#Research & Development

2025-08-20

4.2 million Euros for research into textile recycling

Around the world, used textiles are still rarely recycled and pile up into huge mountains of waste. A recent study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) drew attention to this problem. However, the low recycling rate is also due to the fact that only a small percentage of used textiles are actually suitable for recycling into high-quality materials and for demanding applications. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are addressing this problem with their research.

Tapes for high-performance applications made from recycled carbon fibers. © 2025 DITF

Europe's largest textile research center has launched two research projects with a total project volume of over 4.2 million euros.

To promote the recycling of high-performance fibers such as carbon and glass fibers, the DITF will establish a center for the development of high-performance fiber composite structures based on recycled high-performance fibers (HiPerReF) over the next two years. There, scientists are developing a complete process chain for the industrial-scale production of highly oriented semi-finished products from recycled carbon and glass fibers. In order to achieve maximum performance in the component, the interaction of all machines and equipment is being optimized to produce commercially available semi-finished products such as prepreg and non-porous composite plastics with a fiber volume fraction of over 45 percent.

The CYCLOTEXUM project focuses on recycling classic textile waste into high-quality yarns. The aim is to intelligently combine existing mechanical, physical, and chemical process steps so that fine, uniform yarns can be produced from secondary raw materials. The Material Flow and Cost Accounting (MFCA) developed at the DITF makes it possible to review all technological developments for economic efficiency and sustainability.

The research work of the two centers provides the national and global textile industry with effective tools and solutions for an effective textile circular economy.

Panty liners prevent bacterial vaginosis

Worldwide, almost one third of women of childbearing age suffer from bacterial vaginosis. This is when the sensitive microbiome of the vagina becomes unbalanced. Such a disorder of the vaginal flora can cause urogenital infections, abscesses on the ovaries or fallopian tubes or premature births. This significantly increases the risk of infertility in women and of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or HIV.

DITF send a signal for climate protection

The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) have successfully implemented extensive investments in photovoltaic systems at their site in Denkendorf. The systems installed on the roofs of the buildings and covered parking lots have a total installed capacity of 840 kilowatt peak (kWp). The DITF invested 1.6 million euros in this with the support of the state of Baden-Württemberg. The system was ceremonially put into operation on September 17, 2025.

Denkendorf fiber chart revised

A companion during studies and for practical use in the workplace: generations of textile experts have used the Denkendorf Fiber Chart to keep track of all the important characteristic values of textile raw materials. Following the first two editions in the 1970s and 1980s, Denkendorf scientists have comprehensively revised the Fiber Chart. The third edition is now available in digital form for the first time.

Carbowave: Energy efficiency in carbon fiber production

A new technology uses microwaves and plasma heating to produce carbon fibers in an energy-efficient manner. This means high-strength composite materials can be produced more cheaply and efficiently. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) are part of the Carbowave research consortium, which aims to improve and commercialize microwave and plasma-induced carbonization.

Catching heart disease early with AI-based sensor system

It slips on like a normal vest: Fraunhofer IZM has created a smart sensor system in cooperation with the Charité and the Technical University of Berlin. The vest records a vast array of cardiovascular parameters, which an AI-based system uses to support medical diagnostics and spot potentially dangerous developments.

Aachen Summer School: Strengthening German-Korean cooperation in 4D and robotics

The Aachen Summer School has established itself as an important platform for promoting cooperation between RWTH Aachen University and Seoul National University. The focus is on practice-oriented research projects in the field of 4D and robotics technologies, which have been successfully implemented for years at the Institut für Textiltechnik of RWTH Aachen University.

India ITME Society pushes trade & technology alliances in Singapore

India ITME Society hosted India Networking Program - Fabricating the Future of Textile Industry- From Heritage to High-Tech” on 29th October 2025 at Singapore an exclusive gathering of Ministry of Textile Officials, Embassy Officials, Entrepreneurs, Technocrats, Industry Organizations and Media Personnel's designed to foster collaboration, exchange ideas and explore opportunities in the Indian Textile & Textile Engineering Sector.

38th International Cotton Conference Bremen launches registration and unveils key topics

Participants can now register online for the 38th International Cotton Conference Bremen, which will be held on 25-27 March 2026 at the Haus der Bürgerschaft parliament building on market square. All visitors can look forward to a high-calibre conference programme, numerous additional meetings and a valuable exchange of knowledge and information. The comprehensive range of topics covering the entire value chain will provide practical expertise, address current developments, answer key industry questions, and provide new impetus for the future.

Innovation and customer proximity – KARL MAYER’s clear focus makes an impression

ITMA ASIA in Singapore was a resounding success for KARL MAYER, exceeding all expectations. The company welcomed visitors from 39 countries and held around 570 expert discussions. Most guests came from India, followed by China, Indonesia and Pakistan. The exchange with them was both well-founded and targeted. Conversation topics ranged from investment projects and new technologies to opportunities for cooperation and business expansion.