PHAtex
The textile and plastics sector is under severe pressure. Raw materials are becoming scarcer and more expensive, whilst the impact of fossil-based materials on the climate and the environment is becoming increasingly apparent. Microplastics from textiles end up in water, soil and even in the human body. At the same time, European policy calls for rapid steps towards lower CO₂ emissions, greater circularity and reduced dependence on fossil raw materials.
PHAtex is responding to this challenge and investigating how polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) – natural polymers produced by bacteria – can be used as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based textiles, such as polyester. PHAs are entirely bio-based, can biodegrade under natural conditions and have the potential to significantly reduce microplastic emissions. By cleverly combining and adapting different PHAs, a material is created that can be processed using existing textile processes whilst meeting the required performance standards in use. In addition to biodegradation, recycling is also being investigated, so that PHA fibres fit within a circular economy. This knowledge is being applied in two textile demonstrators. The first is a sustainable application in the clothing industry, where the microfibre issue plays a significant role, and the second application focuses on agrotextiles, such as ground cover fabrics that are often too contaminated to be recycled. Various relevant tests, such as testing mechanical properties, UV resistance, washability and biodegradability, are carried out to verify whether the products meet the requirements of the sectors.
Research institutions and companies are pooling their expertise across the entire chain: from material development and safety assessment to textile processing and market application. This collaboration enables innovations to progress more quickly from the laboratory to practical application, and gives companies access to new, sustainable solutions.