The junior research project “ConFiTex” (Conifers, Innovative and Textile Fibres, Sustainable Textiles) explores how conifer needles, previously treated as waste, can be developed into a renewable raw material for textiles. The work concentrates in particular on needles from native pine. The aim is to obtain cellulosic fibre material and establish it within textile value creation.

From chemistry to textile processing

The researchers are looking at the full processing chain: from chemical splitting and process-engineering extraction through modification steps to textile processing. In parallel, dyeing processes based on natural colourants are being applied and optimised. Further textile finishing routes based on modified natural products are planned, to be realised using modern process engineering. The resulting fibre material is intended to be fully compostable.

Design as a selling criterion

A further strand of the project addresses product development and application. The plan includes a collection of newly designed yarn and twine qualities with a matching colour selection, to be further processed into prototypes for specific applications. WHZ emphasises the project’s interface competence between STEM disciplines and design practice.

Team, partners, funding

ConFiTex is led by Prof. Katharina Jebsen-Plättner. The interdisciplinary team includes Prof. Dr Hardy Müller, Prof. Dr Philipp Kitschke and Prof. Dr-Ing. Silke Heßberg, as well as six early-career researchers. The Technical University of Dresden is an associated partner via the Enzyme Technology research group (Dr Anett Werner) at the Institute of Natural Materials Technology. The project also cooperates with regional companies and institutes, including vti, STFI, Zschimmer & Schwarz, Norafin Industries, NIG, ASA and TITK. The project volume is around €1.5 million, of which just under €1.4 million is funded by ESF Plus and the Free State of Saxony.