#Research & Development

2021-05-06

A new size survey project – “SizeWorld China”

China is one of the largest growth markets in the world, but with 1.4 billion inhabitants the diversity of its population is huge. China is made up of 56 ethnic groups, so, if your products need to “fit” your consumer – if you are in fashion or vehicle design, or if you produce uniforms or physical training equipment - you are going to need information about the height, weight and size of China’s population.

Avalution uses SizeWorld CHINA to conduct a representative size survey and use the results to create a database of body dimensions and shapes and will answer important socio-demographic questions. Interested companies can obtain this know-how up front.

The SizeWorld China project is designed like the well-known size surveys Size GERMANY, Size ITALY and Size NorthAmerica: Differentiated by age, gender and region, thousands of people will be measured in specific postures using 3D body scanners. The Chinese partner company Leatech will be responsible for carrying out the survey. Avalution is at the disposal of the long-term contractual partner with its expertise in the conception of such a size survey and is responsible for the evaluation and processing of the measured body measurements.

Companies interested in body dimension data and socio-demographic information in the Chinese market can now participate in this size survey, influencing the design of the study as a result. “We are enabling participating companies that need specific body dimensions or are interested in specific questions in the socio-demographic questionnaire to get involved in the conception of the survey,” says Avalution General Manager Michael Stöhr.

The launch of the survey is planned for mid-2021. The data will then be available within 2 years.

Pellet press enables thermomechanical textile recycling on a pilot scale at ITA

Since the end of 2025, the technical centre of the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University has been equipped with a pellet press from the manufacturer Amandus Kahl GmbH & Co. KG, Reinbek, Germany. This press can efficiently compact shredded synthetic textiles at a throughput of up to 25 kg/h and process them into pellets with a diameter of 4 mm.

Fabolose: Fabricating vegan and circular leather alternatives from bio-tech-derived cellulose

Fabulose is an EU funded project coordinated by the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF). Its consortium consists of leading research institutes, biotech innovators, and industry stakeholders who aim to create high-performance, biobased and recyclable leather-like fabrics, using efficient biotech production routes for bacterial cellulose, cyanophycin and bacterial pigments

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Textile products made from synthetic fibres, finished fabrics or dyed materials release fibre fragments into the environment at every stage of their life cycle. With the new DIN SPEC 19296, Hohenstein has developed a standardised testing method to analyse how these fragments behave in soil under natural conditions. Until now, little was known about their environmental behaviour or potential ecological effects once released.

JEC World 2026 returns with an unprecedented content program

Recognized worldwide as the leading trade exhibition for composite materials and their applications, JEC World returns on March 10-12, 2026, at Paris Nord Villepinte as the most ambitious edition to date, in line with its motto “Pushing the limits”. As the must-attend event for the composites industry, JEC World will offer an unprecedented program, blending conferences, markets insights, technical sessions, awards, and above all, a unique experience and invaluable connections.

Beyond the wardrobe – innovative cotton takes the spotlight

Cotton can do more – a lot more. Cutting-edge textiles and high-tech products made from 100% cotton prove just how powerfully performance and sustainability can come together. That very surge of innovation is front and centre at the 38th Bremen Cotton Conference, taking place March 25–27, 2026, at Bremen’s Parliament on the historic market square – culminating in a bold and dedicated closing session on Friday. In the spotlight: performance upgrades for pure cotton, smart strategies for circular textile waste solutions, and pioneering concepts for demanding technical applications. From natural fibre–reinforced composites to highly effective flame-retardant solutions, cotton steps out of the closet and shows the future potential woven into every fibre.

Keeping print inclusive: Empowering women in the print industry

Across all industries, cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace is increasingly recognised as valuable and essential to long-term success. However, despite the print industry’s significant advancements in technology and innovation, visible representation of women remains limited. As the sector grapples with low recruitment, it’s important to challenge outdated perceptions. Creating real change, however, requires collective effort - no single company can do it alone.