Lignin coatings enhance the durability of geotextiles made from eco-friendly natural fibers. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) have developed a bio-based protective coating that extends the lifespan of these textiles, making them suitable for various civil engineering applications. This lignin-based coating is biodegradable, preventing microplastic pollution in the soil. Lignin, a byproduct of paper production, is blended with softer biopolymers to create a durable, thermoplastic material for coating yarns and textile surfaces. Soil burial tests showed that textiles with lignin coatings can last significantly longer, with coatings remaining intact for over 160 days in outdoor conditions. These coated textiles offer sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials, reducing the carbon footprint and reliance on petroleum-based products. The research, supported by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Food, Rural Areas, and Consumer Protection, aims to establish lignin as a valuable material in the textile industry.

Read the original press release here.