INDEX Geneva – Focus on nonwovens

INDEX in Geneva is one of the world's most important trade fairs for nonwovens. The event is aimed at manufacturers, machine builders, raw material suppliers and user industries that rely on technical textiles and innovative flat materials. As an international trade fair location, Geneva offers the right infrastructure for an industry that is strongly globalised and is growing continuously. Nonwovens and nonwoven fabrics have become indispensable in numerous areas of everyday life and industry. Unlike woven textiles, they are not manufactured using traditional weaving or knitting processes, but through mechanical, thermal or chemical bonding of fibres. These manufacturing processes enable flexible material properties that can be precisely tailored to the respective area of application.

Nonwovens as a versatile material

Nonwovens are characterised by their low weight, adaptability and functionality. They are used in hygiene products, medical protective materials, automotive components and construction applications. INDEX in Geneva reflects this diversity and showcases both end products and production equipment. Typical exhibition areas include:

  • Hygiene and medical products
  • Technical textiles for industry
  • Filtration materials
  • Automotive and construction applications
  • Raw materials and fibre technologies
Nonwovens are particularly important in the field of hygiene products. Nappies, medical masks and surgical drapes are based on highly developed nonwovens with specific properties such as breathability, liquid absorption and barrier effect.

Nonwovens in industry and technology

Nonwovens are playing an increasingly important role in technical applications. In the automotive industry, they are used for insulation, filters, and interior trim. In construction, they serve as separating and protective layers in civil engineering or as components of modern insulation materials. INDEX shows how production processes are evolving. Modern systems enable high production speeds while maintaining precise quality control. Digitalisation and automation are also key topics in this industry. Among other things, the following topics will be discussed:

  • Increasing efficiency in nonwoven production
  • Resource-saving processes
  • Recycling concepts for nonwovens
  • New fibre composites and material combinations
These topics illustrate that nonwovens are being further developed not only functionally, but also ecologically.

Sustainability and circular economy

The industry faces the challenge of combining sustainability and performance. Raw material availability, energy consumption and recyclability are key aspects. INDEX in Geneva offers a forum for presenting innovative solutions in the field of circular economy. Bio-based fibres, recycled plastics and new bonding technologies are increasingly being used. At the same time, companies are developing strategies to reduce production waste. The trade fair shows how technical textiles can be integrated into a more sustainable production system.

Geneva as an international meeting place

Geneva is an international hub with great economic and logistical significance. Its location in the heart of Europe makes it easy for exhibitors and visitors from different regions to attend. INDEX benefits from this accessibility and attracts trade visitors from Europe, North America and Asia. The exhibition centre in Geneva offers sufficient space for large-format machines and complete production lines. Demonstrations and technical discussions are an essential part of the trade fair, especially in the nonwovens sector.

Market structure and industry development

Demand for nonwovens has risen steadily in recent years. This is driven by demographic developments, increasing hygiene requirements and growing industries such as electromobility and renewable energies. INDEX reflects this market dynamic. Manufacturers , machine manufacturers and raw material suppliers meet buyers and developers who are looking for specific solutions. The focus is not only on the product, but the entire value chain – from the fibre to the finished end product.

Positioning in the trade fair calendar

INDEX occupies a clear position in the international trade fair calendar. It is not a general textile trade fair, but focuses exclusively on nonwovens. This specialisation creates an environment in which technical details and industry-specific innovations take centre stage. INDEX in Geneva combines nonwovens with global industry expertise. The trade fair offers a structured overview of materials, production processes and market trends. Geneva is becoming an international meeting place for companies operating in a highly specialised but fast-growing segment of the textile industry.

Further information can be found on the organiser's website: www.indexnonwovens.com