Avantium Partners with Casa da Malha and Lacatoni to Develop PEF-Based Textile Prototypes

Collaboration showcases plant-based releaf® polymer in sportswear prototypes at Milano Unica 2026

Avantium N.V., a developer of renewable and circular polymer materials, has partnered with Casa da Malha and Lacatoni to develop and present textile prototypes made with PEF (polyethylene furanoate), Avantium's plant-based, high-performance polymer branded as releaf®.

The collaboration brings together Avantium's renewable polymer technology, Casa da Malha's expertise in circular knitted fabrics and textile innovation, and Lacatoni's experience in sportswear and performance apparel. According to the companies, the initiative has produced a range of textile prototypes that will be presented to industry stakeholders and consumers to demonstrate the potential of PEF in textile applications.

Exploring PEF for Textile Applications

PEF is a plant-based, recyclable alternative to conventional polyester manufactured from renewable feedstocks. The material offers a combination of sustainability and performance characteristics, including strong mechanical properties, making it suitable for a variety of textile applications.

Casa da Malha, based in Portugal, specialises in premium circular knitted fabrics and advanced textile solutions. The company stated that it continues to explore next-generation fibres and materials aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of textile products.

Lacatoni, also based in Portugal, designs and manufactures technical apparel, teamwear and performance clothing for a range of sports. The company supplies sports clubs, federations and teams in Portugal and international markets.

Prototype Sportswear Presented at Milano Unica

As part of the collaboration, the partners developed a series of textile and sportswear prototypes using PEF-based yarns and fabrics.

One of the first outcomes is a prototype sports shirt created by Casa da Malha for Lacatoni, demonstrating the application of plant-based, recyclable PEF in performance apparel. The prototype is being showcased at Milano Unica in Milan from 7–9 July 2026, alongside a broader collection of textile prototypes that will be presented to brands, manufacturers, industry stakeholders and consumers.

Industry Representatives Comment

Filipa Costa, Innovation & Sustainability Director of Casa da Malha, said:

"This project allows us to work with a novel polymer and to translate its properties into knitted fabric constructions that meet the quality and performance standards expected by apparel brands. We are proud to contribute our textile expertise to this important step in material development."

Belisa Rodrigues, CEO of Lacatoni, added:

"Our customers increasingly expect sportswear to combine performance with responsible material choices. Through these prototypes, we can evaluate how next-generation materials such as PEF perform in real apparel applications and help inspire the market with new possibilities for sustainable sportswear."

Laleh Maleki, Business Development Manager at Avantium, said:

"We are excited to explore the potential of PEF in textiles together with leading partners across the value chain. Collaborations like this help accelerate the development of new, high-performance applications for renewable materials and bring them closer to commercial adoption."