[pageLogInLogOut]

#Research & Development

ITA researchers win two JEC Innovation Awards for sustainable textile-based composites

Researchers from the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University have been honored with two JEC Innovation Awards at JEC World 2025 in Paris, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions to sustainable construction and sports equipment.
JEC-Composites Innovation Awards 2025 “Sport, Leisure & Recreation” © 2025 ITA
JEC-Composites Innovation Awards 2025 “Sport, Leisure & Recreation” © 2025 ITA


40% CO? savings with carbon fibre stone in construction

In the "Building and Civil Engineering" category, ITA was awarded for its development of Carbon Fibre Stone (CFS), an eco-friendly material that significantly reduces CO? emissions in house wall construction.

+ Up to 40% CO? savings compared to conventional concrete

+ Innovative combination of stone and bio-based fibers

+ Each square meter of CFS binds 59 kg of CO?, whereas traditional cement walls release 98 kg of CO?

This innovation offers a sustainable alternative to CO?-intensive concrete, supporting the construction industry's transition toward low-carbon materials.

Bio-based recyclable 3d laminate for sustainable surfboards

ITA also secured an award in the “Sports, Leisure & Recreation” category for its Honey Roots technology, a revolutionary bio-based and recyclable 3D laminate used in surfboard manufacturing.

+ Enhances mechanical performance while eliminating the need for consumables in the infusion process

+ Made from bio-based or recycled materials, reducing environmental impact

+ Lightweight and durable, offering improved surfboard longevity and performance

This innovation was developed in collaboration with Techno Carbon Technologies GbR and Kanoa Surfboards, combining advanced textile engineering with sustainability-driven design.

Recognition for ita’s commitment to sustainable innovation

PhD student and project leader Lars Wollert emphasized the significance of these awards, stating:

"These awards are a recognition of our research activities and show what the ITA stands for the development of innovative products and processes together with a great network of industrial partners, openness for versatile application areas in which fibres of all kinds bring advantages and research in the context of sustainability."

With these achievements, ITA continues to push the boundaries of textile-based composite materials, contributing to sustainable advancements in both the construction and sporting goods industries.



More News from Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University (ITA)

#Research & Development

First "Korea Day" at RWTH Aachen attracts more than 300 participants

The inaugural Korea Day in Aachen brought together representatives from science, business and Korean institutions to strengthen German-Korean cooperation in research, technology and education. The Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University was among the participating organisations.

#Research & Development

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.

#Research & Development

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.

#Recycling / Circular Economy

2. RETRAKT EU Conference - „Join the Circle“: Turning challenges of the textile sector into chances

On 19 November 2026, the second RETRAKT EU Conference – “Join the Circle” will take place in Brussels. The event, which focuses on the transformation of the textile sector towards a circular economy, will be held under the motto: “Turning Challenges in the Textile Sector into Chances.”

More News on Research & Development

#Research & Development

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.

#Research & Development

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.

#Research & Development

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.

Latest News

#ITMA Asia + CITME 2026

KARL MAYER expands TM WEFT capabilities for fashion fabrics at ITMA ASIA 2026

A new E 36 gauge, an EL pattern drive and improved yarn tension regulation extend the application possibilities of KARL MAYER's TM WEFT warp knitting machine. At ITMA ASIA 2026, the company will demonstrate the developments alongside a collection of woven-like warp knitted fabrics for fashion and apparel.

#Recycling / Circular Economy

Textiles Recycling Expo USA 2027 opens registration and expands with manufacturing exhibition

The second edition of Textiles Recycling Expo USA will take place on 7–8 April 2027 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Following a debut that attracted more than 1,800 visitors and 95 exhibitors, the event will expand its exhibition and conference programme and will be held alongside the new Textiles Manufacturing Expo.

#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

MarediModa highlights transparency and traceability with InsideOut by C.L.A.S.S.

The InsideOut by C.L.A.S.S. exhibition at MarediModa 2026 in Cannes focused on transparency, traceability and the measurable values behind fashion products. Its Decalogue of Values aims to make environmental, social and production-related information more accessible throughout the textile supply chain.

#Industry 4.0 / Digitalization

White House reduces production planning time by up to 80% with Coats Digital’s FastReactPlan

Indian garment manufacturer White House has reduced its production planning cycle by 60–80% following the implementation of Coats Digital’s FastReactPlan software. The integrated planning solution provides greater visibility across production, capacity and material requirements while supporting faster decision-making and improved delivery performance.

TOP