BioFibreLoop: Lignin-Cellulose Fibers Transform Sustainable Textiles

[{"selector":"#anim-5e629eff-95cb-42b0-9b2a-b5079038d727","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":500,"duration":600,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-3c786e2e-d32c-4b1f-8ad9-f9466f15e09c","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-114.55696%, 0px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":500,"duration":600,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-4f646e3c-7539-4d08-a5b6-cd30db455ead","keyframes":{"opacity":[0,1]},"delay":800,"duration":500,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] [{"selector":"#anim-e376370a-2d65-4905-8c24-db1c5e8178ac","keyframes":{"transform":["translate3d(-122.3301%, 0px, 0)","translate3d(0px, 0px, 0)"]},"delay":800,"duration":500,"easing":"cubic-bezier(0.2, 0.6, 0.0, 1)","fill":"both"}] German researchers at DITF have successfully spun fibers from lignin and cellulose, offering a promising alternative to petroleum-based textiles for outdoor gear and workwear. karmactive Staff

These slightly brownish, shimmering fibers created through thermoplastic spinning receive a protective lignin coating that guards against liquids, gases, UV light, and bacteria.

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Supply chain hurdles persist as several small high-quality lignin suppliers have closed, while 'basal lignin' quality varies widely depending on extraction methods.

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TNO's upcoming Fabiola demonstration plant, processing 1 million kg biomass annually, aims to extract high-quality lignin at significantly higher yields to address supply shortages.

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The global lignin products market, valued at USD 1.85 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 2.67 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% according to Straits Research.

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European funding backs this transformation with the CBE JU allocating nearly €215.5 million across 31 innovative projects for circular bio-based industries.

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BioFibreLoop uses laser-based embossing technology to create water and oil-repellent surfaces by mimicking natural structures, eliminating harmful PFAS chemicals.

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With a 42-month timeline starting June 2024, 13 partners, and €7 million budget (€6.5M EU-funded), the project targets 20% adoption across the textile industry.

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Three industrial demonstration sites in Austria, Czech Republic, and Germany will evaluate real-world performance in work and outdoor environments through 2027.

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While lignin is mostly burned for low-grade energy today, BioFibreLoop transforms this paper industry waste product into valuable, functional textile materials.

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