges of the industry.

The linear textile model is nearing its end. With increasing regulatory pressures such as Extended Producer Responsibility EPR and Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules PEFCR, circularity is shifting from aspiration to necessity. While mechanical recycling of PET bottles is well established, textile-to-textile T2T recycling remains at an earlier and more complex stage of development.

Recyclers are now playing a pivotal role in the transition to circular systems. However, many are still adapting to the scale and technical challenges involved. T2T recycling is not a standalone solution and it is part of a broader transformation that also requires reducing overproduction, encouraging reuse and repair, and rethinking design and consumption models.

The urgency is clear: the global textile industry generates 92 million tonnes of waste annually, yet less than 1% is recycled into new clothing (Ellen MacArthur Foundation). Unlike downcycling or waste-to-energy methods, T2T recycling retains material quality, enabling the production of new garments from existing ones. The ultimate goal is a closed-loop system that minimizes waste and reduces dependency on virgin resources.

In Europe, policy is accelerating this shift. The EU Waste Framework Directive mandates separate collection of textiles by 2025. In parallel, the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles promotes the reduction of virgin material use and enhances resource efficiency. These initiatives are driving investment in sorting technologies, digital product passports, and advanced recycling systems.

Regina Goller, Head of Material Strategy and Future Trends, explains:
“Circularity is the key topic of our time – and textile-to-textile recycling is a core pillar of the circular economy. The industry is working intensively on solutions, and much is already possible, even on a large scale. At the same time, new regulations are demanding concrete action. At PERFORMANCE DAYS, we see it as our mission to raise awareness – both for what is already possible and what lies ahead. We connect the right players and build the networks needed to truly close the loop.”

More information:
Performance Days circular economy textile waste textile recycling
Source:

Design & Development GmbH Textile Consult

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Lavi Aharon, Director of Reconomy’s Textile Programme and Business Development Director Photo: Reconomy
Lavi Aharon, Director of Reconomy’s Textile Programme and Business Development Director
14.07.2025

Reconomy: New strategy paper to support the transition to textile EPR

Reconomy, a leading international circular economy specialist, has published a new global strategy exploring the evolving global landscape of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, outlining how businesses can prepare for upcoming changes and detailing Reconomy’s strategic initiatives to support businesses across Europe and worldwide.

The textile industry is approaching a period of significant regulatory and operational transformation. Traditionally, one of the most resource-intensive sectors, textiles generate substantial waste and emissions throughout their lifecycle. 

New EPR legislation is driving a fundamental shift by making producers responsible for end-of-life management, including collection, reuse, recycling, and disposal. This structural change is intended to accelerate the transition towards circular business models and more sustainable production and consumption patterns.

Reconomy, a leading international circular economy specialist, has published a new global strategy exploring the evolving global landscape of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, outlining how businesses can prepare for upcoming changes and detailing Reconomy’s strategic initiatives to support businesses across Europe and worldwide.

The textile industry is approaching a period of significant regulatory and operational transformation. Traditionally, one of the most resource-intensive sectors, textiles generate substantial waste and emissions throughout their lifecycle. 

New EPR legislation is driving a fundamental shift by making producers responsible for end-of-life management, including collection, reuse, recycling, and disposal. This structural change is intended to accelerate the transition towards circular business models and more sustainable production and consumption patterns.

Reconomy views this regulatory shift not as a compliance burden, but as a critical opportunity for innovation and competitive differentiation. By supporting stakeholders in turning regulatory requirements into strategic advantages, Reconomy aims to help businesses build more resilient and circular operations while meeting increasing expectations from consumers, retailers, and policymakers.

The new strategy paper, Textile EPR Strategy 2030, sets out a comprehensive five-year roadmap, providing an overview of anticipated policy timelines and evolving requirements. It also addresses key themes including eco-modulation, Digital Product Passports, and the growing need for robust data and supply chain transparency.

The document outlines Reconomy’s mission and specific initiatives over the next five years that will enable clients to navigate the complex textile EPR landscape effectively.

In the short term, during the “pre-EPR” phase, this includes helping clients understand the regulatory impact, preparing them operationally, building strong partnerships across the textile ecosystem — including with sorters, recyclers, and other key stakeholders — and investing in technology to enable advanced data management and material returns. 

In the longer term, once EPR legislation is established across all EU member states and additional global markets, Reconomy will continue to support clients with multi-jurisdictional compliance (including in regions such as North America), help them leverage product-level data insights to drive innovation and better product design, and accelerate their transition to circular business models.

The strategy follows the launch of Reconomy's Textile EPR Impact Assessment service – a new tailored service designed to help businesses prepare for the rapidly evolving landscape of textile regulations.

Lavi Aharon, Director of Reconomy’s Textile Programme and Business Development Director, said:
“Textile producers are facing an increasingly complex and fast-evolving regulatory landscape as EPR schemes roll out across the world, and especially in Europe. At the same time, they are under growing pressure to demonstrate real progress on sustainability to retailers and consumers.”

More information:
Reconomy circular economy study Extended Producer Responsibility strategy paper
Source:

Reconomy

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14.07.2025

Girbau at Clean Show 2025

Girbau is driving more efficient and connected automation with the new version of its Genius system, the expanded-capacity Genius washers, and the intelligent Sortech sorter.

Girbau will once again take part in Clean Show, the leading industrial laundry event in North America, held from August 23 to 26 in Atlanta, Georgia (USA). This year, the company’s proposal focuses on connectivity, efficiency, and innovation in professional and self-service laundry. 

The company will host live demonstrations of its latest industrial and commercial laundry solutions, including new machine models, connected systems, and integrated platforms designed to optimise efficiency, performance, and user experience.

Girbau is driving more efficient and connected automation with the new version of its Genius system, the expanded-capacity Genius washers, and the intelligent Sortech sorter.

Girbau will once again take part in Clean Show, the leading industrial laundry event in North America, held from August 23 to 26 in Atlanta, Georgia (USA). This year, the company’s proposal focuses on connectivity, efficiency, and innovation in professional and self-service laundry. 

The company will host live demonstrations of its latest industrial and commercial laundry solutions, including new machine models, connected systems, and integrated platforms designed to optimise efficiency, performance, and user experience.

Among the main highlights this year are the new Genius XL washers, which expand the Genius range with high-capacity models — available in 40, 57, and 110 kg versions. The entire range now features Genius 3.0, an upgrade that enhances connectivity and introduces new functionalities such as remote updates, customised programme and screen management,and daily reports without the need for additional systems, making it easier to optimise consumption and maintain operational control.

The company will also showcase industrial equipment such as the CompactPro folder and ironer, the DRE automatic feeder, and notably, the Sortech sorting system – an advanced solution that automates the sorting and classification of soiled laundry using UHF RFID technology. This system improves efficiency and safety while reducing training and maintenance time, making it ideal for high-volume laundries.

During Clean Show, attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with Girbau staff, customers, and distributors, and engage in dynamic interactions at the booth, where new products will be presented alongside sessions on commercial sales, the Sortech system, the Genius range, and the Tunnel Batch System, providing a comprehensive overview of the company’s latest innovations. There will also be attractive financing options, special promotions, and a lively live programme.

More information:
Clean Show laundry laundry machinery Textile service Textile Services Industry Girbau
Source:

Girbau 

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Final meeting in Terrassa – group photo with partners: All goals of the AddTex project have been achieved! Photo (c) IVGT/AddTex
04.07.2025

Europe's textile industry is becoming more digital and sustainable

From 25 to 26 June 2025, the final meeting of the ERASMUS+ project AddTex took place in Terrassa, Spain, which aimed to train workers, pupils and students in the textile industry. Over a period of three years, eleven partners from Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic and the IVGT association for Germany were involved in the project.

With hackathons, virtual internships and 45 freely accessible MOOCs, AddTex set new standards in training and further education in the textile industry. The online platform www.addtex.eu provides professionals with the latest insights into green, digital and smart textiles – in a practical and free format. 

AddTex.eu online platform
All the project goals were achieved. The partners developed innovative formats such as summer schools, back-to-school programmes, coaching services and masterclasses. The 45 massive open online courses (MOOCs) on the AddTex.eu platform offer explanatory videos and learning materials as downloadable PDFs, each tailored to the three main target groups: technicians, engineers and managers.

From 25 to 26 June 2025, the final meeting of the ERASMUS+ project AddTex took place in Terrassa, Spain, which aimed to train workers, pupils and students in the textile industry. Over a period of three years, eleven partners from Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic and the IVGT association for Germany were involved in the project.

With hackathons, virtual internships and 45 freely accessible MOOCs, AddTex set new standards in training and further education in the textile industry. The online platform www.addtex.eu provides professionals with the latest insights into green, digital and smart textiles – in a practical and free format. 

AddTex.eu online platform
All the project goals were achieved. The partners developed innovative formats such as summer schools, back-to-school programmes, coaching services and masterclasses. The 45 massive open online courses (MOOCs) on the AddTex.eu platform offer explanatory videos and learning materials as downloadable PDFs, each tailored to the three main target groups: technicians, engineers and managers.

A highlight of the closing event on 26 June 2025, which was jointly organised by AddTex and the EU project xBUILD-EU under the motto ‘Textile Talent & Innovation: Driving Tomorrow's Industry’, was the interactive session ‘New Generations in the Labour Market’, including the speed dating event ‘Talent meets Industry’. The event brought together companies, students and experts for an intensive exchange and networking day in Terrassa.

The AddTex.eu platform will be continuously developed over the next five years by the IVGT Technical Textiles Department together with the project partners in order to provide up-to-date content and act as a point of contact for industry and universities. In addition to instructions for creating your own MOOCs, hackathons and webinars, new soft skills and formats such as back-to-school programmes and solution-oriented consulting have been developed and implemented by project hubs.

A collaboration with the Chair of Textile Technology at Chemnitz University of Technology and the Texoversum Experts & Training Hub in Reutlingen is currently planned to supplement the project results. In addition to the three EU priority areas of ‘Green – Digital – Smart’, the focus is also on textile recycling and digitisation and AI topics in order to provide IVGT members with targeted information, training materials and network contacts.

The IVGT was most recently responsible for work package 5, ‘Qualification of the textile industry through ADDTEX hubs for green-digital-smart,’ as well as for the creation of an application manual and a business plan to ensure that the project content is updated for at least five years after the end of the project.

More information:
IVGT addtex.eu ADDTEX Training
Source:

IVGT/AddTex

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Sortieranlage Photo Rhenus SE & Co. KG
03.07.2025

Digital Logistics Expertise supports Circular Economy

REMONDIS and H&M Group formed a joint venture, Looper Textile Co, an independent company that collects, sorts and enables reuse and recycling of textiles. Rhenus 4PL Solutions GmbH, a Rhenus Group company, is supporting the venture as REMONDIS' contractual partner by providing advanced logistics solutions – including the centralized coordination of transport flows, end-to-end supply chain visibility, and the implementation of a digital 4PL Control Tower tailored to the specific requirements of circular textile logistics.

Smart Solutions for Circular Textile Flows
Looper Textile Co. is an independent joint venture owned by H&M Group and REMONDIS. The company has set itself the goal of collecting and sorting used clothing and textiles for reuse and recycling in order to make the best possible use of these valuable resources. “The need for collection and sorting solutions has never been greater, and Looper is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change,” says Erik Lagerblad, CEO of Looper Textile Co.

REMONDIS and H&M Group formed a joint venture, Looper Textile Co, an independent company that collects, sorts and enables reuse and recycling of textiles. Rhenus 4PL Solutions GmbH, a Rhenus Group company, is supporting the venture as REMONDIS' contractual partner by providing advanced logistics solutions – including the centralized coordination of transport flows, end-to-end supply chain visibility, and the implementation of a digital 4PL Control Tower tailored to the specific requirements of circular textile logistics.

Smart Solutions for Circular Textile Flows
Looper Textile Co. is an independent joint venture owned by H&M Group and REMONDIS. The company has set itself the goal of collecting and sorting used clothing and textiles for reuse and recycling in order to make the best possible use of these valuable resources. “The need for collection and sorting solutions has never been greater, and Looper is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change,” says Erik Lagerblad, CEO of Looper Textile Co.

“Used textiles are one of the largest material flows in the world. We rely on digital solutions and our expertise in the circular economy to efficiently coordinate the movement of collected volumes of 150 million pieces per year. Together, we want to take the sustainable use of textiles into the future,” commented Simon Bodmer, Head of Logistics Department at REMONDIS Recycling GmbH & Co. KG.

Enabling circular flows: Over 70 million garments sorted in 2024
Looper Textile Co. enables circular textiles through reuse and preparing for recycling. Operating out of two sorting facilities in Germany and one in Poland, while working with a global network of partners, Looper sorts into over 200 categories based on material and garment type. In 2023, the first year of operations, Looper helped extend the life of over 40 million garments, and over 72 million garments in 2024, 65% reuse, 25% recycling, and <10% responsibly disposed due to contamination. A commitment to innovation within Looper includes a pilot line for automated sorting using near-infrared and optical sensor technology, meeting the precise material requirements of emerging textile-to-textile recycling solutions.

Rhenus 4PL Control Tower for transparency in Looper’s supply chain
As part of the project, Rhenus 4PL Solutions GmbH is deploying its 4PL Control Tower – a central digital platform that enables real-time coordination and monitoring of all logistics activities across the supply chain. As a Fourth Party Logistics (4PL) provider, Rhenus assumes overarching responsibility for managing logistics partners and processes. The system has been specifically tailored to support the requirements of the circular economy, ensuring full transparency, optimized material flows, and efficient, data-driven supply chain operations. In a circular project like Looper Textile Co., the Control Tower plays a key role in enabling textile reuse and recycling by seamlessly coordinating all stakeholders and creating end-to-end visibility.

“Our 4PL Control Tower provides a central platform for the coordinated and integrated management of all logistics activities and increases visibility along the entire value chain. This is crucial to achieving Looper Textile Co.'s goals,” explains Chris Gerfertz, Managing Global Director at Rhenus 4PL Solutions.

More information:
H&M Group REMONDIS textile recycling
Source:

Rhenus SE & Co. KG

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02.07.2025

Digital Product Passport: Identiv partners with Narravero

Identiv, Inc. a global leader in RFID- and BLE-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Narravero GmbH., a global Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform for Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and supply chain transparency. This collaboration expects to accelerate the commercialization of integrated solutions for EU-compliant DPP deployments. By combining Identiv's NFC inlays for dynamic product data with Narravero's robust data management platform, this partnership offers a comprehensive, integrated solution that streamlines DPP deployment for companies.

Identiv, Inc. a global leader in RFID- and BLE-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Narravero GmbH., a global Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform for Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and supply chain transparency. This collaboration expects to accelerate the commercialization of integrated solutions for EU-compliant DPP deployments. By combining Identiv's NFC inlays for dynamic product data with Narravero's robust data management platform, this partnership offers a comprehensive, integrated solution that streamlines DPP deployment for companies.

Driving DPP Innovation Ahead of EU Regulations
Both Identiv and Narravero are pioneers in connecting physical products with the digital world. Narravero’s core offering allows businesses to create and manage DPPs that provide comprehensive product lifecycle information, including origin, sustainability data, and end-of-life instructions. Beginning in 2027, these DPPs will be required under new European Union sustainability rules. DPPs also present a significant opportunity for enhanced supply chain efficiency and customer engagement. Narravero's platform has already seen substantial growth, reaching 135 million visits as of February 2025.

"We are thrilled about our agreement with Narravero and working collaboratively on the DPP solutions we're bringing to market," said Kirsten Newquist, CEO at Identiv. "This partnership will help companies comply with EU regulations and empower them with new opportunities for sustainability, transparency, and consumer engagement." 

Thomas Rödding, CEO of Narravero, said, "Our partnership with Identiv is a significant step forward in making DPPs accessible and actionable for businesses globally. Identiv's expertise in secure, connected physical identities complements our robust DPP platform, creating a powerful, end-to-end solution.”

This partnership positions Identiv and Narravero at the forefront of DPP innovation, providing a full-circle integrated solution to meet EU regulatory demands and empower businesses with enhanced supply chain transparency, sustainability, and customer engagement.

More information:
Identiv Narravero Digital Product Passports
Source:

Identiv

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