Sustainable Technical Textiles for Professional Applications
If you are looking for technical textiles for industrial, agricultural or construction applications, Zwartz develops and manufactures sustainable technical textiles made from natural fibres — entirely performance‑ and reliability‑driven. Since 1835 we combine craftsmanship with modern production techniques in our own weaving mill in Oldenzaal, the Netherlands.
Our fabrics are fully bio‑based, free of synthetic fibres or microplastics. We supply bespoke solutions for a wide range of sectors, with dependable delivery times and direct contact with specialists.
What do we mean by “sustainable technical textile”?
Sustainability in technical textile means considering the entire chain: from raw material to processing to end‑of‑life. For industrial applications this means the textile performs over time, is produced efficiently and poses minimal burden at the end of its life. At Zwartz we use only natural, renewable fibres that are biodegradable and do not generate microplastics.
Production with natural fibres
Zwartz works with jute, hemp, cotton, linen, TENCEL™ and recycled fibres. The fabrics are woven in‑house, ensuring consistent quality and production flexibility. By adjusting variables in the process, we produce textiles with properties tailored to the application:
Weave constructions: weights from 70 to 950 g/m²
Width: up to 535 cm
Finishes: water‑repellent or antibacterial coatings, odour treatment, colouration
Application areas for sustainable technical textiles
Our textiles are used across multiple sectors. Some examples include:
Construction & Geotextiles
Jute geotextile is suitable for stabilisation, drainage or erosion control in temporary projects such as dike reinforcement. It fully decomposes in the soil – no residual waste or disposal cost.
Agriculture & Horticulture
Woven sheets for ground cover retain moisture, suppress weeds and protect crops against adverse weather. Their biodegradability prevents additional waste streams.
Industry & Laundries
Industrial cloths for cleaning, pressing, covering or machine protection. Suitable for heavy‑duty use and available in client‑specific formats.
Packaging & Logistics
Breathable covers and compostable protective layers for storage and transport. An alternative to synthetic packaging that retains flexibility and strength.
Other applications
The textile is also used in various other sectors. Our adjustable properties enable broad applicability.
Biodegradable for circular applications
For applications where recovery is not feasible, biodegradable textiles provide a solution. They break down into water, CO₂ and biomass under suitable conditions such as contact with moisture or microorganisms. Depending on the application materials can be reinforced by lamination or coatings, so biodegradability is combined with properties like water shedding. This is relevant for root protection in agriculture, temporary cover at infrastructure projects or compostable packaging solutions.
Production and Environmental Impact
Production takes place in‑house in Oldenzaal, so we maintain full control over quality and process. We focus on energy and water use reduction and limit chemical processing. Local production means shorter delivery routes, lower transport cost and reduced environmental impact. This makes our fabrics suitable for companies that must meet ecological criteria or CSR goals.
Working with Zwartz
With more than 190 years of experience, Zwartz combines material and application knowledge with modern technology. We work closely during the development phase. By listening carefully to requirements and conducting precise calculations, we create solutions tailored to the specific application.
We maintain a large stock of standard products available for immediate delivery. For bespoke solutions lead‑times depend on design and volume. We actively provide advice on the correct fibre, structure and finish.
FAQ
What does “sustainable” mean for Zwartz technical textiles?
Naturally produced in the Netherlands, free from synthetic fibres or microplastics, and often biodegradable. It addresses the whole chain: raw material, processing and disposal.
Is natural technical textile suitable for industrial use?
Yes. With the correct weave structure and finish the fabrics deliver excellent functional properties, such as water‑repellency or mechanical reinforcement.
Which sectors does Zwartz supply sustainable technical textiles for?
Construction, agriculture, laundries, packaging, transport, industry and various other sectors. The adaptable properties enable wide applicability.
Does Zwartz also deliver bespoke solutions?
Yes. We supply textiles tailored for material, size, finish and application. Through close collaboration during development we create solutions that precisely match your needs.
How fast can Zwartz deliver?
Many products are available for immediate delivery from stock. For bespoke solutions lead‑times depend on design and volume.
