Braskem, the largest producer of polyolefins in the Americas and a global pioneer in the industrial-scale production of biopolymers, has joined forces with Fitesa, one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of nonwoven fabrics, to announce a significant step forward in the production of sustainable nonwoven materials. The two companies are collaborating to integrate Braskem’s I’m green™ bio-based high-density polyethylene (HDPE) into nonwoven applications, specifically targeting the Spunbond segment of the hygiene and personal care markets.
Fitesa has made history as the first company to commercially produce Spunbond nonwovens using Braskem’s bio-based polyethylene, marking a milestone in sustainable innovation. This development is the result of over a decade of research, product refinement, and market integration of bio-based polymers by Braskem, particularly in hygiene-focused applications. Now, with a new bio-PE grade tailored for nonwoven processes, the two companies are scaling up production with a view to meet global demand through a reliable, industrial-scale supply chain.
The next-generation bio-based HDPE, part of Braskem’s I’m green™ portfolio, is made from renewable sugarcane-derived bioethanol. This innovative feedstock not only ensures reduced greenhouse gas emissions, but also contributes to a negative carbon footprint, positioning the material as a high-impact solution in the global movement toward carbon neutrality.
The material has been specifically engineered for the Spunbond process, which is widely used in the production of hygiene, medical, and filtration products. The HDPE grade offers outstanding process performance, characterized by enhanced spinning stability, optimal melting behavior, and improved filament resistance. These advantages contribute to higher productivity, greater product uniformity, and minimized waste across the manufacturing process.
Key Technical and Environmental Advantages
Braskem’s I’m green™ bio-based HDPE for nonwovens delivers a robust suite of performance and environmental benefits:
- Optimized Melting and Vicat Softening Temperatures: These thermal properties support the spinning of stronger, more resilient filaments, enhancing the structural integrity of the final nonwoven fabric.
- Renewable Feedstock: Produced from bioethanol derived from sugarcane, this PE grade significantly reduces the carbon footprint of finished goods.
- High-Speed Process Optimization: Engineered for high-throughput nonwoven production lines, the material enhances process reliability and reduces machine downtime.
- Comparable Performance to Conventional PE: Despite its bio-based origin, the HDPE performs equivalently to traditional fossil-based polyethylene in terms of strength, durability, and processing ease.
- Recyclability: Fully compatible with existing polyethylene recycling streams, supporting circular economy initiatives.
- Certified Bio-Based Content: The material’s renewable content is measurable, traceable, and compliant with industry standards.
- Industrial Scalability: Backed by Braskem and Fitesa’s global manufacturing networks, the material is positioned to meet growing demand at commercial scale.
Strategic Collaboration for a Greener Future
“We are excited to introduce our next-generation I’m green™ bio-based HDPE product to the market,” said Gustavo Lombardi, Braskem’s Biopolymers Business Development Director. “This product represents a significant advancement in Braskem’s bio-based portfolio for nonwoven applications, aligning with our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and market-driven goals. Additionally, it supports the hygiene industry’s efforts to decarbonize and tackle climate change by reducing the final product’s carbon footprint without compromising quality or performance.”
Ricardo Fasolo, Vice President for the US & Canada at Fitesa, echoed the importance of the partnership: “We are pleased to collaborate with Braskem to advance the bio-polyethylene solution for Spunbond processes. As pioneers in the development and commercialization of bio-based Spunbond fabrics, we are familiar with the challenges and the benefits of such materials and remain committed to pushing forward more sustainable solutions without compromising the quality and performance of our products. Braskem and Fitesa are paving the way for a more sustainable future in the nonwoven industry.”
A Decade of Bio-Based Innovation
Braskem’s I’m green™ brand has become synonymous with innovation in bioplastics. Over the past ten years, the company has steadily built its product line to meet the diverse demands of industries seeking to reduce their environmental impact. From packaging to automotive components, and now to hygiene-focused nonwoven applications, I’m green™ bio-based materials are playing an increasingly central role in global decarbonization strategies.
Fitesa, for its part, has long prioritized sustainability in its product development efforts. The company was an early adopter of renewable and biodegradable materials and has led the industry in integrating green technologies into commercial-scale production. By adopting Braskem’s latest bio-PE innovations, Fitesa is reinforcing its leadership in the sustainable nonwovens sector.
Industry Impact and Market Outlook
The partnership between Braskem and Fitesa arrives at a time when the global nonwovens industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. Single-use hygiene products, such as diapers and sanitary wipes, have faced scrutiny over their reliance on fossil-based plastics. By offering a renewable, high-performance alternative, Braskem and Fitesa aim to address these concerns while maintaining the functionality and comfort expected by consumers.
The two companies will showcase their collaborative innovations at IDEA 2025, one of the leading global events for the nonwoven fabrics industry, scheduled to take place in Miami, Florida, from April 29 to May 1. Fitesa will exhibit its nonwoven materials incorporating Braskem’s I’m green™ bio-HDPE at Booth 901.
Toward a Circular and Carbon-Neutral Future
This collaboration represents more than just a new product launch—it is a glimpse into the future of sustainable materials. By combining Braskem’s technical expertise in biopolymer production with Fitesa’s leadership in nonwoven fabric manufacturing, the partnership sets a precedent for innovation and responsibility in the materials industry.
As global demand for environmentally friendly materials continues to rise, companies like Braskem and Fitesa are demonstrating that commercial success and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they are working together to build a supply chain that is not only reliable and efficient but also aligned with the principles of the circular economy and carbon neutrality.
This announcement signals a major step forward in the journey toward a more sustainable, low-carbon future for the hygiene and nonwovens industry—a future where renewable resources, advanced processing technologies, and strategic collaboration come together to redefine what’s possible.
