Marion Sterner
Head of R&D at Gruppo X di X Gruppo srl
Presentation Title:
Use of novel material in novel paper technology for achieving outstanding elongation properties in cross direction, and potential use for wipes
As sustainability targets tighten and regulations around single-use plastics continue to reshape the wipes industry, manufacturers are searching for fibre-based materials that can deliver the performance consumers expect without compromising environmental goals.
One of the biggest challenges has been achieving the strength, flexibility and durability traditionally associated with synthetic fibres. Could a new papermaking technology help bridge that gap?
At GO Wipes Europe 2026, delegates will hear from Marion Sterner, Head of R&D at Gruppo X di X Gruppo srl, and Jonas Karlsson, Technology Leader in R&D at Albany International, who will present an innovative paper technology designed to significantly improve the mechanical performance of paper for wipes applications.
A new approach to paper performance
Conventional stretch-enhancing papermaking processes primarily increase elongation in the machine direction (MD). Achieving comparable stretch in the cross direction (CD) has traditionally relied on long, highly refined and often costly virgin fibres.
The technology being presented at GO Wipes Europe takes a different approach.
Developed through the collaboration between Gruppo X di X Gruppo srl and Albany International, the process uses a highly engineered material alongside a purely mechanical process to achieve substantial cross-direction elongation across a wide range of fibre types and paper grades.
Pilot trials have demonstrated increases of 15% or more in CD elongation beyond the paper's natural capability. The technology can also be combined with existing MD stretch processes to create more balanced mechanical properties, opening up new possibilities for high-performance paper-based wipes and other fibre-based products.
Additional benefits observed during testing include:
"Bringing paper closer to synthetic performance"
Ahead of the conference, we spoke with Marion Sterner about what makes the development particularly exciting for the wipes sector.
"This novel technology allows paper to behave as synthetic raw materials from a mechanical point of view and to compete with non-sustainable materials for wipes. By imparting elongation properties, the TEA-value – the work a paper can do before breaking – increases dramatically without adding any chemistry."
As brands and manufacturers continue exploring alternatives to plastic-containing materials, innovations that improve the mechanical performance of paper could help accelerate the transition towards more sustainable wipes.
Sustainability continues to drive innovation
Asked why this work is especially relevant today, Sterner points to the industry's continued focus on environmentally friendly materials.
"Still, let's keep an eye on environmentally friendly materials."
That shift is also being reflected in customer demand.
According to Sterner, paper producers are increasingly looking at opportunities to enter the wipes market using renewable fibre-based materials.
"We see customers from the paper sector interested in our technology as they would like to approach the world of wipes with natural fiber based materials."
As manufacturers look to balance sustainability ambitions with product performance, technologies that enhance the capabilities of fibre-based materials are attracting growing interest.
Addressing tomorrow's industry challenges
Looking ahead, Sterner believes regulation and sustainability expectations will continue to shape innovation across the sector.
"To skip the bans on the use of plastics, to provide customers with a flushable/biodegradable product, to have an environmental positive image."
Developments that improve the performance of paper without additional chemistry could become an increasingly valuable part of the industry's response to these challenges.
Join the discussion at GO Wipes Europe 2026
GO Wipes Europe brings together the companies, technologies and experts shaping the future of wipes manufacturing, making it the ideal place to discover the latest material innovations and discuss the challenges facing the industry.
Marion Sterner and Jonas Karlsson's presentation will explore the science behind this novel paper technology, share pilot-scale results, and discuss its potential to expand the use of fibre-based materials in wipes applications.
Whether you're developing next-generation wipes, evaluating sustainable materials or looking for new manufacturing solutions, this session offers valuable insight into one of the sector's most promising areas of innovation.
Don't miss the opportunity to hear directly from the team behind the technology and connect with industry leaders at GO Wipes Europe 2026. Secure your place today and join the conversations shaping the future of wipes.
