Introducing naNea
naNea is a novel synthetic textile material designed to replace conventional polyester.
naNea performs like conventional PET, but its novel polymer structure renders biodegradability* in the open environment. naNea neither emits persistent microplastics*, nor does it contain antimony or other harmful substances*.
naNea is the world’s first and only synthetic textile material Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold, affirming its alignment with the principles of the circular economy. As such, it is safe for the technical and biological cycle.
At end of life, naNea is recyclable along with PET. naNea is available as fibers, fiber yarns and filament yarns.
Why?
It’s about time for a change!
More than 50% of textile fibers manufactured globally today are conventional polyester (McKinsey, 2023) - a material that takes several centuries to decompose naturally in the environment.
Furthermore, conventional polyester stands as a major contributor to microplastics pollution. According to the European Environment Agency (2022), synthetic fibers, notably polyester, account for over 30% of the microplastics found in the world's oceans.
Yet, polyester carries health-related risks: Textile items made from polyester often contain harmful substances like carcinogenic antimony trioxide (Indian Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 2009)
Further, the short lifespan of many textile products and inappropriate end of life scenarios produce vast amounts of textile waste that drastically pollute the environment (McKinsey, 2023).
naNea was designed to effectively tackle the environmental and health-related issues associated with conventional polyester.
Biodegradability
naNea degrades down completely to its building blocks. In marine water, naNea biodegrades by >93% within 99 days (according to ASTM D6691-17) and can therefore be considered as non-persistent*.
Notably, its biodegradation properties are not powered by additive or enzyme technology. naNea's biodegradability is the result of its novel polymer structure. This structure allows the material to break down in ocean water, in soil and in anaerobic landfill environments*.
Environment & Health
Using naNea as a polyester replacment is an environmentally conscious choice for various reasons.
First, it is safe for the oceans: It does neither emit persistent microplastics, nor does it contain harmful substances like toxicants or heavy metals*. These properties were tested and certified by various renowned labs.
Second, it is recyclable along with PET waste streams*.
Third, naNea has undergone ecotoxicological testing conducted by Hohenstein, following DIN EN ISO 20079:2006-12 and additionally according to OECD 202. The results from both tests have confirmed naNea to be non eco-toxic*.
Drop-in Technology
Transitioning to naNea in manufacturing processes is easy - and it is market-ready and scalable today. In other words, naNea is a true drop-in technology that does not require new manufacturing equipment throughout the entire value chain.
Advanced Technical Properties
naNea is more than just a replacement for conventional polyester. It is a versatile innovation, providing a range of highly advantageous technical properties:
First, naNea offers the same exceptional durability and performance as conventional PET. naNea is available as staple fibers, fiber yarn and filament yarn.
Second, it is inherently flame-retardant*.
Ultimately, naNea provides a soft, comfortable hand-feel, and is washable at 60°C*.
Industry Applications
Considering its versatile technical properties, naNea is an excellent replacement wherever conventional polyester is used today. naNea an ideal choice for textile products where resilience and durability are paramount:
- Sportswear
- Outdoor
- Functional apparel
- Home textiles
- Technical applications
- Automotive
Questions?
Download the naNea fact sheet
or visit our FAQ's
*We are happy to provide relevant documents for validation upon request.