Recent developments
Lower-carbon textile intermediates
BASF launched new product variants with a reduced product carbon footprint (rPCF) for BDO, THF, PolyTHF, and NMP, supporting emissions reduction without reformulation; ISO 14067 calculations and TÜV Rheinland certification are underway. NEXTCHEM introduced NX CONSER PolyFlex technology for the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), enabling PTMEG from conventional or bio-based THF for spandex and TPU value chains.
Hydrosulfite supply realignment
Silox entered a definitive agreement to acquire selected hydrosulfite-related assets from BASF, reinforcing availability for textile and paper dyeing/bleaching in Europe and globally. Silox will also enhance its production capabilities by integrating technical expertise, while BASF discontinues hydrosulfite output in Ludwigshafen.
Polyester circularity scaling
Reju’s selection of Lacq, France, for its new Regeneration Hub targets conversion of post-consumer textiles to rBHET as feedstock for recycled polyester. Complementing this, the EIB has granted €40 million to Technip Energies to advance decarbonisation R&D, including expansion of the Reju demonstration hub for polyester/PET regeneration.
Regional market access
Nouryon’s strategic distribution agreement with IMCD to expand the availability of its textile solutions across EMEA broadens access to surfactants, amine derivatives, and ISCC Plus-certified options. Toray strengthened European downstream reach with an Ultrasuede showroom and stock sales point in Sintra, Portugal, targeting interiors and adjacent sectors.
Corporate and capacity moves
Asahi Kasei and Teijin agreed to merge Asahi Kasei Advance Corp. and Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd., forming a joint venture effective October 2026. In Brazil, Rhodia will invest R$ 100 million in its Santo André unit to modernize polyamide production and expand high value-added threads.
Bio-based coatings progress
Trinseo and RWDC signed a joint development agreement to advance polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) dispersion technology, achieving pilot-scale, compostable barrier coatings compatible with standard paper-drying conditions, with applications under evaluation for textiles.