The EU-funded BioFibreLoop project has marked a major milestone in Europe’s journey toward sustainable textiles by successfully spinning lignin-based fibres blended with cellulose. The breakthrough, led by the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF), is aimed at advancing eco-friendly alternatives for outdoorwear, activewear, and workwear.
The development highlights lignin’s potential to replace harmful chemicals in functional textiles with bio-based, recyclable solutions. Yet, the project faces challenges: securing a stable supply of high-quality lignin remains critical, as properties vary depending on extraction methods and several specialised suppliers have exited the market, according to a European Commission update.
DITF researchers have been testing lignin’s performance in fibre production and coatings, exploring functions such as liquid, gas, and bacterial protection. The ultimate goal is to ensure these lignin-coated fabrics are not only high-performing but also biodegradable and recyclable, aligning with the European Green Deal.
Despite current supply hurdles, new wood refinery plants emerging in Europe are expected to stabilise availability. BioFibreLoop views this as a unique opportunity for lignin producers to secure large-scale demand in the textile market, strengthening Europe’s bio-based supply chains and resilience against global disruptions.
“Our good research results on the use of lignin in textile products together with the great market potential will strongly motivate the establishment of biorefineries for suitable lignin variants in Europe,” said Thomas Stegmaier, technical coordinator at DITF.
Running until 2027, BioFibreLoop (Circular biobased technical textiles with innovative bio-inspired non-toxic functionalisation) is poised to reshape Europe’s sustainable textile landscape by integrating biodegradability, recyclability, and performance into next-generation fabrics.
