Recent information

08.01.2025

Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025 – Fibre Microplastic Formation versus Marine Biodegradability

Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025 – New with Biosynthetics

12-13 March 2025 – hybrid event (on site and online), Cologne (Germany)

++ Preliminary program released ++ almost 60 participants from 11 countries registered ++ 

The upcoming conference will pave pathways to a sustainable textile industry

Biodegradable or not? Fate of microparticles from cellulosics and synthetic polymers in the environment

(C) NTTI/A.Eich
(C) NTTI/A.Eich

Synthetic fibres shed microplastics during use and washing, which are considered a new environmental pollutant of the textile industry. Commonly named microfibres, these tiny particles are dispersed globally through air and water, and are found in glaciers, soils, lakes and accumulate in the oceans, potentially impacting human and animal health. This conference session will focus on the complex relationship between microplastic formation and biodegradability in the environment. The finding of a high number of cellulosic fibres in environmental samples seems to contradict the generally good biodegradability of cellulose and its regenerates.

This phenomenon, also known as the Cellulose Enigma, is not yet fully understood. The session will explore the factors that influence fibre degradation in the environment and examine the potential of biodegradable fibres to reduce long-term pollution. Leading experts will discuss the challenges associated with preventing microplastics and developing fibres that can fully biodegrade in natural ecosystems and provide insights into innovative solutions that could help mitigate this pressing environmental issue. Several studies on cellulosic and synthetic fibers as well as bioplastics such as PHA and PLA will be presented and discussed by leading research institutes and laboratories in the field of biodegradability.

Olivia Skilbeck

University of Leeds (UK)

The Effect of Preparation, Dyeing and Finishing Treatments on the Biodegradation of Cellulosic Microfibres

Abstract

Bruno De Wilde

Normec OWS (BE)

Bio-end of Life Options for Cellulose Fibers

Abstract

Christian Lott

HYDRA Marine Sciences (DE)

Key Findings from a Meta-study on the Environmental Fate, Microplastic Formation and Potential Toxicity of PLA – and Implications for Other Biodegradable Plastic Polymers

Abstract

Miriam Weber

HYDRA Marine Sciences (DE)

Environmental Biodegradation Performance of PHA Polymers in the Open Environment & Options for LCA

Abstract

The Conference Advisory Board, and the experts from the nova-Institute, have thoroughly reviewed and evaluated over 40 submitted abstracts. The selected external experts bring new insights and perspectives from the pulp, fibre and further developing industries, promising to spark and deepen discussions at the event. Their expertise across the entire fibre value chain will enrich the topics covered and ensure a dynamic and insightful exchange of ideas. The presentations will provide a platform for the discussion at the conference after each session, and the Advisory Board members will foster a lively debate to drive innovation industry-wide.

Sponsors

Each year, the Cellulose Fibres Conference is supported by wonderful companies that through innovation actively foster the sustainable transition of the textile and fibre industry. 

Meet the Innovation Award Sponsor of the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025:

GIG Karasek

https://www.gigkarasek.at

 

Meet the Silver Sponsors of the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025:

List

http://www.list.ch

 

Valmet

https://www.valmet.com/more-industries/textiles

 

Meet the Bronze Sponsor of the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025:

DIENES

http://www.dienes.net

 

Sponsoring Opportunities

Become a sponsor of the conference!

 

Join us as a sponsor and find a range of sponsoring options which provide you with maximum visibility and impact at the conference. We are open to new ideas and would be delighted to implement them with you. Please contact us if our sponsoring options appeal to you or if you would like to put forward a proposal of your own!

Key Account Management
Guido Müller
guido.mueller@nova-institut.de

Call for Posters

Want to present a poster at the conference? You are welcome to present your latest products, technologies or developments. Deadline for submission: 31 January 2025
Submit your poster now!

Exhibition Opportunities

Become an exhibitor of the conference!

Companies that would like to book an exhibition booth (6m2) can do so for the price of 3,000 EUR (excl. 19% VAT). Included in the booth fee is one conference ticket. The conference exhibition is located prominently within the conference hall so interaction with the participants is guaranteed. Further information here.

Conference Registration


You are welcome to register now! Registration fee will be 1095 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) for both days and 745 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) for the virtual option.

We look forward to meeting you at the conference!

Your nova conference team.