Utilization of foliage for pulp and packaging, algae as a raw material for biosynthetic fibers, plant-based surface material for vehicle interiors and much more – the award nominees are as diverse as this year’s range of topics at the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025
On March 12 and 13, the cellulose fiber industry will once again be looking to Cologne with particular interest. Six products have been nominated for the popular innovation award. The jury has selected six outstanding entries that aim to make the future more sustainable with their pioneering products.
Every year, conference organizer nova-Institut and award sponsor GIG Karasek honor companies that impress with their creativity, technological progress and ecological impact. The aim of the award is not only to honor the innovative products of the winners, but also to set an example for the courage to innovate.
The product presentations of the nominees, the voting and the award ceremony will take place on March 12 at the conference. Participants on site will be able to vote live for the three winners. Over 220 people are expected to attend.
The nominees
Fibers365 (DE): Hemp365 – Agricultural decoration and carrier material
The “Hemp365” concept is characterized by the production of a cost-effective, plant-based decoration and carrier material through the chemical-free processing of a regional agricultural fiber, the processing of short fibers in a wetlaid process and a massive reduction in the amount of fiber required for strength and functionality. The non-fiber content is less than 7% and is also made from biogenic and biodegradable material. Hemp365 is 100% natural and vegan. It was developed in collaboration with an automotive manufacturer for consumer (fashion) and industrial applications. fibers365.com
eleaf Paper France (FR): Releaf Fiber – Environmentally friendly paper from urban leaf waste
Releaf Paper France transforms urban leaf waste into sustainable cellulose fibers and thus offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional hardwood pulp. The company’s proprietary low-temperature extraction process isolates high-quality fibers with excellent paper-forming properties. With a cellulose content of 32-48% and similar properties to hardwood, Releaf fibers are ideal for packaging materials such as corrugated cardboard, cartons and bags. This innovative process, which requires minimal water and non-aggressive solvents, is in line with the principles of the circular economy, recycling millions of tons of urban leaf waste annually and helping global brands develop sustainable packaging solutions. releaf-paper.com
SA-Dynamics (DE): Cellulose aerogel textiles – next generation insulation
Cellulose aerogel textiles are revolutionary insulation materials made from 100% biodegradable cellulose aerogel fibers. They combine the flexibility and ease of processing of conventional fabrics with the excellent thermal insulation properties of aerogels by using a novel aerogel fiber process. They are lightweight, highly efficient, compatible with conventional textile machinery and represent a sustainable alternative to fossil and animal-based insulation materials. Fully recyclable and free of microplastic emissions, cellulose aerogel textiles set a new benchmark for circular economy solutions in the textile and construction industries. The first functional demonstrators were developed as part of two projects funded by Biotexfuture and RWTH Innovation respectively. sa-dynamics.com
Sci-Lume Labs (US): Bylon® – Renewable circular fibers from agricultural waste
Sci-Lume Labs manufactures Bylon®, a scalable, circular, biosynthetic fiber. Using highly efficient chemical processes to upgrade agricultural waste, Bylon® can be seamlessly integrated into every step of the global value chain – from raw material production to textile manufacturing. Bylon® differs from conventional and novel materials because it is simultaneously bio-based, waste-derived, degradable, recyclable, downstream compatible and melt-spinnable. Bylon® also offers a unique performance profile by combining the mechanical properties and conformability of conventional plastics with the moisture properties and circularity of natural fibers. As Bylon® requires no changes in the supply chain, it enables the industry to reduce its environmental impact – without compromising on quality, performance or cost. sci-lumelabs.com
TMG Automotive (PT): REFIBER – Sustainable plant-based surface material
Textile-based composite solutions are a growing trend in the automotive sector, especially for decorative and functional interior applications. Innovative plant-based leather demonstrates this trend, combining sustainability with advanced performance. Developed from a biopolymer matrix in combination with cellulose waste, this material transforms waste into a high-quality, environmentally friendly solution. The textile backing and non-woven laminate backing are also made entirely from cellulose fibers, creating a fully integrated bio-based composite. This lightweight, durable and aesthetically versatile material, developed for automotive interiors and other applications, sets a new standard for sustainable design while meeting the industry’s growing demand for circular and renewable alternatives. tmgautomotive.pt
Uluu (AU): Replacing plastic in textiles with natural materials derived from algae
Uluu is an Australian start-up that aims to replace plastics with natural polymers (PHA). Uluu’s materials are made from a renewable resource: cultivated algae, ending dependence on fossil fuels and land-based crops. In collaboration with Deakin University, Uluu is developing textiles that behave like synthetic polyester but are biodegradable and biocompatible, avoiding the persistent pollution of microplastics in fashion. Importantly, Uluu materials are reusable, recyclable and, above all, compostable. They are produced naturally through a unique fermentation process using algae, saltwater microbes and seawater. Uluu pellets can be used directly in place of plastics (e.g. polyester, nylon) in existing melt spinning lines, creating yarns that can be knitted or woven into textiles. In addition to fiber pellets, Uluu also produces other types of pellets that replace plastics used in items such as buttons, sunglasses, hair clips and packaging. uluu.com.au
Call for Posters
The poster exhibition is a highlight of the conference and an eagerly awaited event, especially for young scientists. Papers can be submitted until January 31, 2025. https://cellulose-fibres.eu/call-for-posters/
Program
The program and all information on registration, sponsoring and the exhibition can be found at cellulose-fibres.eu
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