FENC formed a collaboration with Lululemon, an international athletic apparel brand, and OceanSafe, a polymer science company. The partnership is responsible for the birth of naNea, a next-generation functional polyester which has been modified to be biodegradable, a green textile solution that balances environmental responsibilities and product performance. It is inherently biodegradable as this characteristic is achieved through changes at the molecular level instead of additives, making naNea a circular material. Supply chain partners do not need to cross high technological thresholds to produce naNea as the entire process can be achieved using existing PET manufacturing equipment.

To manufacture naNea, FENC adapted to a set of processing conditions different than that for the production of conventional PET, accommodating its biodegradability with a low-temperature spinning process, which delivers consistent yarn tenacity and production flow. After completing the trial for low-temperature false-twist texturing with partners such as Everest Textile Co., Ltd. and Taiwan TAFFETA Fabric Co., Ltd., FENC successfully developed multiple fine denier yarns in 2025. With supple texture and consistent tenacity, as well as moisture absorption and regain rates approximately twice those of typical polyester, naNea is the answer to brand customers’ high standards for performance sportswear materials.

FENC was a critical link during the collaboration, facilitating technological integration and connecting the upstream raw material suppliers with the downstream brand customers. Bolstered by its expertise in material development and yarn spinning technologies and the trust that has been fostered through long-term partnerships with international brands, FENC transformed raw materials from OceanSafe into scalable high-performance yarns. During the process, FENC involved downstream partners in weaving and garment production and made naNea an official supply chain component of major brands. The innovation offers a sustainable alternative in material choices while expanding the application of value-added green textiles.