Avantium N.V., a leading company in renewable and circular polymer materials, have collaborated with a consortium of textile innovators, including Auping, Muller Textiles, ANTEX and Monosuisse, to develop a PEF (polyethylene furanoate)-based spacer fabric, a key component in Auping mattresses.

Avantium, Auping, Muller Textiles, ANTEX and Monosuisse have jointly develop PEF-based spacer fabric for Auping mattresses.

PEF-based spacer fabric

PEF is a plant-based, fully circular polymer material while spacer fabric is an innovative material known for its breathability, cushioning, and versatility.

Unlike traditional 2D fabrics, spacer fabric is constructed by joining two separate layers of fabric with monofilaments, creating a breathable 3D "microclimate" between the layers.

This unique structure allows heat and vapor to escape from the body while enabling cool air to circulate through the permeable layer, ensuring optimal temperature control and maximum air circulation.

Collaboration with textile innovators

Over the course of 2024, Auping has been working closely with Muller Textiles. Muller Textiles has been developing and supplying PEF-based spacer fabric, while ANTEX and Monosuisse have supplied yarns to Muller Textiles.

The consortium has completed the initial proof of concept study and is now progressing towards prototype development. Simultaneously, efforts are being directed towards scaling up the development and production process.

“This partnership underscores our collective commitment to minimizing the environmental footprint of textile production. By harnessing Avantium's innovative technology and the combined expertise of our partners, we can make meaningful progress towards a more sustainable textile industry,” said Pavan Kumar Manvi, Technical Application Manager at Avantium.