#Techtextil 2026

2026-04-17

RUDOLF is pioneering the future of technical textiles by developing innovative, functional solutions

At Techtextil 2026, RUDOLF presents its latest innovations for textile auxiliaries, textile care and construction chemicals. Based in Geretsried, Bavaria, the company draws on more than 100 years of experience and continues to position itself as a global technology partner focused on quality, innovation and sustainability.

Functional performance for demanding applications

The focus of the trade fair presentation is on finishing solutions for technical and functional textiles. With FERAN® SRC, RUDOLF introduces a soil-release finish developed for cellulose-based textiles and their blends. The technology forms a durable protective layer that facilitates the removal of oil, grease and pigment-based stains, helping textiles remain clean for longer while maintaining their quality even after repeated washing cycles. At the same time, the finish supports wearing comfort by ensuring a permanently hydrophilic surface without affecting the textile handle.

Another highlight is RUCO-THERM® PCM BIO MFT, a bio-based finishing solution designed to improve the thermal performance of textiles. The product enables effective climate regulation and supports textile designs that combine functional performance with responsible material selection, addressing the growing demand for sustainable high-performance textiles.

RUDOLF is also expanding its portfolio with RUCO-BAC® ROX, developed in collaboration with Heraeus Precious Metals. The solution is based on a catalytic mechanism that differs from conventional biocidal technologies, particularly silver-based systems. Through a reaction with atmospheric moisture, oxygen is converted into reactive oxygen species that combat odor-causing and other microorganisms while also oxidizing residues on the textile surface. As the process is based on a cyclic redox system, the functionality is continuously regenerated rather than consumed, enabling long-lasting performance.

In addition, the company introduces RUCO®-LUB BMN as a biodegradable alternative to conventional sewability finishes. The solution improves surface smoothness in woven and knitted fabrics, reduces friction during sewing and supports damage-free processing. It also provides a soft handle, helps maintain tear strength and contributes to extended product lifetime by reducing wear.

A platform for exchange and innovation

At Techtextil 2026, RUDOLF will engage with customers, partners and industry experts on future applications, technological developments and sustainable strategies across the textile value chain. Visitors are invited to explore the company’s solutions at booth E40 in Hall 9.0.

RUDOLF gets the exclusive global distribution rights for Sanitized® textile technologies

With effect from today, RUDOLF officially assumes exclusive global distribution rights for Sanitized® textile technologies from SANITIZED AG. This is the next milestone in the strategic collaboration announced in 2025, with the partnership between the two companies now fully implemented and expanded worldwide.

RUDOLF appoints Marcos Furrer as CEO, Dr Gunther Duschek as CTOO and Dr Oliver Kusterle as CSO – Dr Wolfgang A. Schumann becomes Chairman of the Board of Directors

RUDOLF, a leading global medium-sized specialty chemical company, is adopting a new management structure at the beginning of 2025 to accelerate the implementation of its strategic goals. The aim remains to further strengthen RUDOLF‘s international market position and to sustainably, expand the company‘s innovative strength in an increasingly dynamic competitive environment.

RUDOLF introduces innovative digital pigment printing toolbox

RUDOLF, a world leader in speciality chemicals, announces a development in digital textile printing with the introduction of its new Digital Pigment Printing Toolbox. Continuous research and development enables RUDOLF to offer products with maximum performance and minimum environmental impact. Interest in digital pigment printing is growing because it has the advantage over other printing technologies of eliminating one process step. With pigment printing, there is no need for posttreatment, which means that the water required for post-treatment can be saved.

FET’s revolutionary gel spinning system wins Techtextil Innovation Award

FET has received the prestigious Techtextil Innovation Award 2026 in the New Production Technology category. The Techtextil Innovation Award honours outstanding ideas in textile technology, sustainability, AI and the creation of technical textiles, selected by an international jury of experts. Ranging from new materials to new production technologies, this award recognises progressive ideas that are driving forces for numerous industries, such as automotive, medical and construction.

Young talents honoured – 60 years Walter Reiners Foundation

At the Techtextil trade fair in Frankfurt at the end of April, Peter D. Dornier, chairman of the VDMA’s Walter Reiners Foundation, presented awards to five successful young engineers. Promotion and sustainability awards were presented in the categories of bachelor’s/project theses and diploma/master’s theses. Academic theses are eligible for the sustainability awards if, for example, they develop solutions for resource-efficient products and technologies.

Techtextil 2026: KARL MAYER impresses as an innovative sector partner

KARL MAYER looks back with satisfaction on its participation in Techtextil 2026. From April 21 to 24, the international industry leader used the trade show in Frankfurt to meet with numerous key customers at its booth and, at the same time, establish many new contacts. Most visitors came from Germany, followed by major markets such as Poland, the United Kingdom, Turkey, France, and Portugal.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles unveils Trends 2027 alongside new lifestyle zone and product expansion

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition 2026 will spotlight forward-looking design directions and evolving consumer demand, as the global home and lifestyle market continues to adapt to sustainability priorities, emotional well-being, and diversified living spaces. Taking place from 18 – 20 August 2026 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair will present its latest trend theme, ‘BREATHE UP!’, developed in collaboration with leading international trend forecaster NellyRodi™ Agency, alongside expanded product categories, and the debut of the Home Textiles Lifestyle Zone.

Itema to showcase weaving excellence at ITM 2026

From June 9 to 13, Itema will exhibit at ITM 2026 in Istanbul (Hall 8 – Stand 806D), unveiling a distinctive exhibition concept designed to highlight the Company’s expertise across the entire weaving value chain. For this year’s edition, Itema will introduce an innovative stand experience built around two core areas: advanced weaving and spare parts solutions and an immersive textile gallery featuring fabrics produced by Itema Customers worldwide.