Development by Maes Mattress Ticking & Centexbel
West Flanders-based Maes Mattress Ticking launched 100% bio-based fabrics for mattresses with its M-Pure® line. The SME is a fine example of a textile company that has embraced the demand for more sustainable and bio-based products. CEO Aurélie Maes: ‘The vision of using natural raw materials such as cotton, hemp, wool... in weaving was always there. But the fire-resistant coating, mandatory in some countries, meant that the final product was not 100% natural. A few years ago, therefore, in collaboration with research centre Centexbel and with the support of VLAIO, we launched the search for a fire-resistant coating based on natural raw materials.’
The research took several years and led to the development of a 100% bio-based fire-retardant coating based on residual streams from the agri-food industry. Maes: ‘Of course, we cannot go into detail about the exact composition, because competition in the textile sector is sky-high. But with the development of this bio-based coating, we are giving textile producers worldwide the edge.’ The use of exclusively bio-based materials also makes recycling the mattresses much easier and ensures that raw materials are not wasted.
The collaboration between Centexbel and Maes Mattress Ticking is an example of how the results of a joint research project can lead to commercial success.
Initially, a VLAIO-supported joint research project was launched, with Centexbel researcher David De Smet leading the research into bio-based functionalisation, including flame retardancy.
Within the users’ group, companies had the opportunity to keep abreast of our progress and results, a path that Maes Mattress Ticking eagerly followed.
Recognising the importance of flame retardancy for their needs, an initial test was carried out and showed promising results. An application for a private research project was then submitted and approved by VLAIO. In partnership with Centexbel, and again with David's expertise, the product was carefully refined for its specific application: mattress ticking. This innovative product was launched under the name M-Pure®, with which Maes Mattress Ticking offers a non-chemical, bio-based FR treatment that complies with EN 597-1-2:2016 - Furniture - Assessment of ignitability of mattresses and upholstered bed bases - Part 1: Smouldering cigarette as ignition source - Part 2: Match flame equivalent
David De Smet in between Bart Desmet and Jan Vanslembrouck (MMT)
The case of Maes Mattress Ticking demonstrates the scope of innovative, bio-based ambitions within the textile industry
source: Press release b2be 14/01/2025
Today, Flemish Minister President Matthias Diependaele together with B2BE Facilitator and ILVO unveiled the latest growth statistics of the Flemish bioeconomy. These figures are compiled annually according to a European methodology in the ‘Flemish Bio-Economy Monitor’. Diependaele noted: ‘The bio-based economy in Flanders contributes to more than a third of the total added value of our regional industry, outperforming countries such as the Netherlands and Germany.’
The textile industry is also taking steps towards using renewable raw materials and circular processes. According to sector federation Fedustria, which represents the textile and wood industry, and collective research centre Centexbel, ‘thanks to extensive research, the Flemish textile sector is evolving into a high-tech industry producing sustainable textile products with significant added value.’
This information was shared during a press conference at Maes Mattress Ticking, a textile SME based in West Flanders.
CEO Aurélie Maes said, ‘Our proprietary fire-resistant coating on an entirely biological basis is the final step towards an all-natural end product. This unique selling proposition strengthens our competitive position on the international stage.’
Over one-third of added value is bio-based
In 2021, the Flemish bioeconomy created a total of 18 billion euros in added value. Thus, the total bio-based economy continues to grow up to three times faster than the traditional physical economy. As a result, in 2021, 34% of the added value of the traditional physical economy was created in a bio-based way. This share continues to increase.
The increasing use of bio-based raw materials is also increasing value added in most sectors.
The textile industry is evolving into an advanced, bio-based sector.
Kris Van Peteghem of Fedustria (Belgian federation of the textile, wood and furniture industry):
In our sector, there is increasing awareness among manufacturers and consumers. Companies are also feeling pressure from policy, such as mandatory reporting around sustainability. This paves the way to the increasing use of bio-based raw materials. Specifically in the textile industry, there is a great heterogeneity of products and processes (carpet, clothing, technical textiles...), which makes it difficult to interpret the monitor figures unambiguously.
Myriam Vanneste, R&D manager at Centexbel:
The monitor figures are consistent with trends in the research projects we facilitate. The number of research projects on implementation of bio-based raw materials is rising significantly. The use of interesting fibre crops such as hemp and flax is also on the rise. The focus on circular and sustainable raw materials, together with high-tech innovations are helping the Flemish textile sector secure their place on the international market.
The high degree of specialisation of the Flemish textile sector is reflected in the figures. The number of people employed in the Flemish textile sector is high compared to those employed in that sector in the EU.
How can we help you?
Do you also have a question about the application of bio-based raw materials or additives with excellent performance?
Contact David De Smet, Brecht Demedts or Myriam Vanneste.