#Research & Development

2022-05-05

Oil-water separation with bio-inspired textiles

BOA textile oil absorption © L. Beek & I. da Matta, 2021, RWTH Aachen University

Superhydrophobic biological surfaces are able to adsorb oil from water and separate it at the same time. In the BOA - Bionic Oil Adsorber project, this phenomenon was analysed in detail, abstracted and now successfully transferred to textile technology. Technical textiles are now available with which oils of different viscosities and compositions can be separated from water according to the biological role model.

The advantage of this method is that the oil is transported through the textile and can be collected with a floating container. Following this, it is possible to dispose of the oil properly. According to current findings, the textiles are reusable and suitable for permanent use.

The consortium consisting of the Nees Institute for Plant Biodiversity at the University of Bonn, the company Heimbach GmbH and the ITA Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University would like to thank the Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt DBU for funding the project 34602/01-03 and all companies for the friendly support. If you are interested in the oil-adsorbing textiles, please contact Leonie Beek.

Aachen Summer School: Textiles become smart through 3D printing and origami

From 21 to 29 September 2026, the Aachen Summer School will transform Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University into a laboratory of the future: over the course of a week, students will use origami folding techniques and 3D printing to develop active textile structures capable of performing programmable movements. This interdisciplinary event combines theoretical foundations with practical prototyping – from digital modelling right through to functional textile prototypes.

ITA has developed a washable digital smart jacket with real-time feedback and an AI-powered app for rehabilitation

As part of the PhysioTaix research project, the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University is developing a digital smart jacket with integrated sensors. The jacket is washable and reusable; it tracks movements during rehabilitation exercises in real time and transmits the data to an app.

DITF develops bio-based binding fibers for wood-fiber insulation materials

As part of the CelluWoodFlex project, the German Institutes of Textile- and Fiber-Research in Denkendorf (DITF) are developing bio-based cellulose ester fibers as alternative binding fibers for flexible wood fiber insulation materials. In addition to the spinning process and the production of suitable staple fibers, the institute is also investigating how wood and cellulose fibers can be separated and recycled at the end of their useful life.

POLYMERS-5B develops high-performance bio-based polyesters from agricultural waste

The European research project POLYMERS-5B is developing an integrated enzymatic biorefinery to convert agricultural by-products from Mediterranean food production into valuable raw materials for the food, cosmetics and bio-based plastics industries. Using tomato and olive pomace as feedstock, the process aims to recover several product groups from the same biomass stream. The consortium will present its latest technical developments and market findings at Ecomondo 2026 in Rimini on 3 November.

STFI showcases new Textile LAB Professional with focus on climate protection and sustainable technologies

The Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e. V. (STFI) in Chemnitz is organising a themed day on 3 December 2026, focusing on climate protection and the environment. As well as showcasing current applications for green cities and natural fibres for lightweight construction, the event will feature machine demonstrations in the new Textile LAB Professional. Under the motto ‘Design meets Technology’, this networking event will also provide an insight into artistic student projects, thereby facilitating a professional exchange on creative perspectives and modern technologies for climate protection and the environment.

25 years of medical devices: ITVP combines experience with innovation

ITV Denkendorf Produktservice GmbH (ITVP) is celebrating its 25th anniversary. On October 1, 2001, ITVP was founded as a subsidiary of the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF), Europe’s largest textile research center. This spin-off company made it possible to consolidate expertise in medical technology and significantly expand production, which had previously been initiated mostly in the DITF’s cleanrooms.

Trützschler brings intelligent fiber processing and automation to India ITME 2026

From December 4 to 9, 2026, the Trützschler Group will present its latest innovations in spinning, card clothing and nonwovens at India ITME in Greater Noida, India. At Hall 11, Booth B15, visitors can discover solutions designed to increase productivity, reduce operating costs and ensure consistently high product quality. Key highlights include the intelligent card TC 26i, the 12-head comber TCO 21XL, innovative card clothing solutions for improved fiber utilization and quality, as well as advanced nonwovens technologies for hygiene, wipes and technical applications.

Circulose resumes recycling of discarded cotton textiles and appoints interim CEO

Circulose today announced its restart of commercial-scale production plant at Ortviken in Sundsvall, Sweden, marking a significant step in scaling next-generation materials for the global fashion industry. The Ortviken plant is the world’s first commercial-scale chemical textile recycling facility. Its restart demonstrates that the fashion industry is seeking ways to scale proven solutions that move beyond pilots and into commercial production.

Itema brings textile versatility to ITMA ASIA + CITME 2026

Itema announces its participation in ITMA ASIA + CITME 2026, taking place November 20–24 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. In Hall 3 – Stand D06, the company will showcase two Galileo-RX rapier weaving machines weaving heavy denim and conveyor belt fabrics, demonstrating its ability to address different textile requirements with application-specific configurations. Five additional Itema machines at partner booths will extend the exhibition lineup to upper shoe fabric, label, Jacquard leno fabrics, and shirting, offering visitors a broader view of Itema rapier and air-jet weaving technologies.