The Italian engineering group Maire has announced a strategic expansion in the sustainable textile sector through its subsidiary Nextchem. The company introduced NX Conser PolyFlexTM, a new technology designed to produce polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), a key polymer used in the manufacturing of spandex fibers.
Developed by Nextchem’s technology licensor CONSER, the solution strengthens the company’s portfolio of advanced chemical processes and biodegradable plastic technologies. PTMEG is an essential raw material for elastomeric fibers widely used in the textile industry, particularly in sportswear and technical fabrics. Global demand for elastomeric textiles has grown steadily in recent years, driven by the expansion of performance apparel markets and the increasing adoption of flexible fibers in protective clothing and industrial textiles.
NX Conser PolyFlexTM allows the production of PTMEG from both conventional petrochemical feedstock and bio-based tetrahydrofuran (THF), enabling manufacturers to integrate renewable raw materials into existing supply chains. The process therefore supports the gradual decarbonization of textile manufacturing, a sector responsible for approximately 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions according to international environmental assessments.
NXPand platform and bio-based chemical innovation
The PolyFlex technology is part of the newly launched NXPandTM suite, a platform through which Nextchem aims to enter the sustainable textile innovation market. The initiative reflects the growing importance of low-carbon chemical intermediates for fiber production, particularly as global brands accelerate climate commitments and circular economy strategies.
Spandex fibers produced from PTMEG are valued for their exceptional elasticity, durability and resistance to mechanical and thermal stress. These properties make them a fundamental component of high-performance fabrics used in sectors experiencing strong global growth, including athletic wear, outdoor equipment and technical uniforms.
Industry forecasts suggest that the global spandex market could surpass 12 billion dollars by the end of the decade, supported by annual growth rates between 6% and 8%. Integrating bio-based feedstocks into PTMEG production could therefore play a significant role in reducing lifecycle emissions associated with synthetic fibers.
International collaboration and industrial applications
The development of the new technology builds on Nextchem’s collaboration with Shanghai Diyang Chemical Technology Co. Ltd, a Chinese company specialized in catalysts and fine chemical solutions. The partnership also covers technologies for specialty intermediates as well as solvents used in industrial, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.
Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of Nextchem, emphasized the strategic relevance of the innovation, stating: “NX Conser PolyFlexTM represents a major step forward in expanding our sustainable technology portfolio. It reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that support the high-performance textile industry and unlock new opportunities for the group in fast-growing segments”.
By combining chemical engineering expertise with bio-based raw materials, Nextchem aims to position itself within a rapidly evolving industrial landscape where sustainability, performance and supply chain resilience are becoming critical drivers of competitiveness in the global textile economy.
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