RadiciGroup, Italy, has introduced CornLeaf yarns manufactured by its subsidiary Noyfil S.A., Switzerland, using Ingeo™ polylactic acid (PLA) polymer. The yarn is used in Noyfil's Ingeo and REvive product lines.

CornLeaf is solution-dyed, and a HEIQ silver-based microcompound is added to the yarn during processing to impart ISO 20743:2007-certified antimicrobial functionality.

Other features include: tenacity comparable to that of man-made fibers; specific weight less than that of natural fibers; good ultraviolet resistance; low flammability; and inherent comfort owing to a greater hygroscopicity than for man-made fiber, and a faster drying time than for natural fibers.

November/December 2010