From three layers to two: a new bio-based approach to performance textiles
Performance textiles have traditionally forced brands to navigate trade-offs between technical performance, complex material constructions and the transition to more sustainable materials. A new material development brings together complementary bio-based technologies to explore another way forward. By eliminating the need for a separate adhesive layer, the concept opens up new possibilities for simpler, more sustainable performance textile constructions.
The concept combines NovaPolyBIO, a 100% bio-based PEF (polyethylene furanoate) textile platform, with BrightBio®, the bio-based functional lamination technology developed by Finnish green-tech company Brightplus. The new material concept will be presented at Performance Days in Munich on 13–14 October 2026.
At the heart of the development is a simpler material construction. The BrightBio film is laminated directly onto the NovaPolyBIO textile, providing both the functional layer and bond without the need for a separate adhesive layer. This simplifies the construction from a conventional three-layer structure to two functional layers.
The development brings renewable material innovation to both the textile substrate and its functional layer, while keeping the demanding functional and aesthetic requirements of performance textiles at the centre.
Rather than replacing only one component of a conventional textile construction, the concept brings together complementary technologies across different layers of the material. This approach offers new possibilities for textile manufacturers and brands seeking to simplify material constructions while increasing the use of renewable materials in high-performance applications.
Performance without compromise
BrightBio® is a next-generation bio-based coating technology developed to provide an alternative to conventional fossil-based functional textile coatings while maintaining the performance required for demanding applications.
BrightBio uses certified renewable raw materials, including non-edible biomass side streams and captured CO₂. The technology is designed as a drop-in solution compatible with existing textile production processes, enabling manufacturers to adopt the technology without major changes to their production lines.
- Certified renewable raw materials, including non-edible biomass side streams and captured CO₂
- No intentionally added PFAS
- Drop-in on existing textile production lines
- Mono-material construction, polyester to polyester recyclable
Sustainability should not mean compromising on performance. The textile industry needs materials that can move away from fossil-based materials and harmful substances while still delivering the durability, functionality and design freedom expected from high-performance products. This project demonstrates how complementary material technologies can help make that transition possible.
See the development at Performance Days 2026
The new material concept will make its debut at Performance Days in Munich on 13–14 October 2026 and will be showcased in the Innovation Corner.
Where visionary design meets next-generation material innovation.
A collaboration platform connecting Finland’s boldest designers with Brightplus’ breakthrough biomaterial, BrightBio®, to create desirable commercial products for a more sustainable future.
Nordic Design Lab was created because breakthrough materials only change the world when people can experience them through design, creativity and culture. Through collaborations with visionary designers, BrightBio® is transformed into products that inspire, challenge expectations and demonstrate what the future of materials can become.
Brightplus and BrightBio®
Brightplus is a Finnish green-tech company reshaping the future of materials with bio-based innovations. Its mission is to rid the world of toxic coatings.
BrightBio® is a next-generation bio-based coating engineered for functional textiles. It is designed to deliver high performance with sustainability and circularity, without compromising aesthetics, process compatibility or safety.
BrightBio uses certified renewable raw materials, including non-edible biomass side streams, and is designed for integration into existing textile production processes.
We invite you to meet us at Performance Days, 13–14 October 2026 in Munich, and explore what BrightBio could enable for your future products. The new material concept makes its debut in the Innovation Corner.
