The Paul Schlack Prize for 2023 was awarded to Henriette Grellmann for her innovative dissertation on textile-based actuator and sensor structures. She convinced the jury with the title: “Technological development of textile-based actuator and sensor structures for complex deformable adaptive fiber-elastomer composites”. Tim Höhnemann received the 2nd honorary prize for his work on generating defined cross-sectional geometry coarse fibers from polymer melt. His dissertation entitled: “Generation of monofilaments with defined cross sectional shape from polymer melt – Correlation of die layout, polymer morphology and process parameters with the bending behavior”, was selected by the expert jury.

The Young Scientist Award, powered by Lenzing AG, recognized Nina Sirén and Clara Davis for their outstanding research on fiber-related topics. “Comparing Modal with Recycled Modal”, is the title of the dissertation by Nina Sirén, student at Aalto University. The study compares pre-consumer modal with modal recycled using the “Ioncell” process. It examines production methods and estimated resource consumption as well as mechanical properties, namely orientation, tensile strength, elongation and abrasion. Clara Davis impressed with the paper titled: “Advanced Overcoming Bacterial Nanocellulose for New Applications”. This study explores the potential of using bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as a tree-free feedstock for regenerated cellulose fibers. By optimizing production conditions, purification methods, and dissolution/regeneration processes, the study addresses the challenges and highlights the unique properties of BNC with the goal of promoting its use as sustainable bio-based fibers in the textile industry.

Looking ahead, the Dornbirn GFC remains focused on sustainability, circular economy, and recycling, and preparations are already underway for the 63rd Dornbirn GFC in 2024. The event will continue to explore fiber innovation, with an emphasis on themes such as circular economy, recycling, sustainability, nonwovens, and technical textiles.The congress will take place in Dornbirn at the Kulturhaus from September 11th to 13th, 2024.