A clear focus on alternative materials

Technical textiles increasingly rely on sustainable inputs, driven by regulatory requirements and rising expectations for performance and cost efficiency. Techtextil 2026 reflects this development with a growing group of exhibitors specialising in natural and bio-based solutions. The newly introduced Nature Performance label serves as an anchor point, helping visitors identify relevant technologies quickly across the halls.

Natural fibres gaining industrial relevance

The strong growth of natural and bio?based fibres is supported by factors such as biodegradability, recyclability and independence from fossil resources. Data from the Discover Natural Fibres Initiative underlines the scale: jute, coir, sisal, industrial hemp, flax and other fibres are already produced in significant volumes and used in technical applications. Their potential for extended recovery and recycling adds another dimension that many companies now explore.

Application examples across sectors

The range of possible uses is broad. Recycled natural fibres already appear in composite components in automotive engineering, where they help reduce weight. Hollow fibre insulation materials or construction solutions using natural fibres as binders demonstrate further technical pathways. Techtextil gathers these approaches in one place, with Hall 9.1 acting as a central hub for suppliers active in this field.

Circularity as a second important theme

Around 90 exhibitors focus on recycled or recyclable fibres and yarns. The Dutch Circular Textile Pavilion showcases recent progress, including SaXcell's chemical fibre to fibre recycling process that converts textile waste into cotton like new fibres. Vodde presents a complete fibre to fibre supply chain using 100 percent recycled textile waste. Additional co exhibitors provide access to further innovations, among them a yarn library for material comparison.

Guidance through verified sustainability

The cross fair concept Texpertise Econogy highlights companies that have been audited for sustainable and responsible business practices. About 120 exhibitors carry this label, making it easier for professionals to identify established approaches while navigating a rapidly evolving market.