#Research & Development

2025-12-04

The region of renewable raw materials: Central German Alliance for Bioplastics

Polybutylene succinate (PBS) film tape © 2025 STFI

The development of sustainable plastic solutions is rapidly gaining importance in light of global environ- mental pollution, dwindling fossil resources and ambitious climate protection targets. As part of the re- gional alliance RUBIO, which brings together 18 partners from central Germany and the Berlin-Branden- burg area, the bio-based and biodegradable plastic polybutylene succinate (PBS) was comprehensively investigated, starting with the raw material, through the manufacturing process, to industrial application.

The aim was to evaluate the potential of PBS as an environmentally friendly alternative to polyethylene and to create the technological basis for new sustainable value chains. As a partner in the alliance, STFI was able to demonstrate that the bioplastic PBS is suitable for textile processing using the example of a net for straw bales.

The starting point: bioplastics sought as a substitute for PE

Increasing reports of macro and microplastics everywhere on earth, the finite nature of fossil re-sources, EU climate protection targets, and the call for CO₂ reduction compel all stakeholders, especially the plas- tics industry, to act promptly. Bio-based and simultaneously biodegradable plastics ap-pear to be valua- ble raw materials for many applications, ranging from the packaging industry to the textile sector and agriculture. The aim of this project was comprehensive investigation of polybutylene succinate (PBS) from raw material to its industrial applicability. In order to qualify the biopolymer as a substitute for polyethylene (PE), its material properties were tested and evaluated with regard to their suitability for a wide range of applications.

The textile processing of the bioplastic PBS

During project work, STFI main task was to explore opportunities and limits of technological pro-cessing of PBS materials (resins, film, nonwoven fabric, ribbons) into textile end products. Investiga-tions were carried out on processing behavior of resins to nonwoven fabrics, followed by cutting processes into narrow ribbons, as well as studies on cutting and stretching PBS films and resins into ribbons. Subse- quently, these ribbons were used to produce surfaces on knitting and weaving ma-chines. As a result, nonwoven fabrics, ribbons, and textile structures are available, which will be fur-ther optimized in subse- quent projects. It has been possible to develop a knitted straw bale net that meets the requirements regarding mechanical properties of DLG (German Agricultural Society) for novel bio-based plastics.

Processing of PBS nets on site © 2025 STFI

Success and outlook

The results include spunbonded fabrics, ribbons and textile structures. A knitted straw bale net has been successfully developed that meets the requirements of the DLG (German Agricultural Society) for inno- vative bio-based plastics in terms of mechanical properties.

The focus for the future is on optimising textile production processes for the bioplastic PBS. The RU- BIO2Value project was launched in December and will focus on applications such as injection-moulded reusable packaging, textiles and geotextiles, but also disposable packaging in upcoming studies by the consortium. At STFI, established textile processes are being converted to sustainable and renewable raw materials in order to use recycled or biodegradable materials for sustainable production.

STFI presents concepts for the textile circular economy and solutions for a healthy and safe life at Techtextil

Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. (STFI) has been supporting companies in developing marketable innovations for over 30 years. With a clear focus on sustainability, the environment, health and protection, the STFI offers future-oriented research, textile testing for tailor-made solutions and certification of per- sonal protective equipment. At Techtextil 2026, the institute will present ideas for the textile circular econ- omy and showcase solutions for healthy and safe living.

17th Colloquium on Recycling for Textiles with accompanying trade exhibition in Chemnitz

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.

Kendyr as a climate-friendly cotton alternative: STFI explores new value chains for salinised land in Central Asia

In large parts of Central Asia, decades of cotton irrigation have led to severe soil salinisation, with serious consequences for soil fertility and the future of cotton cultivation. An international research consortium, including the Saxon Textile Research Institute (STFI), has therefore investigated the potential of alternative fibre plants. The focus was on Apocynum spp. (kendyr), a bast fibre plant that can thrive on saline soils. The aim: to restore the agricultural use of former cotton fields and establish new textile value chains in the region.

Stylish design made from sustainable materials – two DITF research projects receive Techtextil Innovation Awards

Materials made from domestic, renewable raw materials reduce CO₂ emissions, prevent microplastics from entering the environment, and close the material cycle. The German Institutes for Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are developing nature-based alternatives to synthetically produced and predominantly petroleum-based materials. Two research projects have received a prestigious Techtextil Innovation Award. NUO Flexholz and the lignin-coated material FormLig demonstrate that sustainable concepts can meet high standards of functionality and design. Both projects were carried out in close collaboration with industry.

Hohenstein publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

The testing and research service provider Hohenstein has published its latest sustainability report, outlining key progress and strategic initiatives. The report focuses on ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, the company’s new mission statement and the systematic expansion of sustainable services for customers worldwide.

ITM presents cutting-edge textile research at Techtextil

From April 21 to 24, 2026, the Chair of Textile Machinery and High Performance Material Technology (ITM) at TUD Dresden University of Technology will be presenting its current research at Techtextil, the leading international trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens. In Hall 12.0, Stand D41, the team will be demonstrating how it combines high-performance fibers, AI-supported digital development tools and innovative machine technologies to develop textile solutions for lightweight construction, construction, medical technology and sustainable production from atom to product.

Techtextil 2026 recognition for the UK’s FET

Fibre Extrusion Technology (FET) will receive the Techtextil 2026 New Production Technology Innovation Award at next week’s Techtextil in Frankfurt (April 21-24). The Leeds-based member of the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) has developed the FET-500, a new toxic solvent-free gel small scale system for the production of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).

Lower CO2, stronger bonds: Indorama Ventures enables customers’ performance at Techtextil

At Techtextil 2026 in Frankfurt am Main, Indorama Ventures presents its latest material innovations aimed at supporting customers in achieving both performance and sustainability targets. The company highlights solutions based on recycled and bio-based raw materials as well as advanced binder fibers, addressing current market demands for lower CO₂ emissions, improved efficiency, and reliable supply.