The international trade fair Techtextil is widely regarded as the global showcase for technical textiles—a sector that is growing rapidly and increasingly shifting toward the circular economy. Every two years, the highly anticipated Innovation Awards are presented here. Notably, although no Belgian companies were nominated this year, Belgium was far from absent.
The repeated presence of Dr. Jan Laperre, General Manager of Centexbel and a member of the jury, highlighted the international weight of Belgian textile expertise. The fact that a representative from a Belgian research center helps assess top-tier innovations says a great deal about the country’s reputation in research, recycling, and technological development. These four winners truly stood out.
Nanotubes turned into fibres – a leap forward for smart textiles
One of the most eye-catching winners came from South Korea. The company aweXome Ray was awarded for “axrial”, a technology that converts carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into processable textile structures. These tubes are up to a hundred times stronger than steel, electrically conductive, and extremely lightweight, but until now were difficult to integrate into textiles.
Thanks to this innovation, the nanotubes can now be processed into membranes and fibers compatible with traditional textile techniques. The applications are broad: from smart textiles and heated seating surfaces to energy-efficient and lightweight electrical systems for cars and aircraft.
PFAS-free water repellency: a breakthrough from France
Sustainability was a central theme. The French start-up H&B Materials introduced an alternative to PFAS, the notorious “forever chemicals.” Their solution is a water-repellent treatment based on fatty acids derived from agricultural waste, which bind to fibres at a molecular level.
The result is an integrated water-repellent property—without coating—that achieves top performance in standard tests. With stricter regulations on the horizon, including in France from 2026, this innovation is likely to gain traction quickly. Can two scientists from France change the fabric of our future? The world will be watching! Watch the video below to see how it works.
When wood becomes knittable
That innovation can come from unexpected angles is demonstrated by spek Design with “FormLig – Knitted Wood.” This material combines cellulose yarns with lignin—a by-product of the paper industry that is currently almost entirely burned.
The result is a knittable, shapeable, and compostable material free from microplastics. Applications range from design objects to packaging and even tree protection. A compelling example of how waste streams can be turned into valuable resources within the textile value chain.
Breakthrough in chemical recycling of polyester-based textile waste
High expectations surround the German startup re.solution, which enables chemical recycling of polyester-based textile waste. What is particularly noteworthy is that blended and impure (dyed and coated) textiles can also be processed. This is the type of waste that currently ends up in landfills or incinerators.
They use an electrochemical process (hydrolysis) powered by renewable electricity for this purpose. Because no acids are involved, no harmful salt waste is produced, and water and chemical consumption decrease drastically. The company promises materials of comparable quality to original or non-recycled materials.
The potential impact is significant: up to 90% lower CO₂ emissions compared to virgin polyester. With a semi-industrial plant set to become operational in 2026, the company is taking a major step toward truly circular textile production. Reportedly, interest is already strong among collectors, sorters, fashion brands, and technical textile manufacturers.
Belgium: small country, big impact
Although Belgian companies did not make it to the podium, the message in Frankfurt was clear: Belgium is playing at the highest level. Through research centers like Centexbel and key figures such as Laperre, the country remains a benchmark for innovation and expertise.
Techtextil 2026 confirms one thing above all: technical textiles are evolving at high speed and are becoming truly ubiquitous—spanning sectors such as energy, mobility, and biotech. Those who want to play a role must invest in knowledge, collaboration, and innovation—areas where Belgium already has strong foundations.
