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INNOVATIVE HORIZONS

The Innovation Area explores cutting-edge textile materials and technologies

In its 42nd edition, Milano Unica places innovation at the heart of the Innovation Area, curated by TexClubTec, the technical textiles division of Confindustria Moda.

 

The central theme, "Spazio Tessile: Innovative Horizons," showcases advanced materials and processes that are redefining the potential of technical textiles across multiple sectors -- from sportswear to personal protection, from medical applications to the clothing of the future.

 

The Area brings together products and solutions from leading technical textile companies, offering a comprehensive overview of innovations in materials, accessories, and production processes. Visitors will discover the latest innovations: smart yarns and fabrics, high-tech padding, functional accessories, and digital tools for design and manufacturing, presenting a complete picture of the possibilities offered by state-of-the-art technologies in technical textiles.

 

Innovative Yarns and Structures

  • Yarns coated with thermoplastic polymers, developed without solvents or water
  • High-performance, 100% recyclable yarns with enhanced grip for technical apparel
  • Yarn solutions for underwear, sportswear, outdoor wear, and technical accessories
  • Ultra-light three-dimensional structures with multidirectional elasticity and aerodynamics
  • Fabrics with ceramic coating and anti-abrasion properties

 

Padding and Insulation Materials

  • Natural and technical padding, lightweight, warm, and flexible
  • Blends of natural and technical fibers
  • Recycled and bio-based materials
  • Insulation solutions without traditional quilting
  • Padding designed for easy lamination with outer fabrics

 

Technical Fabrics and Smart Textiles

  • High-performance fabrics with retroreflective properties
  • Ultra-light materials with exceptional mechanical strength 
  • Self-regenerating and adaptive fabrics for extreme environments
  • Smart fibers for thermal regulation, breathability, and comfort
  • Functional treatments: water-repellent, antibacterial, heat retention, wind and UV protection

 

Digital Solutions and Innovative Processes

  • Digital platforms for recycling and material sustainability
  • Advanced sorting systems with visible and infrared sensors
  • Virtual design tools for product customization
  • Digital solutions for production monitoring, quality control, and material simulation
  • Industry 5.0 applications leveraging AI, machine learning, and predictive maintenance

 

Technical Accessories

  • Resistant, flexible, water-repellent, and bio-based zippers
  • Stainless steel and retroreflective zippers
  • Elastic tapes and fine fabrics, customizable with prints, jacquard, or 3D silicone
  • Antibacterial treatments, nanotechnology, and special finishes
  • Applications for sportswear, lingerie, technical clothing, and footwear

 

Towards the Future of Technical Textiles

The adoption of innovative materials, functional accessories, and digital processes is enabling the development of:

  • Smart and reactive textiles with adaptive performance
  • Sustainable and traceable materials
  • Modular and customizable products
  • Virtual design tools and product configurators
  • High-performance technical products for extreme, professional, and lifestyle applications

 

TexClubTec, the technical textiles division of Confindustria Moda, is leading this transformation by promoting collaboration among companies, research centers, and institutions for a future of textiles built on innovation, sustainability, and personalization.