Braskem, the largest producer of polyolefins in the Americas and a global pioneer in industrial-scale biopolymer production, has announced a collaboration with Fitesa, a leading global manufacturer of nonwovens. The two companies are expanding the use of Braskem’s I’m green™ bio-based high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in Fitesa’s nonwoven products, specifically for Spunbond applications.

With more than a decade of experience integrating bio-based polymers into hygiene products, Braskem and Fitesa are advancing their global reach in the bicomponent nonwoven market. Their latest innovation—a next-generation bio-based HDPE—delivers improved processability and environmental benefits while maintaining the performance expected in hygiene industry applications.

Optimized for high-speed Spunbond manufacturing, the I’m green HDPE offers improved spinning stability and overall better processing performance. Made from sugarcane-derived bioethanol, the resin is both fully recyclable and features a measurable, traceable bio-based content. It helps reduce the carbon footprint of end products, aligning with sustainability goals across the hygiene supply chain.

Key benefits of the I’m green bio-based HDPE include:

•             Optimized melting and Vicat softening points, enabling stronger filament formation

•             Bio-based feedstock that supports reduced carbon emissions

•             Process stability in high-speed manufacturing environments

•             Durability and performance on par with traditional polyethylene

•             Compatibility with existing polyethylene recycling systems

•             Compliance with industry standards for traceability and bio-based content

•             A dependable supply chain with long-term scalability

“We are excited to introduce our next-generation I’m green bio-based HDPE to the nonwoven market,” said Gustavo Lombardi, Braskem’s biopolymers business development director. “This marks a significant step in our commitment to innovation and sustainability. Our material enables the hygiene industry to reduce its carbon footprint without sacrificing product quality or performance.”

Fitesa will feature products made with the I’m green HDPE at booth 901 during IDEA25, a premier global nonwovens event held in Miami, Florida, from April 29 to May 1.

“We are pleased to partner with Braskem to further the development of bio-based Spunbond solutions,” said Ricardo Fasolo, vice president for the U.S. and Canada at Fitesa. “As early adopters of bio-based Spunbond fabrics, we understand both the challenges and the benefits. This partnership reaffirms our commitment to delivering sustainable, high-quality solutions to the nonwovens industry.”

Together, Braskem and Fitesa are leading the way toward a more sustainable future in nonwoven materials.

Fitesa ranks among the world’s leading nonwoven manufacturers, specializing in advanced solutions for the hygiene and healthcare sectors. The company leverages a wide array of technologies—including Spunbond, Spunmelt, Meltblown, Carded, Airlaid, Fitesa Advantage, Spunlace, films, elastics, and composites—to deliver innovative, high-performance materials. Headquartered in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Fitesa operates 21 manufacturing facilities across 11 countries and employs more than 2,500 people worldwide. Its global footprint includes locations in Brazil, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Peru, Sweden, the United States, Thailand and China.