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DITF researches bio-based FR materials

Swatches | August 1, 2026 | By:

A glass beaker tipped over, spilling translucent yellow granules of flame-retardant polyethylene furanoate, or PEF, onto a white surface, creating a textured, shimmering effect.
Bio-based FR polyethylene furanoate granulate. Image: DITF

The Polymers and Fiber Composites research team at the German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) is developing flame-retardant (FR), bio-based polyethylene furanoate (PEF) fibers using phosphorous compounds. 

The research team aims to covalently bond the flame retardant to the PEF polymer. This is crucial for long-term fire protection of the fibers because of their small diameter and high specific surface area. The scientists also wanted to find the lowest concentration of fire retardant that still worked well, settling on 5 grams of phosphorus compounds per 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) of polymer.  

A fine, translucent yarn made of bio-based FR PEF held taught at both ends but unwound in the middle to show the fibers, set against a dark background.
Polyethylene furanoate yarn. Image: DITF

After spinning fibers, the DITF scientists created knitted fabrics and conducted fire tests compared to a control that did not contain the flame-retardant additive. The FR version showed significantly reduced flammability compared to the control. 

This work has potential applications in building materials, home and auto upholstery fabrics, and carpets. 

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