The Institute of Materials Science (ifm) is kicking off 2026 with a strong presence at national and international trade events. In addition to established formats, the institute is also focusing on new initiatives—such as hosting an international conference in Hof for the first time. The focus is on current research topics such as recycling technologies, innovative fiber processing, and sustainable material solutions. The goal of the trade show appearances is to raise the profile of research, forge new partnerships, and further expand the transfer of knowledge into practical applications. In an interview, Alexandra Luft, head of the Innovative Textiles research group, discusses the plans.
The ifm frequently attends trade shows and events. Which events will these be in 2026?
“This year we’ve already been to the JEC in Paris, which focuses on composite materials. Next up is Techtextil in Frankfurt starting April 21, and of course we’ll be back at the Hof Nonwovens Days on November 4 and 5 with a booth and a presentation. In September, the Narrow Textile Conference (NTC) will take place for the first time on September 1 and 2 in Münchberg. As the organizer, the ifm is hosting the event together with TU Dresden and the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences.
; Photo: Hof University of Applied Sciences;
We will, of course, also be present at Contacta on September 23 and 24 and at the Entrepreneur Exchange on May 12 in Hof. And we’ll also be participating in other smaller trade conferences.”
Why is the institute represented at so many events? What do you hope to gain from this?
“We want to present our research activities through samples and exhibits, while finding new research partners and strengthening existing contacts. Furthermore, we aim to increase our visibility; we are actively engaged in research in Hof and Münchberg. Additionally, we plan to directly approach potential project partners who are among the exhibitors at the trade fair.
We’ve participated in these events before. However, the NTC in Münchberg has been revamped and aims to present tried-and-true elements with a fresh twist. This is how we plan to attract a broader, international audience to Hof.”
What new research findings do you plan to present? Will you also be giving presentations?
“We will be presenting several talks at the Narrow Textile Conference, as well as at the Nonwovens Days. Our research focuses on our recycling activities, such as circular needling, as well as the processing of natural and synthetic fibers. In the field of woven fabrics, we have new ideas that we’re also implementing on new equipment. At the Hof Nonwovens Days, we’ll present the first prototypes from the RecyTube project, which involves furniture concepts made from nonwoven tubes, such as a stool.”
Thank you very much for the interview!
