[pageLogInLogOut]

#Research & Development

Bio-based polyesters for challenging long-term applications

Current bio-based plastics are often only suitable for short-lived applications, such as packaging, because they have inadequate long-term properties. The new project “Bio-based polyesters for challenging long-term applications” from the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF aims to improve the long-term properties of bioplastics through targeted additivation in order to enable their use in technical applications. To do this, the researchers are looking for companies along the value chain that would also like to substitute petro-based plastics with bio-based solutions in long-lasting products.


In the planned project, bio-based materials will be optimized through targeted additivation to be comparable to petrochemical plastics. In numerous projects in recent years, researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF have conducted research in the field of plastic additives and can improve the long-term properties of plastics made from both fossil and renewable raw materials. The aim of the project is to replace petrochemical-based technical plastics in a sustainable way based on the knowledge gained so far in material optimization and to implement this along the entire value chain.

Minimal changes in the manufacturing process

The project addresses the challenges of the long-term properties of bioplastics. In a comprehensive literature review, existing data on long-term stability and the stabilizers used are first compiled. Together with the project partners, a specification sheet will be created that defines the material properties to be achieved. Market-available bioplastics and additives will be identified and tested for their properties. The modification of the bioplastics will be carried out by developing new formulations on a pilot plant scale. The aim is to enable material substitution with minimal changes to existing processing methods.

The Fraunhofer scientists are looking for partners from companies along the value chain, starting with manufacturers of plastics and additives, and including companies that want to substitute individual components in their designs, with a particular focus on developers and producers of finished components.

© Graphic: Fraunhofer LBF

The use of novel additive systems should extend the life cycle of bio-based polyesters.

Securing competitive advantages together: sustainable, sophisticated plastic products

OEMs and manufacturers of plastic components in the construction, automotive, sports and leisure, electrical and electronics, and household appliance sectors who want to replace petrochemical-based plastics with bio-based solutions will gain sufficient knowledge to optimize their own research and development in a targeted and individualized way by participating in the new project “Bio-based polyesters for demanding long-term applications”. They will benefit directly from the latest findings, thereby securing competitive advantages. Raw material and additive manufacturers can expand their existing product portfolio with new applications, and compounders can prepare for future challenges in the use of bioplastics.



More News from Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF

#Research & Development

High-performance elastomers and plasma polymer coatings to replace fluoropolymers in technical applications: new Fraunhofer project

Users of poly- and perfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals", are under pressure due to regulatory proposals from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This also affects the use of fluoroelastomers, whose economic significance is enormous. Fraunhofer experts initiated the "HATE-Fluor" project at the beginning of February. Together, they want to develop high-performance elastomer compounds to replace fluoropolymers in certain technical applications.

More News on Research & Development

#Techtextil 2026

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.

#Research & Development

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.

#Techtextil 2026

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.

#Research & Development

Textile cascade filter for removing microplastics from wastewater

Microplastics are now found almost everywhere, even in remote regions of Antarctica. They enter the human body through the food chain. Studies indicate that microplastics may have negative effects on the human health.

Latest News

#Denim

TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 achieves global denim availability in six months; Vol. 2 debuts at Kingpins Amsterdam

When TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 debuted at last year’s Kingpins Amsterdam in October, 17 mill partners across five countries presented fabrics featuring the new fiber. Just six months on, participation has more than doubled, evolving into a global network that spans nine countries and four continents, signaling both strong industry momentum and growing demand.

#Digital Printing

Kornit Digital acquires PrintFactory to accelerate the industry’s transition to digital, on-demand production

Kornit Digital Ltd. (“Kornit Digital”, “Kornit” or the “Company”), a global pioneer in sustainable, on-demand, digital fashion and textile production, today announced its acquisition of PrintFactory, a global Netherlands-based technology leader of cloud-native workflow, color management and production automation software. The acquisition represents a strategic step in Kornit’s mission to accelerate the digital transformation of the global fashion and textile industry.

#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

Val:ue Milan unveiled – a curated boutique business hub for high-end apparel textiles

Messe Frankfurt continues to expand its international textile network with the announcement of Val:ue Milan. Moving beyond the traditional trade fair model, Val:ue Milan debuts as a prestigious, boutique-style business hub exclusively dedicated to elected fabrics and accessories for apparel. Taking place from February 3 to 5, 2027, at The Mall in Porta Nuova, the event breaks away from conventional formats through a strictly curated environment designed for strategic networking. By bridging the gap between high-end international manufacturers and top-tier segment buyers, Val:ue Milan further strengthens the Group’s global portfolio with a unique, high-impact concept built around a refined and carefully selected offering.

#Knitting & Hosiery

Closing completed – Mayer & Cie. Global starts business operations

The future of the Mayer & Cie. brand has been secured: Following the successful completion of the purchase agreement for assets in the circular knitting machinery segment of the German traditional company Mayer & Cie., which was signed in February this year, the brand will continue to exist. The transfer of these assets to the new owner, Xu Hongjie, was formally completed yesterday afternoon. This clears the way for the resumption of business operations at the Albstadt site.

TOP