From the Sector

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has published the full conference program for the World of Wipes® (WOW) International Conference, taking place July 21–24, 2025, at the Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio.

This year’s theme, “Wipe to Win: Innovating for a Sustainable and Profitable Future,” brings together industry leaders to address pressing challenges and opportunities across the wipes value chain. Program topics will include U.S. manufacturing threats, tariff and regulatory impacts, fiber sustainability, consumer perceptions, fragrance trends, slitting advancements, plastic-free wipe innovations, sports hygiene, and flushability.

Conference Sessions Include:

• Panel Discussion: Navigating the Headwinds: U.S. Manufacturing Threats & Challenges in 2025
• From Forest to Flush: Sustainability and Responsibility in Fiber and Wipes
• Trends, Tushes & TikToks: The Rise of the Modern Wipe
• Sniff, Save, Slice: Rethinking Wipes from Fragrance to Finish
• No Plastic, No Problem: The Next Generation of Eco-Wise Wipes
• Swipe Right: The New Faces of Specialty Wipes
• Panel Discussion: The Great Regulatory and Tariff Pow-WOW

Conference Highlights Include:

• WIPES Academy – July 21-22
  Led by Heidi Beatty, CEO of Crown Abbey, this 12-session course offers comprehensive training from concept to commercialization, including selection of fabrics, formulation design, and packaging considerations.
• Tabletop Exhibits & Lightning Talks – July 22-23
  Explore the latest innovations from leading companies. Exhibitors will deliver five-minute product spotlights, followed by networking at the evening receptions.
• Lunch Arounds – July 22-23
  Engage with peers, entrepreneurs, and industry thought leaders in small-group lunch discussions designed to foster collaboration and connections.
• Pre-Conference Webinars
  More details will be released soon.
• World of Wipes Innovation Award® – July 22 and 24
  Recognizing breakthrough innovations that utilize nonwoven technologies to enhance functionality and broaden application. Finalists will present on July 22; the winner will be announced on July 24.

The 93rd Textile Institute World Conference (TIWC 2025) will take place at the Porto Palácio Hotel and Spa in Porto, Portugal, from October 7-10 2025.

Fibre to Future – Transforming Fashion and Textiles through Sustainability, is the theme of this event which will explore how sustainability and digitalisation are reshaping the industry – from fibre production and manufacturing to consumer use and end-of-life solutions.

The fast-emerging new approaches to addressing sustainability challenges and the digital technologies that are now enhancing efficiency and transparency will be explored over the four-day programme, with insights from leading academics, industry experts and policymakers. Actionable strategies for reducing environmental impact, minimising waste, and embracing zero-carbon solutions in line with global sustainability goals will be highlighted.

“A key aim of the TWIC is to foster collaboration between industry and academia, creating a shared vision for a sustainable and digital future in textiles,” says Textile Institute CEO Stephanie Dick. “This year’s conference is hosted by AQUITEX, an established Portuguese specialist in the development of chemicals and auxiliaries for the textile industry – the first time a company has hosted the event. Join us in shaping the next chapter of the textile industry and be a part of the global conversation on sustainability and innovation.”

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, proudly announces Carl Cucuzza and Lynda Kelly as the recipients of the 2025 INDA Lifetime Service Awards. Carl and Lynda are being recognized for their key contributions to the advancement of the nonwovens industry and INDA.

“I am thrilled to recognize Carl and Lynda for their exceptional dedication and impactful contributions,” said Matt O’Sickey, PhD, Director of Education & Technical Affairs at INDA. “Their unwavering commitment and tireless advocacy play vital roles in shaping the future of the nonwovens industry. I am looking forward to seeing and giving them their Awards at Hygienix and IDEA®25.”

• Carl Cucuzza will receive his award during the Hygienix™ Conference on November 18th at 4:30 pm.
• Lynda Kelly will receive her award during IDEA®25 on April 29th at 4:45 pm.

Here are the Award recipients:

Carl Cucuzza: INDA Lifetime Service Award
“I am deeply honored and thankful to receive this Lifetime Service Award from INDA. It has been a blessing to collaborate with a close-knit community of dedicated professionals who continually innovate in ways that improve lives while protecting the environment. I’m grateful for the recognition and continue to be excited to see steady growth through the entrepreneurial spirit that is a hallmark of this industry.”

Carl Cucuzza, prior to retirement, was President and Managing Partner of Teknoweb North America, a key supplier of converting equipment for wet and dry wipes, facemasks, and similar disposable products. He also partnered with his son in establishing the Hot Melt Supply Company, which provides service and support for adhesive applications in the disposables, product assembly, and packaging industries.

Prior to that, Carl was General Manager of Newco Enterprises, Inc. and Global Sales and Marketing Manager for the Nonwovens Systems Group of Nordson Corporation. In that role, Carl directly managed the North American and European sales efforts to disposables producers and personally coordinated hot melt systems sales and support activities for a major producer’s global baby diaper production expansion through the 1990s.

Carl is a past board member of INDA, Organizing Committee member, Moderator and Presenter for over 35 years at Vision, WOW, Hygienix, and various other domestic and international conferences. He has been recognized by the state of Georgia with the Award for Product Development and Management Excellence and has received seven patents for machinery and processes for the production of disposable products. He has also published numerous technical papers and articles, consulted on disposables projects, and acted as an expert witness.

Born and raised in Bradford, PA, and living in Monroe, GA, he and his wife Toni have been married for 47 years and have four children and four grandchildren,

Lynda Kelly: INDA Lifetime Service Award
“I am truly humbled and honored to receive the INDA Lifetime Service Award. Growing up in this amazing industry has been a remarkable journey, working alongside so many incredible colleagues across the globe to develop and sell unique nonwoven product solutions and technologies. As an industry, we have achieved so much over the decades, and I am proud to have been part of its evolution. It has truly been an incredible experience!

Lynda Kelly served as Senior Vice President, Americas & Business Development for Suominen Corporation until her retirement in 2023, due to health challenges. She dedicated nearly a decade to Suominen, where she led the Care team then transitioned to lead Americas sales team alongside global product and business development professionals. Under her leadership, the company successfully advanced its sales, market presence, and innovative products to achieve optimal profitability.

Lynda began her career at Kendall, which later merged into International Paper/Veratec and eventually became BBA Nonwovens. Throughout her tenure, she managed sales and marketing across various sectors, advancing into leadership roles. Early in her career, she embraced an expatriate assignment in Toronto, Canada, which provided her with early exposure to the rapidly growing spunmelt market.

In addition to her time at Suominen, Lynda brought deep expertise to the nonwovens industry through 11 years at First Quality Nonwovens, where she helped expand their spunmelt nonwovens offerings in the medical market. She also gained valuable insights into consulting during her two years with John Starr.

A devoted contributor to the nonwovens industry, Lynda remains a long-term supporter of INDA initiatives. She played a significant role as a key member of INDA’s AAMI medical disposable standards committee, helping to shape critical industry-wide guidelines. From 2019 to 2022, she served on the INDA Board of Directors, navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic and advocating for collaboration across the sector. While at Suominen, she championed wellness-focused events like the “Run or Walk with Suominen,” blending industry engagement with health, fun, and community.

Lynda’s passion for the nonwovens industry extended beyond her professional contributions. Known for her enthusiasm, she often turned personal encounters into learning opportunities. For example, she would often examine new nonwoven products in a hospital or doctor’s office to spark inspiration. This curiosity drove her to learn more, initiate meaningful conversations, and implement innovative changes within her own teams.

Above all, Lynda cherishes the relationships she developed throughout her career. From colleagues to friends, she believes the most rewarding part of her journey was the people who enriched it. For Lynda, the true heart of the nonwovens industry has always been the connections and partnerships that make it thrive.

FILTREX™ 2025, EDANA’s flagship event for the filtration industry, wrapped up last week after two dynamic days of discussions, technical advancements, and industry collaboration. This 10th edition brought together more than 100 professionals to explore the latest developments in air and liquid filtration, sustainability, and regulatory challenges.

Industry Insights and Key Conversations
The FILTREX 2025 conference brought together experts from across the filtration industry to discuss innovation, sustainability, and regulatory challenges shaping the sector. The event opened with a keynote by Dr.-Ing. Frank Möbius, Senior Innovation Advisor at UnternehmerTUM and former BMW Group Manager, highlighting the role of Open Innovation in maintaining competitiveness in an evolving market.

Throughout the sessions, industry leaders addressed major trends influencing filtration. Dr. Marc Schmidt (AAF-Lufttechnik) explored how economic and social shifts are reshaping filtration markets, while Anthony Lawson (Hengst Filtration) examined the impact of evolving air quality guidelines and PFAS restrictions on filter design. Experts such as Cédric Vallet (Ahlstrom) and Christof Keppler (Gessner) presented innovations in filtration efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, and the development of biodegradable filter media. Meanwhile, Dr. Pero Mićić (FutureManagementGroup AG) offered a strategic framework for future-proofing businesses against industry disruptions.

Spotlight on Sustainability in Filtration
Sustainability took centre stage at FILTREX 2025, with a dedicated round table that saw insights from Oswaldo Anaya (Freudenberg Performance Materials), Cédric Vallet (Ahlstrom), and Bruce Lorange (Hollingsworth & Vose). The discussions focused on how the industry can reduce its environmental impact while still delivering high-performance solutions. Oswaldo Anaya, Product Marketing Manager at Freudenberg Performance Materials, reflected on the event, saying, “I was glad to join this last edition of FILTREX. It confirmed the great things I’d heard from colleagues about previous events. Highly relevant and timely topics for the filtration industry, plus valuable networking in a relaxed setting.”

FILTREX™ Innovation Award 2025
A major highlight of the event was the FILTREX™ Innovation Award, which this year went to Johns Manville for its Evalith® product. Their groundbreaking recycling process transforms HVAC glass microfiber waste into compounded pellets for injection molding, turning waste into durable, second-life products. The award was presented during a Networking Evening Cocktail at Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum, providing an ideal atmosphere for further discussions and potential collaborations.

PFAS-Free Filtration and Industry Innovation
The closing session tackled the critical topic of PFAS-free filtration, revealing solutions like high-performance PFAS-free HEPA media and nanofiber membranes that not only enhance performance but also reduce environmental impact. Industry leaders also discussed upcoming changes in PFAS regulations and the continued push for safer alternatives in the filtration industry.

Looking Ahead
FILTREX™ 2025 firmly established itself as the key event for the filtration industry, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation. As Bruce Lorange, Global Marketing Communications Director at Hollingsworth & Vose, put it: “The recent FILTREX event in Vienna presented a unique opportunity to network, learn, see old friends, and make new ones in the filtration and nonwovens space. The quality of presentations was top-notch—informative and thought-provoking—and the venue provided the perfect backdrop for the thought leaders gathered to take our industry to the next level. A sincere thanks to the EDANA FILTREX team for arranging such an impactful event!”

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has announced the program for IDEA®25, a two-day Sustainability in Nonwovens Conference. IDEA25 will take place April 29-May 1, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Florida.

The IDEA25 conference will bring together industry professionals to share knowledge and strategies to advance sustainable practices, highlighting the need for ongoing innovation, regulatory compliance, and incorporating eco-friendly materials to foster a more sustainable future.

The conference will include engaging sessions on various pertinent topics such as regulatory trends, data and technology, innovative and sustainable materials, hemp and natural fibers, bioplastics, equipment and processes, and integrating sustainability throughout the lifecycle of products.

Highlights of the IDEA25 Sustainability Conference

April 29:

• Navigating the Shifting Winds of Sustainability Regulations: Gain U.S. and European Union perspectives on compliance and innovation in the face of evolving regulations
• “In God We Trust… All Others Bring Data”: Learn how to craft a believable and transparent sustainability story
• Innovative and Sustainable Materials: Discover how green product development starts with greener nonwovens
• Hemp Fibers in Nonwovens: Explore the potential of hemp and other natural fibers and their applications in sustainable products

April 30:

• Cradle to Grave Bioplastics: Understand the importance of ensuring sustainability in the use of bioplastics from the beginning to the end-of-life
• Design for Sustainability: Explore the impact of product and process design on overall product sustainability, during two sessions
• Cradle to Next Life: Challenge the “to the grave” mentality and explore strategies for product reincarnation

The conference is an integral part of IDEA, the premier event for the nonwoven and engineered fabric industry. Hundreds of companies from around the globe representing the entire global supply chain will showcase their latest innovations at the exhibition. 

INDA and the American Filtration and Separations Society (AFS) have collaborated to create a cutting-edge conference that combines their broad industry expertise, offering FiltXPO™ 2025 attendees unparalleled technical insights.

The program for the Advances in Filtration Technical Conference is now available on the FiltXPO website. FiltXPO, the International Filtration Conference and Exhibition, is set for April 29 - May 1 at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Florida.

This year’s technical conference will focus on the following key themes:

• Healthy Buildings: Investigating the significance of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and the benefits of real-time monitoring, promoting enhanced filtration for human health, smart buildings, and electret air filtration nonwoven materials.
• Data Centers: Examining filtration’s critical role in advancing energy management through shared technology trends, focusing on best practices in data centers.
• Innovations in Filtration: Showcasing cutting-edge solutions, technologies, and methodologies revolutionizing the filtration landscape. Highlights will include advancements in nonwoven technologies, respiratory protection filters, and the environmental impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) regulations.
• Sustainability and Circularity: Exploring breakthroughs in circular economy practices, efficiency, and the future. Sessions will cover the regulatory landscape and innovative solutions.
• MANN+HUMMEL’s Principal Expert Research Network and Public Funding Martin Lehmann and INDA’s Director of Education & Technical Affairs Matt O’Sickey will open the two-day conference on April 29 with the theme “The Future of Filtration: Advancing Technology, Performance, and Sustainability.”

FiltXPO will facilitate in-depth discussions on technical advancements in filtration, their broader implications for health and the environment, and regulations shaping the future of indoor air quality and filtration technologies.

The program will feature presentations and panel discussions led by industry leaders and institutions, including AAF International, Ahlstrom, American Truetzschler, Erlab USA, Hollingsworth & Vose Company, inBiot, Johnson Controls, North Carolina State University, Math2Market GmbH, Magnera, Matregenix, and Superior Felt and Filtration, along with experts from INDA and AFS.   

New this year, the Advances in Filtration Technical Conference will include poster presentations, providing a platform for subject matter experts to share their latest findings.

It is getting exciting again in Cologne on 12 and 13 March for the cellulose fibres industry. Six new products have been nominated for the popular innovation award.

Every year, the conference organisator nova-Institute together with award sponsor GIG Karasek honours companies that impress with their creativity, technological progress and ecological impact. The aim of the award is not only to recognise the winners’ innovative products, but also to set an example for the courage to innovate.

The nominees’ presentations, the voting and the winner ceremony will take place on 12 March at the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025. Participants of the conference can vote live for the three winners. More than 220 people are expected to attend.

The Nominees

Fibers365 (DE): Hemp365 – Agricultural Decorative and Carrier Material
The solution “hemp365” is characterised by the development of a cost-effective, plant-based decorative and carrier material through the chemical-free processing of a regional agricultural fibre and the use of resulting short fibres in a wet-laid process, allowing for a massive reduction in the amount of fossil based binders required for strength and functionality. The non fibre content is less than 7 % and is also made from biogenic and biodegradable material. Hemp365 is 100% natural and vegan. It has been designed for consumer (fashion) and industrial applications in cooperation with an automotive OEM.

Releaf Paper France (FR): Releaf Fiber – Eco-Friendly Paper from Urban Fallen Leaves
Releaf Paper France transforms urban fallen leaves into sustainable cellulose fibres, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood pulp. Using proprietary low-temperature extraction, high-quality fibres with excellent paper-forming properties are isolated. With a cellulose content of 32-48 % and properties similar to hardwood, RELEAF fibres are ideal for packaging materials like corrugated paper, boxes, and bags. This innovative process, which requires minimal water and non-aggressive solvents, aligns with circular economy principles, repurposing millions of tons of urban leaf waste annually and supporting global brands in achieving sustainable packaging solutions.

SA-Dynamics (DE): Cellulose Aerogel Textiles – Next-Generation Insulation Materials
Cellulose Aerogel Textiles are revolutionary insulation materials made from 100 % biodegradable cellulose aerogel fibres. These combine the flexibility and ease of processing of traditional fabrics with the superior thermal insulation properties of aerogels by utilising a novel aerogel fibre process. Lightweight, highly efficient, and compatible with conventional textile machinery, they provide a sustainable alternative to fossil-based and animal-derived insulation materials. Fully recyclable and free from microplastic emissions, Cellulose Aerogel Textiles set a new benchmark for circular economy solutions in the textile and construction industries. Initial functional demonstrators were developed through two projects, funded by Biotexfuture and RWTH Innovation, respectively.

Sci-Lume Labs (US): Bylon® – Renewable Circular Fibres from Agricultural Waste
Sci-Lume Labs makes Bylon®, a scalable, circular, biosynthetic fibre. Using highly efficient chemistries to valorise agricultural waste, Bylon® seamlessly integrates into every step of the global value chain – from raw material production through textile manufacturing. Bylon® is distinct from incumbent and next-gen materials because it is simultaneously bio-based; waste-derived; degradable; recyclable; downstream-compatible; and melt-spinnable. Bylon® also offers a unique performance profile by combining the mechanical properties and tunability of traditional synthetics with the moisture properties and circularity of natural fibres. By not requiring changes to the supply chain, Bylon® empowers the industry to reduce its environmental impact – without compromising on quality, performance, or cost.

TMG Automotive (PT): REFIBER – Sustainable Automotive Surface Material
Textile-based composite solutions are a growing trend in the automotive sector, especially for decorative and functional interior applications. Innovative plant-based leather demonstrates this trend, combining sustainability with advanced performance. Developed from a biopolymer matrix combined with cellulose waste, this material transforms waste into a premium, eco-friendly solution. Its textile backing and non-woven laminate backing are also made entirely from cellulose fibres, creating a fully integrated bio-based composite. Designed for car interiors and more, this lightweight, durable and aesthetically versatile material sets a new standard for sustainable design, while satisfying the industry’s growing demand for circular and renewable alternatives.

Uluu (AU): Replacing plastic in textiles with natural, seaweed-derived materials
Uluu is an Australian start-up set to replace plastics with natural polymers called PHAs. Uluu materials are made from a regenerative feedstock: farmed seaweed, thus ending reliance on fossil fuels and land crops. Uluu, in partnership with Deakin University, is developing textiles that perform like synthetic polyester but are truly biodegradable and biocompatible, thus eliminating persistent microplastic pollution in fashion. Importantly, Uluu materials are reusable, recyclable, and most importantly, compostable. They are naturally produced through a unique fermentation process that uses seaweed, saltwater microbes and seawater. Uluu pellets can be directly substituted for plastic (e.g., polyester, nylon) in existing melt spinning equipment, creating yarns that can be knitted or woven into textiles. In addition to fibre-grade pellets, Uluu is also producing other grades of pellets to replace plastics used in e.g., buttons, sunglasses, hair clips and packaging.

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has opened the registration for the IDEA®25 International Conference and Exhibition on April 29-May 1, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Florida.

For the first time at IDEA, the two-day conference will be dedicated exclusively to sustainability, recognizing its critical importance to the nonwovens industry. The conference will bring together C-suite leaders, business development professionals, sustainability managers, product developers, regulatory teams, sales, and marketing to advance “Nonwovens for a Healthier Planet.”

The regional market overviews and company presentations that have previously been part of the conference program will be moved to the exhibition portion of IDEA, which will spotlight product innovations and solutions from leading companies across the industry.

Among the topics industry experts will explore in presentations and panel discussions at IDEA25 are:

• Regulations: Upcoming regulations in the U.S., European Union (EU), and the United Nations impacting sustainability efforts
• Product and Process Innovations: Sourcing sustainable materials featuring natural fibers, advances in biodegradability and compostability, and fiber-to-nonwoven recycling and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives
• Circular Economy and Bio-Materials: Responsible sourcing, innovations in sustainability, and end-of-life solutions that reduce waste and lower energy consumption, leading to significant cost and resource savings

Details regarding the presenters and abstracts for the conference will be announced in the coming weeks.

IDEA25 Highlights
The IDEA® Achievement Awards, in partnership with Nonwovens Industry magazine, will be presented based on the results of online voting in six categories, including sustainability achievement.

The event will kick off on April 28th with training courses covering the essentials of nonwovens and market-focused areas, including a Nonwovens 101 short course on manufacturing nonwovens and advanced sessions on technical design and performance in baby and adult care absorbent systems, wet wipes, period products, and filter media training.

In conjunction with IDEA25, INDA also announced registration has opened for FiltXPO™ 2025, the International Filtration Conference and Exhibition, on April 29-May 1, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. For updates on both events, visit the INDA website.

The upcoming conference on 12-13 March 2025 in Cologne, Germany, will pave pathways to a sustainable textile industry.

Over the past few weeks, the Conference Advisory Board, and the experts from the nova-Institute, have thoroughly reviewed and evaluated over 40 submitted abstracts. The selected external experts bring new insights and perspectives from the pulp, fibre and further developing industries, promising to spark and deepen discussions at the event. Their expertise across the entire fibre value chain will enrich the topics covered and ensure a dynamic and insightful exchange of ideas. The presentations will provide a platform for the discussion at the conference after each session, and the Advisory Board members will foster a lively debate to drive innovation industry-wide.

Biosynthetics on the rise
Besides cellulose fibres, bio-based polymer fibres ("biosynthetics") are an excellent option to reduce fossil fibres in textiles. Biosynthetics offer a powerful alternative to traditional synthetic fibres, bringing both performance and technical properties that make them drop-in replacements. Derived wholly or partially from natural, renewable sources like lactic acids, sugar beet, sugarcane or wood, biosynthetics represent a bio-based option compared to fossil-based counterparts. In a special session “Biosynthetics - Replacing Traditional Synthetic Fibres”, experts will explore the latest advances, challenges and opportunities in the field. Discussing innovative approaches like biosynthetics is essential to drive sustainable transformation within the fashion and textile industries.

Fibre-to-Fibre Recycling: A Path to a Sustainable Textile Industry
The textile industry is at a crucial crossroad. The need for sustainable solutions to meet the EU's ambitious climate change targets is becoming increasingly urgent. Fibre-to-fibre recycling, which transforms discarded textiles into new, virgin fibres, holds great promise for reducing waste and resource consumption and helps to close the loop in textile production. While Europe has made progress in this area, challenges remain – in particular the management of mixed fibre textiles and the scaling up of recycling technologies. As new approaches are needed to tackle climate change, one session of the conference will focus on fibre-to-fibre recycling from textiles, exploring the latest innovations and technological advances, as well as the opportunities and barriers that need to be addressed to move the industry towards a circular, sustainable future.

Fibre Microplastic Formation versus Marine Biodegradability
The environmental impact of textiles extends far beyond landfill, with microplastics from synthetic fibres becoming a growing concern in marine ecosystems. A session at the conference will focus on the complex relationship between microplastic formation and marine biodegradability. While synthetic fibres shed microplastics during washing, these tiny particles, known as microfibres accumulate in the oceans and pose a serious threat to marine life. This session will explore the factors that influence fibre degradation in the marine environment and examine the potential of biodegradable fibres to reduce long-term pollution. Leading research institutes will discuss the challenges of balancing the prevention of microplastics with the development of fibres that can degrade naturally in marine ecosystems, and provide insights into innovative solutions that could help mitigate this pressing environmental issue.

Innovation Award “Cellulose Fibre Innovation of the Year 2025”
The nova-Institute, together with GIG Karasek, is looking for the best fibre innovations of the year. Applicants from the area of cellulose fibres as well as biosynthetics are welcome to submit their innovations. Technologie providers, research institutes or producers can apply until 30 November 2024. The innovation award “Cellulose Fibre Innovation of the Year 2025” is sponsored by GIG Karasek.

Apply for the “Cellulose Fibre Innovation of the Year 2025” award: cellulose-fibres.eu/award-application

Call for Posters
The poster exhibition is a highly anticipated scientific event at the conference, especially for early career scientists. Poster submission is open until 31 January 2025.

On November 20th/21st, 2024, the second conference on flame retardancy for composite applications took place in Berlin, organised by the AVK - Industrievereinigung Verstärkte Kunststoffe e.V. in cooperation with the FGK - Forschungsgesellschaft Kunststoffe e.V.

60 participants attended the international event, which this time focused on the requirements in the construction/infrastructure sector in addition to the transport sector.

In 14 presentations, 18 speakers provided information on new developments, requirements and innovations from the fields of standardisation, material development, construction/infrastructure, public transport, automotive and research & science.

Prof. Schartel from the Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und –prüfung began with an introduction to the principle and concept of flame-retardant composites. In the following thematic blocks, the companies CTS Composite Technologie Systeme GmbH and Nabaltec AG provided information on new possibilities and developments at the material level of non-combustible fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP).

The implementation of fire protection requirements in the operation of rail vehicles or for load-bearing FRP components played a major role in the area of construction/infrastructure, as did the sustainability of these building materials, which Frank Lüders from DB Systemtechnik GmbH and Kabelan Thavayogarajah from Fraunhofer LBF reported on in their presentations.

The well-known topic of e-mobility took its place in the automotive sector, where Dr. Christian Battenberg from Clariant Plastics &Coatings (Deutschland) GmbH spoke about flame retardants for applications in this field.

The successful event was rounded off by the Research and Science block with two presentations by Fraunhofer LBF and Deutsches Textilforschungszentrum Nord-
West gGmbH & Centre for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen.

Over the course of one and a half days, the conference provided an important platform for experts from industry and science to discuss the latest developments and challenges in the field of flame retardancy for composites. The high level of participation highlighted the relevance of the topic and underpinned the decision to organise a third round of the conference in 2026.