From the Sector

On 3 and 4 December 2025, the 17th colloquium on recycling for textiles will take place at the Hotel Chemnitzer Hof. The event brings together experts from industry, science and research to present and discuss current developments, technologies and business models for a sustainable circular economy in the textile industry.  
 
Closing cycles  
The thematic focus is on technologies for textile recycling, circular and sustainable textile products, and the implementation of circular economy principles. Other topics include the collection, sorting and management of textile waste, as well as successful cooperation models for a circular textile industry. A concluding pitch session offers start-ups and universities the opportunity to present innovative ideas and solutions as forward-looking alternatives to conventional processes.  
 
Trade exhibition celebrates its premiere 
For the first time, the colloquium will be accompanied by a trade exhibition. Companies, research institutions and service providers will present their products, services and latest research and development results. The trade exhibition offers participants numerous opportunities for direct exchange and the initiation of new collaborations – supported by networking opportunities during conference breaks, at the business lunch and the evening event. 
 
‘The colloquium has established itself as an important platform for professional exchange in the textile industry. With the new trade exhibition, we are expanding the concept to include a valuable component for direct knowledge transfer and the presentation of innovative solutions,’ explains Johannes Leis, STFI expert for textile recycling and circular economy. 

A companion during studies and for practical use in the workplace: generations of textile experts have used the Denkendorf Fiber Chart to keep track of all the important characteristic values of textile raw materials. Following the first two editions in the 1970s and 1980s, scientists in Denkendorf have comprehensively revised the Fiber Chart. The third edition is now available in digital form for the first time.

The overview shows all important natural and synthetic fibers in SEM, microscope, and fiber array images, as well as a force-elongation diagram for each. It describes their chemical properties with key characteristic values such as specific strength, elongation, or hysteresis. Relevant brand names complete the overview and enable reliable guidance in the selection of materials for various products.

The Denkendorf Fiber Chart has a long tradition and has been a household name in the textile world for decades. With their many years of testing experience, participation in standardization committees, and numerous industry contacts, the scientists in Denkendorf worked closely with manufacturers and users to compile a comprehensive chart more than 50 years ago. The third edition of the Denkendorf Fiber Table is available as a poster and in digital form. The online platform offers a search function for fiber properties, allowing individual fibers and their properties to be compared. Data sheets and high-resolution images complete the offer.

In July, the DITF web shop was launched, enabling the textile research center to transfer knowledge. In addition to the fiber table, publications on research results and tickets for specialist events can be purchased.