International cooperation

International collaboration is a key factor in the success of forward-looking research. In the field of international cooperation, the STFI systematically taps into global knowledge potential through close collaboration with research institutions, companies and associations both in Switzerland and abroad. These partnerships not only provide access to the latest scientific findings and technological developments, but also foster the generation of innovative project ideas.

Cross-sector networking creates particular added value: different perspectives and expertise are pooled to address complex issues holistically and develop sustainable solutions for the textiles of the future. This gives rise to high-performing networks that accelerate the transfer of knowledge and technology and specifically strengthen innovative capacity.

At STFI, an internationally experienced team coordinates research networks between industry and science.

Our EU collaborations:

MC4 – Multi-level Circular Process Chain for Carbon and Glass Fibre Composites

MC4 is a European project aimed at promoting circular approaches for carbon and glass fibre composites. These materials are indispensable in many technical applications due to their lightweight properties and high mechanical performance. However, the European value chains for carbon and glass fibres need to become more environmentally and economically efficient

PESCO-UP – Textile fibre recycling from mixed streams of PES/CO textiles

The PESCO-UP project aims to find innovative solutions for recycling textile production and post-consumer waste, with a view to reintroducing PES/CO blends into the production cycle.
It supports the circular economy across the entire textile recycling value chain and contributes to resource conservation and sustainability in the textile industry.
In addition to the technical feasibility of new recycling processes, the project’s approach also examines regulatory and socio-economic barriers in order to increase market acceptance of recycled materials and innovative technologies.

BIONANOPOLIS – Open Innovation Test Bed for developing safe nano-enabled bio-based materials and polymer bio-nanocomposites for multi-functional and new advanced applications

The project aims to improve technologies and processes for the application of nanomaterials. To this end, existing pilot plants across Europe for the processing of bio-based nanomaterials will be adapted and optimised. BIONANOPOLIS will also offer industrial partners a wide range of services to support the launch of new bio-based nano-products, such as the development of safety protocols for bio-based nanomaterials, staff training and specialisation, and the development of standards and business models. As part of the project, a business model is to be developed that will enable interested industrial partners to access the pilot plants even after the project has ended.

RECARBOSIZE – Improved sizings for recycled carbon fibres to optimize adhesion with polymer matrices and to improve processing behaviour for composite manufacturing

The main objective of the project is to develop a concept for the re-sizing of recycled carbon fibres (rCF) and to adapt the sizing agents for selected thermosetting (epoxy resin, polyurethane) and thermoplastic matrices (polyamide, polyphenylene sulphide). The rCF, equipped with chemically compatible and process-optimised sizing agents, are processed into non-woven fabrics, from which lightweight components with improved mechanical properties compared to unsized rCF are manufactured in combination with the matrices. The starting material consists of rCF obtained from pyrolysis and solvolysis processes.
As part of the project, a business model is to be developed that will enable interested industrial partners to access the pilot plants even after the project has ended.

Contact

Dr. Anna Große

EU projects, project management, networks

+49 371 5274-282

Romy Naumann

EU projects, project management, networks

+49 371 5274-186