The project ‘EnTreHeaT — Enzymatic Surface Treatment of Biogene Heavy Tows (bHT) for use in High-Performance Composites’ (CORNET, no. 01IF00417C) has been initiated by FIBRE. Since June 1st, 2025, research is performed in collaboration with Sächsisches Textilforschungsinstitut e.V. (STFI), Chemnitz, DE and InoTEX s.r.o, Dvůr Králové n.L., CZ, coordinated by Forschungsvereinigung Werkstoffe aus Nachhaltigen Rohstoffen e.V. (WNR), Rudolstadt, DE and Klastr technické textilie, z.s. (CLUTEX), Liberec, CZ. The project aims to improve the interaction of bHT and thermosets.

The spinning solution is prepared by mixing the polymer PANI with a suitable solvent. A dopant is also added to impart conductivity. This process converts the non-conjugated molecular structure of PANI into a conjugated form through doping. The fibers are extruded using wet spinning in a solvent in a system specifically designed for temperature-sensitive polymers. The fiber is precipitated in a coagulation bath, and the remaining solvent is washed out in a subsequent washing and stretching bath.

The goal of the project is to develop a purification process for removing lead from drinking water that, compared to existing methods, is energy-efficient, produces as little waste as possible, is flexible in application, and requires minimal maintenance. Alginates serve as the starting material; these form gels in the presence of calcium cations and are used in many technical applications, such as in the food and medical technology industries.

The “rPLA Yarn” research project aims to develop a recyclable yarn from industrial and consumer waste of the bioplastic polylactide (PLA). In the first phase, the quality of the PLA waste is analyzed and optimized through compounding. In the second phase, yarns with textile-grade strength are developed using the melt-spinning process.

The “Circular Electronics” research project is dedicated to the development of fully recyclable materials and components. This interdisciplinary research focuses on novel dynamic polymer networks (vitrimers) as well as biosynthetic high-performance fibers for printed circuit boards, organic semiconductors, and sensor systems. Through innovative, empirically validated strategies, the project makes a significant contribution toward a more sustainable electronics industry.

The project “HempTuft — Sustainable, Recyclable Textile Carpets Made from Natural Plant Fibers” (CORNET, FKZ: 01IF00406C) has been carried out since July 1, 2025, by the Faserinstitut Bremen e.V. in collaboration with the Institute for Floor Systems at RWTH Aachen e.V. (TFI), Aachen, Germany, and the Technical University of Liberec (TUL), Liberec, Czech Republic, under the coordination of the Forschungskuratorium Textil e.V. (FKT), Berlin, Germany, and Klastr technické textilie, z.s. (CLUTEX), Liberec, Czech Republic, has been conducting research on the development of fully recyclable carpet flooring based on natural fibers and biopolymers.

The “Ufomesche” research project focuses on developing environmentally friendly and functionally optimized menstrual underwear. To replace fossil-based, petrochemical plastics such as polyester, sustainable bioplastics, bio-based fibers, and natural fibers are being investigated as raw materials. In addition, a new, standards-compliant method for testing the menstrual process is being developed to ensure the optimal textile structure for an improved feeling of dryness and greater user acceptance.