The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) has announced its coordination of the BioFibreLoop project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program. The initiative aims to develop recyclable outdoor and work clothing from renewable bio-based materials. The project kicked off with an event in Denkendorf on June 26 and 27.

BioFibreLoop seeks to address two major challenges in the textile industry: the need for more sustainable, environmentally friendly production methods and the increasing demand for smart functionalities in clothing. Traditional functional textiles often rely on harmful chemicals, complicating recycling efforts.

The project employs laser technology to mimic natural structures, creating garments with water and oil-repellent, self-cleaning, and antibacterial properties. These textiles, made from renewable sources like lignin, cellulose, and polylactic acid, will be affordable, high-performance, and environmentally friendly, contributing to a circular economy with minimal waste.

The project will develop functionalization and recycling technologies for bio-based materials through three industrial demonstration projects in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Germany. The goal is to establish a patented, circular, and sustainable process for producing recyclable functional textiles, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2035.