Avantium with Casa da Malha and Lacatoni develop PEF textile prototypes
- Avantium, Casa da Malha and Lacatoni co-developed textile prototypes using PEF (polyethylene furanoate).
- Prototypes include PEF-based yarns, fabrics and a prototype sports shirt showcased at Milano Unica, 7–9 July 2026.
- PEF is a plant-based, recyclable polyester alternative with strong mechanical properties suitable for textile applications.
- The project tests PEF in knitted constructions and performance apparel to inform brands, manufacturers and consumers.
Collaboration
Avantium partnered with Portuguese fabric knitter Casa da Malha and sportswear brand Lacatoni to develop and showcase textile prototypes made with PEF (polyethylene furanoate), marketed by Avantium as releaf®.
Material
PEF is presented as a plant-based, recyclable polyester alternative that combines sustainability with performance, notably strong mechanical properties. The collaboration explores its use in yarns, knitted fabrics and performance apparel.
Prototypes and showcase
The partners produced a range of prototypes incorporating PEF-based yarns and fabrics. A prototype sports shirt developed by Casa da Malha for Lacatoni was among the first tangible results and was exhibited at Milano Unica in Milan, 7–9 July 2026, alongside other samples for brands, manufacturers, industry stakeholders and consumers.
Partner comments
Casa da Malha said the project translates polymer properties into knitted constructions that meet apparel quality and performance standards. Lacatoni noted the prototypes let the company evaluate next-generation materials in real apparel applications. Avantium said the collaboration helps accelerate development of high-performance applications for renewable materials and move them toward commercial adoption.
Source: Avantium