Recent developments
Show-floor developments
At April shows, BASF at Techtextil 2026 highlighted binders, mass‑balanced polyamides, and a PFAS‑free elastic microporous membrane for apparel. Covestro at Techtextil 2026 presented waterborne and mass‑balanced PU coatings, thermoplastic adhesive films from Pontacol, TPU films, and SCF‑foamable TPUs for footwear/interiors. Asahi Kasei Advance will exhibit flame‑retardant acrylic fabrics, 3D spacer textiles, cellulosic nonwovens, and binder‑free spunbonds.
Circular polymer advances
BASF’s Techtextil lineup spans Ultramid Ccycled, biocircular Ultramid BMB, a certified ZeroPCF PA6, and loopamid from textile waste now in garments. Reju secured €135 million for a Chemelot Regeneration Hub to depolymerize hard‑to‑recycle polyester textiles with about 50% lower emissions. Reju also selected Lacq for a French Regeneration Hub on the Induslacq platform to produce rBHET for new polyester.
Intermediates and elastomers
BASF launched rPCF variants of BDO, THF, PolyTHF and NMP from Ludwigshafen, enabling lower‑emission elastic fibers and TPU chains without reformulation. NEXTCHEM’s NX CONSER PolyFlex allows PTMEG production from conventional or bio‑based THF, expanding feedstock routes for spandex producers. Evonik highlighted PA12/PEBA for premium footwear and melt‑blown VESTAMID for textile and filtration uses alongside PFAS‑free processing aids.
Costs and supply shifts
Toray imposed temporary surcharges on performance chemicals, fibers and textiles as oil, naphtha and logistics costs rose with Middle East disruption. WACKER raised prices for silicone‑based products effective April 1, citing energy, feedstock and freight inflation. Silox agreed to acquire BASF’s hydrosulfite assets, supporting supply of textile reducing agents as BASF exits Ludwigshafen hydrosulfite output. Ultrasuede showroom and stock point in Portugal supports European fulfillment for interiors and fashion.