Hof University congratulates the Fraunhofer Application Center for Textile Fiber Ceramics TFK on the Münchberg campus and all partners involved on the award of the Seifriz Transfer Prize 2026 in the field of “Craftsmanship and Science” for the “BakeTex” research project. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding achievements in transferring research into operational practice and underscores the importance of application-oriented scientific collaboration.
The “BakeTex” project was developed jointly by the Fraunhofer Center for High Temperature Lightweight Construction HTL, in particular by the Application Center for Textile Fiber Ceramics TFK in Münchberg, together with Fickenschers Backhaus GmbH and Wilhelm Zuleeg GmbH. Under the project management of Eva Paulack, the research team pursued the goal of developing a textile and resource-saving alternative to conventional coated baking foils and metal baking trays.
PFAS-free textile baking mat as an alternative to coated materials
Many bakeries currently use coated baking paper or PTFE-containing foils, the use of which is increasingly viewed critically due to so-called “forever chemicals” and their material and energy consumption. The “BakeTex” project addresses this issue by combining textile materials with high temperature resistance, food safety, and durability. The baking mat developed is washable and can be reused as often as desired, thus contributing to waste reduction. At the same time, its low weight allows the baking chamber to heat up more quickly, which has a positive effect on energy consumption during the baking process.
Successful technology transfer between craftsmanship and science
The innovative concept combines traditional baking craftsmanship with modern materials and textile research and exemplifies how practical research can provide sustainable impetus for small and medium-sized enterprises. “Innovation is not the opposite of tradition, but its consistent further development,” emphasizes Andreas Fickenscher, managing director of Fickenschers Backhaus GmbH, with regard to the close cooperation between craftsmanship and science.
Recognition by Hof University
Hof University of Applied Sciences also emphasizes the significance of the project’s success. University President Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann explains:
I would like to congratulate everyone involved on this award. The BakeTex project impressively demonstrates how excellent research, regional commitment, and successful technology transfer can go hand in hand. Such collaborations are a central component of our profile as a research-strong university.”
Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann, University President
Fraunhofer Application Center for Textile Fiber Ceramics as part of Hof University
The Fraunhofer Application Center for Textile Fiber Ceramics is a joint competence center of the Fraunhofer Society and Hof University of Applied Sciences. It brings together expertise in the transfer of textile processing technologies to new, innovative materials and exemplifies the close integration of academic research and industrial application on the Münchberg campus. The “BakeTex” project was funded by the Bavarian Research Foundation.
