BioFibreLoop: Advancing Circular And Sustainable Textiles In Europe
The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are leading the BioFibreLoop research project, funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. The project, launched with a kick-off event in Denkendorf on June 26 and 27, 2024, aims to develop recyclable outdoor and work clothing using renewable bio-based materials.
The textile industry faces dual challenges: the need for more sustainable, environmentally friendly production methods, and increasing consumer demand for smart functions in clothing.
Moreover, the production of functional textiles often involves chemicals harmful to the environment and health, complicating recycling efforts. Intelligent innovations must replace harmful chemicals, conserve water and utilize durable, recyclable bio-based materials to reduce the substantial carbon footprint of textile products. Digitalized processes aim to enhance efficiency and close the production cycle.
For instance, the BioFibreLoop project employs laser technology to mimic natural structures, creating garments with water and oil-repellent, self-cleaning and antibacterial properties. The project aims to deliver affordable, high-performance and durable fibres and textiles made from renewable sources like lignin, cellulose and polylactic acid. All processes are designed to promote a circular economy, focusing on comprehensive recycling and minimizing waste, inspired by nature.
These efforts are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2035. Technological advancements in functionalizing and recycling bio-based materials are being developed through industrial demonstration projects in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany. The project aims to establish a patented, circular, sustainable process for producing recyclable functional textiles.
The BioFibreLoop project, with a duration of 42 months and a budget nearing 7 million euros (1.5 million euros allocated to DITF as coordinator), involves a consortium of 13 partners from nine countries. These partners bring together expertise and resources from science and industry:
- German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF), Germany (Coordinator)
- Next Technology Tecnotessile Società nazionale di ricerca R. L., Italy
- Centre Technologique ALPhANOV, France
- G. Knopf’s Sohn GmbH & Co. KG, Germany
- FreyZein Urban Outdoor GmbH, Austria
- BEES – BE Engineers for Society, Italy
- BAT Graphics Vernitech, France
- Interuniversitair Micro-Electronica Centrum, BelgiumA
- Idener Research & Development Agrupacion de Interes Economico, Spain
- Teknologian tutkimuskeskus VTT Oy, Finland
- Det Nationale Forskningscenter for Arbejdsmiljø, Denmark
- Steinbeis Innovation gGmbH, Germany
- NIL Textile SRO, Czech Republic
