The demand for bio-based raw materials and fibres has increased noticeably during the last three years as we already know since the 4. EUTT. Bio and eco are keywords, playing an important role in achieving the EU climate protection goals. Still one should not forget, that new functions in technical textiles are essential too. To discuss this topic and to exchange our knowledge on a professional level, we invite innovative companies and researchers to Frankfurt. Since the topic of sustainability is so diverse, we will focus in May 2023 on technical textiles safety and resources.
In the last two years, international supply chains have been temporarily or permanently disrupted. The shortage of smart packaging materials, the growing need for recyclable fibres and for biodegradable textiles opens up new applications for technical textiles. The decarbonization requires lightweight solutions for mobility, a sustainable yet flexible infrastructure for generating and storing the energy sources of the future, and protection of the environment and its resources. EUTT as an open innovation platform therefore invites again to sharing and discussing individual experiences, ideas, and the latest technologies about technical textiles.
Since the beginning of the corona pandemic, industry and research have faced new challenges. Interrupted supply chains, temporary shutdown of businesses as well as test series and research that cannot be carried out due to travel and access restriction. Filtration and nonwoven are the shooting stars 2020/2021 that are in the focus of interest from industry, research and politics. Thus, EUTT asks the question of how research and development will be carried out in the future, how this should be organized and which new products are possible.
Biomaterials have an important role to play in achieving the strategic goals of the European Green Deal launched in 2019. The development of new bio-based fibers, products and markets, based on smart and efficient use of resources, diversifies the industries revenue streams. EUTT invited researcher and industry representatives to talk about there latest products and ideas how to include the bioeconomy in textiles.
Technical Textiles are today used in areas they originally not design for and with its unique properties opened up new markets. Narrow textiles which are used as plaster for medical purposes are base for todays bandaged and tapes for professional sportsman. The incorporating of electronics paved the way to smart textiles for monitoring of body parameters. 3D printed structures and functional finished are nowadays use in personal protective clothing and medical orthotic or prostheses. EUTT invites experts from Europe to present and discuss there research results and developments.
Buildings, roads and current civil engineering projects uses a lot of resources. How can technical textiles enable a new efficient and long lasting infrastructure for the future living in megacities as well as in established towns and villages. EUTT invited architects, engineers, researchers and textile producers from all over Europe to present there products, to discuss ideas and together create visions for future urban living projects.
In November 2008 the European Parliament released the directive 98/EC, drawing up a waste management plan and establishing major principles including obligations to handle waste in a way that does not have a negative impact on the environment or human health. Textiles are among the most ubiquitous materials in our modern society. Almost 100 million tonnes are produced p.a. thereof 70% are synthetic/man-made fibres. In 2018 EUTT asks the question to industry and science which products are ready to be recycled instead of becoming waste. What is still needed or what is already possible for the future circular textile economy.