Noble Biomaterials Announces Test Results Showing X-STATIC® Technology’s Ability To Reduce Coronavirus Viability On Fabric

SCRANTON, Pa. — June 11, 2020 — Noble Biomaterials today announced the results of third-party laboratory testing of fabric made with its X-STATIC® technology against human coronavirus OC43, a common, strong strain of coronavirus. The lab results, from BioScience Laboratories Inc., showed that the metallized Noble Biomaterials fabric reduced the viability of the virus six times faster than the unmetallized control fabric. Several Noble Biomaterials customers, including mask manufacturers Flaviatex and Filartex, are already using this material.

“As a major supplier to the healthcare, military and consumer industries, we wanted to have a neutral third party test our fabric technology to ensure it could help reduce the viability of the virus,” said Jeff Keane, CEO of Noble Biomaterials. “These lab results provide critical safety information for our partners, particularly in the healthcare industry, where cross-contamination and infection prevention are constant concerns.”

Products made with Noble Biomaterials’ X-STATIC and Ionic+™ technologies can promote a safer healthcare environment by permanently inhibiting the growth of drug-resistant bacteria and fungi and preventing bacterial cross-contamination. The company has supplied partners on five continents with enough antimicrobial products to make tens of millions of pieces of PPE as well as other soft-surface materials that provide antimicrobial protection to patients and healthcare workers.

“Our mission has always been to protect, so we’re grateful that our lab-tested materials are able to provide another layer of protection for healthcare workers, patients and consumers during this healthcare crisis, whether the fabrics are used for scrubs and surgical gowns, bedding and privacy curtains, or consumer masks and apparel,” said Keane.

“Our customers see the value in antimicrobial soft surfaces to help control healthcare-acquired infections,” said Tony Lundin, founder of Silverguard Textiles, a South African company that has been using X-STATIC in its products for years. “With the current crisis, it’s even more important, and a number of leading hospitals, clinics and institutions in Southern Africa are using the full complement of antimicrobial products we make with X-STATIC, including privacy curtains, bedding, scrubs, surgical gowns and reusable masks.”

As a maker of advanced soft-surface protection materials for medical, military and commercial use, Pennsylvania-based Noble Biomaterials is considered a life-sustaining business and was therefore able to stay open during the Pennsylvania shutdown due to COVID-19 to meet increasing demand for materials used in healthcare fabrics. In addition to being registered as an antimicrobial with the US EPA, X-STATIC holds multiple 510(k) FDA approvals for advanced wound-/burn-care dressings and has undergone extensive safety testing. It is also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified.

Posted June 11, 2020

Source: Noble Biomaterials Inc.

Unique In France: PRONEEM Launches The First French Anti-Covid-19 Textile Treatment – Proven On SARS-CoV-2

MARSEILLES — June 10, 2020 — A French start-up, with support from France Chimie and Novachim, has manufactured a textile treatment with high antiviral activity that neutralizes the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 on textile surfaces. A French breakthrough innovation.

PRONEEM, a company specialized in functional technologies applied to textiles in industrial environments, combines sustainable virtues with cutting-edge technologies to bring high added value to the textile industry — antibacterial, anti-dust mite and anti-insect properties. The company is led by Nathalie Hagege, who holds a doctorate in molecular biology and immunology. Its manufacturing processes based on microencapsulation and its major R&D investment currently make it theonly international company to hold a Marketing Authorization (EC number: 283-644-7, FR-2018-0028) for a biocidal treatment to functionalize textile articles intended for domestic use that come into contact with the skin.

In this pandemic period, PRONEEM’s experts, supported by France Chimie and Novachim, have applied their expertise to combatting Covid-19 by developing the only French textile treatment with high antiviral activity, with proven efficacy on SARS-CoV-2. Tested by an independent French laboratory*, the technology forms a lasting and permanent barrier that neutralizes the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 on textile surfaces. This innovative treatment, VIRALSTOP™, combines the antiviral properties of zinc pyrithione and zinc oxide (ZnO) with other active ingredients, by preventing many viruses such as coronaviruses replicating and by damaging the viral envelope. Tested on samples of different types of textiles, it is currently the only French treatment tested on the SARS-CoV-2 strain shown to be effective in neutralizing the virus. Its virucidal action reduces the viral population by more than 99.99%**, increases the textile’s protection level and limits transmission of the virus. A major innovation. It should be remembered that infected surfaces represent a major vector for contamination and transmission, and that the new coronavirus appears to survive from several hours to several days on textile surfaces.

“Proneem’s collaboration with Chimie France and Novachim is enabling innovation to progress faster and puts French R&D at the forefront. Indeed, for the first time in France, it has been possible to conduct tests on the SARS-CoV-2 strain, proving the performance of a treated textile. With an effective active ingredient and documented textile impregnation systems, we have proved that it is possible to create textiles able to destroy the virus” explains Hagege, founder and president of Proneem.

The researcher, who was a member of the expert committee that drew up the AFNOR document on sanitary masks, is now working to optimize all textile and non-textile materials (including non-woven fabrics) to combat all coronaviruses, including Covid-19, actively. The idea: to enable the manufacture of French anti-Covid-19 textile and non-textile equipment that is easy to use, reusable, competitively priced and accessible to all, which would provide maximum protection for the whole population while also overcoming the risks from shortages of certain materials.

“Today, as we begin to exit lockdown, with activity resuming in various business sectors, it is essential to optimize the performance of sanitary and surgical masks with impregnation systems to provide maximum safety. I am thinking of all the industries, such as tourism or the events sector, that have to be organized differently and relaunch their activities with preventive measures and safety. And I’m also thinking about all the mothers who aren’t sending their children to school out of fear they will catch or pass on Covid-19. With this innovation, my overriding aim is to provide a solution to an unprecedented problem that is bringing the global economy to a standstill. Wearing clothing able to neutralize the virus would go a long way towards overcoming the social distancing problem,” added Hagege.

Functionalized textiles with anti-Covid-19 properties will be used to make gloves, mask sand clothing able to neutralize the virus, which can therefore be used for long periods without fear of the infectivity of many viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.It will also be possible to use VIRALSTOP technology in many applications:textile sprays with antiviral properties for the general public and the hotel sector(hotels, bed and breakfasts, holiday rentals, campsites), antiviral textile cleaners for industrial laundries, hospital laundries, dry cleaners, etc.

Wearing clothes with anti-Covid-19 properties would considerably enhance social distancing measures and issues for tourism and the events sector, currently cancelled or postponed. Beyond the current health crisis, by means of this breakthrough innovation, PRONEEM wishes to accelerate the development of functional textiles, reindustrialize the country and restore the opportunity for France to be a major player on the international scene.

*VIBIOSPHEN, French medical biotechnology laboratory specialized in infectious diseases.

**Results of tests carried out on different synthetic and natural textile samples.

    • Anti-viral effect on the SARS-CoV-2 strain:after 2 hours’ contact on treated textiles, in accordance with the ISO18184 anti-viral standard, VIRAL STOP™ neutralizes the SARS-CoV-2 strain responsible for Covid-19 with 99.99% efficiency.
    • Antibacterial effect: after contact with treated textiles, in accordance with the ISO20743 standard against Gram+ and Gram-bacteria responsible for pathogenic developments linked to nosocomial infections, VIRAL STOP™ neutralizes these bacteria with 99.99% effectiveness

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: PRONEEM

J.Jill Inc. Appoints Shelley Milano To Board Of Directors

QUINCY, Mass. — June 10, 2020 — J.Jill Inc. today announced the appointment of Shelley Milano to its board of directors, effective immediately.

“Shelley is an established industry leader with impeccable credentials, and she perfectly complements the skills and expertise of our current Board,” said Michael Rahamim, J.Jill’s Chairman. “Our ability to attract such an accomplished leader is a testament to the continued strength of our brand, and it reinforces our commitment to all of our stakeholders.”

“I am excited to be joining J. Jill’s Board of Directors,” Milano said. “I recognize that J.Jill occupies an important place in the market and serves an important role in its customers’ lives. I look forward to working alongside the Board and the management team as we build on the legacy of the brand and work to find solutions to the challenges facing retailers today.”

Milano is executive vice president, chief human resources officer for L Brands, owner of the Victoria’s Secret, PINK and Bath & Body Works brands. Before assuming this position, she served as the company’s senior vice president and general counsel. Prior to joining L Brands in 2015, Milano served in executive leadership positions with Eddie Bauer Inc., Starbucks Corp. and Honda of America Manufacturing Inc. Milano is a member of the boards of directors of Urban Hardwoods and Bartell Drugs.

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: J.Jill Inc.

YKK Producing Essentials Parts Supporting Covid-19 Health Workers

RUNCORN, England — June 10, 2020 — YKK are currently producing essential parts at their factory based in Runcorn, Cheshire, to help support the fight against Covid-19.

The UK-based factory is producing critical fastenings for isolation/containment units, medical equipment and PPE (personal protective equipment), mattress protection and ventilator components.

The European R&D facility, also based at Runcorn is presently able to produce around 400 masks for YKK staff who are working in the factory as well as for offer to local schools and care homes.

Matthew Rawston, Leader – Product Development, said: “We were approached to make masks for local health workers and of course during these difficult times, we were more than happy to support — the masks that are currently being made are all using YKK products”

Tony Reilly, UK Group managing director, said, “Without the dedication of our workers and staff involved, this wouldn’t have been possible; to be part of the fight against Covid-19 is something we are proud to support.

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: YKK Europe Ltd.

Arvind Announces Launch Of Revolutionary Anti-Viral Fabrics Under Its “Intellifabrix” Brand — Partners With Swiss Textile Innovator HeiQ

MUMBAI — June 10, 2020 — While fabrics have been usually associated with fashion, as the world faces the COVID-19 crisis, there is an urgent need for antiviral fabrics in our daily lives. Arvind Ltd. today announced launch of anti-viral textile technology for the first time in India under its brand “Intellifabrix.” Arvind has partnered with Switzerland-based HeiQ Materials AG in association with Taiwanese Specialty chemical major M/S Jintex Corp. to introduce this revolutionary anti-virus technology in India.

Research shows that viruses and bacteria, can remain active on textile surfaces for up to two days. Garments treated with HeiQ Viroblock actively inhibit viruses and kill them upon contact, helping to minimize the potential for re-transmission of pathogens through clothing.

Announcing the launch of the anti-viral fabrics under INTELLIFABRIX Kulin Lalbhai, executive director, Arvind, said: “The world is facing an unprecedented crisis due to COVID-19. In this context, we are committed to keep our customers safe and that is why we have tied up with HeiQ to bring its revolutionary Viroblock technology to India. We are excited with this partnership and in a very short period of time we will introduce into the Indian market fabrics that will provide best-in-class viral protection and are fashionable at the same time.”

HeiQ Viroblock is an antiviral product created by HeiQ. HeiQ Viroblock significantly enhances the antiviral log reduction and reduces viral infectivity by 99.99 percent and claims such efficacy on SARS-CoV-2. HeiQ Viroblock has been designed to stay active on treated garments for 30 gentle domestic washes, ensuring safety for the consumer that lasts for a good part of the garment’s life, according to the company.

Talking about the partnership Carlo Centonze, CEO, HeiQ Group said: “HeiQ Viroblock is a special combination of our advanced silver and vesicle technology that has been proven effective against the human coronavirus 229E & SARS-CoV-2, causing Covid-19, with 99.99-percent reduction of virus in 30 minutes. It is a safe, hypoallergenic and patent pending technology. We are pleased to partner with Innovative Brand ‘Arvind’ in India to offer this technology across their range of products”

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: Arvind Ltd.

Ensuring The Quality Of Respiratory Masks And Medical Protective Clothing: Control Nonwoven Basis Weight And Material Thickness With The Beta Sensor Gravimat DFI From Mahlo

SAAL/DONAU, Germany — June 10, 2020 — Weight and thickness have a great influence on the functionality of nonwoven goods. Especially in the current situation in the wake of the worldwide corona pandemic, it is essential to be able to rely 100 percent on the quality of medical products such as masks or protective gowns. Thanks to decades of experience and a wide range of measurement and control technology, the Germany-based company Mahlo GmbH + Co KG can support manufacturers in monitoring and controlling important parameters during the production process. Various sensors are available depending on the application.

The Gravimat DFI sensor is part of the modular Qualiscan QMS quality measurement system and measures weight and material thickness using isotope radiation. The measurement is based on the attenuation of radioactive radiation by the substrate in the measuring gap. This weakening of the intensity is a measure of the basis weight of the goods. Mahlo works with different isotope variants in order to do justice to different material properties. Krypton-85 is used for goods with a weight between 10 and 1400 g/m², strontium-90 is used for 100 to 6000 g/m².

Proven and reliable function

The transmitter in the traversing sensor beams onto the running web. Due to its mass, the radiation reaches the receiver in a damped manner. The values of the transmitted and received radiation are calculated to obtain the weight per unit area. Mahlo uses a multi-channel receiver in which the incoming measuring radiation is distributed to different areas of the fabric surface. In this way precise values are obtained, no matter what position the fabric is currently in.

This method also solves one of the biggest problems faced by manufacturers of web-shaped goods such as hygiene fleece: measurement inaccuracies due to fabric flutter. Its sensor technology makes the Gravimat DFI immune to changes in the center of gravity. It measures precisely and unaffected by any changes in degree of dryness, density or thickness.

The Gravimat DFI does not require strong absorbers or highly radioactive sources. Nevertheless, the highest precision, speed and resolution are guaranteed. The sensor can be used for practically all nonwoven applications.

For non-woven fabric used for face masks, air permeability is of particular importance. After all, the wearer must be able to breathe easily. In this case, Mahlo combines basis weight measurement with an air permeability sensor, which can also measure on the running web with a light touch.

Quality assurance from Mahlo – in the service of health

Manufacturers of medical goods are currently under pressure to deliver their goods as quickly as possible, but still with high quality. With process control systems from Mahlo, this balancing act is not only easier to master — production costs are also further reduced. The automatic basis weight control significantly limits the spread of the basis weight and thus guarantees a more uniform end product. Suitable setpoint settings with minimum tolerance ranges, in addition to ensuring product quality, save considerable material and energy costs. In addition, a safety margin is eliminated, which otherwise means loss of goods and time.

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG

Baldwin Technology Acquires UV Company Western Quartz Products

ST. LOUIS — June 9, 2020 — Baldwin Technology Co. Inc. has announced the acquisition of certain assets of Western Quartz Products, a company in the ultraviolet (UV) curing and exposure industry. Western Quartz is known for manufacturing state-of-the-art UV curing lamps, as well as for having a reputation of exceptional quality cultivated through decades of serving a variety of industries.

“We are excited to welcome Western Quartz, along with its customers, to our global UV technology arm and our broad portfolio of products that improve processes for printing, packaging and industrial markets,” said Joe Kline, CEO of Baldwin. “This acquisition further demonstrates Baldwin’s commitment to expanding our reach and technology connection for the benefit of our customers, as we continue to grow our caring, collaborative, people-centric culture for team members.”

Western Quartz began in 1931 in Hermosa Beach, Calif., and was one of the first producers of quartz lamps for medical purposes. Following decades of continued research and development, along with innovation spearheaded by founder John F. Dallons and his family, Western Quartz moved further into the UV curing industry and grew to become a preeminent supplier of UV curing and exposure lamps worldwide, with customers throughout the US, Europe and Asia.

“Western Quartz enhances Baldwin’s capabilities in additive (doped) UV lamp production for industrial markets, providing an excellent complement to our existing UV and LED-UV technology portfolio within our AMS Spectral UV business and PRIMARC products,” said Rich Bennett, president of Baldwin’s AMS Spectral UV unit. “Through this acquisition, we will continue to manufacture the same great quality that Western Quartz customers are used to, and will harmonize operations, increase capacity and add more capabilities.”

“We are proud to join the Baldwin family and to see our 89-year legacy of quality and innovation be preserved through this acquisition,” said Katy Wetterstrand, director and CFO of Western Quartz. “It is an exciting time for UV technology to help improve manufacturing processes, as well as human safety, through new applications in sterilization and disinfection around the world. Through Baldwin, Western Quartz joins a sizeable organization with significant reach and resources, and we look forward to continuing to expand our services and capabilities for our customers and the industry.”

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: Baldwin Technology Co. Inc.

For The First Time In Its 63 Year History, The Canton Fair Is Being Held Virtually, Indicating A Positive Step Towards Moving Product Sourcing Online

SAN MATEO — June 10, 2020 — This June, from the 15th to the 24th, China will be hosting its 127th Canton Fair, continuing from last year’s success which recorded a turnover of $29.3 billion and welcomed 186,000 buyers looking to source the best products.

Since 1957, the fair has grown into a comprehensive international trade event, attracting thousands of buyers and suppliers to showcase their products and manufacturing capabilities, as well as build long-lasting relationships. This year, however, will see a new iteration – the very first online Canton Fair.

With COVID-19 causing severe disruption to in-store sales, the e-commerce landscape is flourishing and looking at fast growth. Sales from online marketplaces, such as those operated by Alibaba, Amazon, eBay and more, accounted for 58 per cent of global web sales in 2019[1]. This year, over 36 million Americans have lost their jobs due to COVID-19, whilst companies such as Shopify and Rakuten are seeing increased growth. Even Facebook is now creating online selling tools that leverage the 160 million businesses using its site to create online ‘shops’[2] – it’s clear that online marketplaces are the next stage in business development.

“The Canton Fair has always represented the opportunity for merchants to upgrade their supply chains,” said Kenny Tsang, managing director of PingPong Payments. “Global buyers have supplier partners all over China, but it’s often difficult to stay up-to-date on new product developments and capabilities. Canton offers buyers the chance to touch base with multiple suppliers, all in a single event, and compare products and technology. They make new connections, discover new suppliers, and are therefore able to optimize their supply chain to best suit their business needs.”

“But it’s not just about finding the right suppliers or sourcing the right products that professional sellers need to be concerned about,” Tsang said. “It’s everything that comes after. In a recessionary environment, where moving fast is key, sellers don’t want to be spending valuable time on payment issues. The pandemic has pushed the online marketplace into the fast lane, and sellers are in need of both a payments system, the overseas market knowledge and business advice, that can help them break into new markets, at speed, at scale and with confidence. That’s why PingPong developed PayAgo.”

“Specifically designed with the sellers needs in mind, PayAgo provides a holistic approach to supplier payments — sellers can now pay multiple suppliers, in multiple currencies, from a single platform. When it comes to sourcing new suppliers, sellers can be confident in our vetting services and our commitment to keeping sellers compliant — all of which helps to eliminate risk when diversifying their supply chains. By putting systems in place like PayAgo, sellers know they’re able to pay their suppliers on time and in the most convenient currency, leaving them free to focus on what makes their business great, and reach market goals.”

Retailers, goods and service providers will need to source top-quality products at reasonable prices in order to sustain profits in the long-term. The Canton Fair provides the means for new and well-established buyers to achieve these outcomes, and create strong supplier networks that will help them realize commercial objectives.

“Those who are nervous about the new online format of the Canton Fair, can breathe easy,” adds Tsang. “Yes, it’s a new format, but this adaptation in light of the pandemic will actually prove beneficial to buyers and suppliers. Comparisons can be difficult and time consuming at the best of times, but with the new online features, such as live streaming and matching services — and with the confidence of a seamless payments platform backing their decisions — this process is even easier than before.”

Posted June 10, 2020

Source: PingPong Payments

Hanesbrands Board Of Directors Appoints Stephen B. Bratspies As CEO, Effective August 3, 2020

Bratspies

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — June 9, 2020 — HanesBrands, a global basic apparel marketer under leading consumer brands, today announced that its board of directors has appointed Stephen B. Bratspies as CEO and board member, effective August 3, 2020. Bratspies will succeed Gerald W. Evans Jr., who previously announced his plans to retire after a 37-year career at HanesBrands.

Bratspies, 52, brings more than 25 years of retail, digital and consumer product leadership experience to Hanes. Most recently, he served as chief merchandising officer at Walmart Inc. where he managed $330 billion in sales, drove a major merchandising transformation initiative, and accelerated comp-store sales and market share gains.

His prior leadership positions at Walmart included executive vice president of general merchandise, executive vice president of food, and senior vice president of marketing. He is recognized for his strong and consistent results, passion for people, and winning in the marketplace. Earlier in his career, Bratspies served as chief marketing officer for Specialty Brands, held various management positions at PepsiCo, Inc.’s Frito-Lay North America division, and was a management consultant with A.T. Kearney.

“After a comprehensive search, we are excited to appoint Steve as the next CEO of Hanes,” said Ronald L. Nelson, the company’s chairman of the board. “Steve is an experienced global leader, has a strong vision for the future of consumer products businesses, and has an extensive track record of success in senior management roles across a number of critical business disciplines. He has tackled complex business challenges and consistently delivered superior results across a multitude of consumer product categories.

“We are confident that Steve is the ideal CEO to lead Hanes forward as we focus on our strong portfolio of consumer brands across the globe, rapid online growth, and strong cash flow model. We look forward to an exciting new chapter for Hanes under Steve’s leadership and oversight.”

Bratspies, who will relocate to Winston-Salem, noted, “I am thrilled to be joining the HanesBrands team, the clear global leader in everyday apparel basics with great iconic brands like Hanes and Champion. It is an honor to assume the role of CEO and join this highly respected global team of 63,000 strong. I have great respect for all that Hanes has accomplished throughout its rich history, including developing power brands, driving category-leading product innovation, and building deep consumer relationships. In addition, Hanes has built a world-class company-owned supply chain and established a strong reputation for workplace, environmental and social responsibility. Together, we will continue to accomplish great things and chart a future of growth and value creation for all of our constituencies.”

Gerald Evans, 61, will oversee the leadership transition until August and remain as an advisor to the company through 2021.

“We extend our gratitude to Gerald for his many contributions to the company’s brand building, global supply chain diversification, and international commercial expansion over the last 37 years, and most recently for his excellent leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Nelson said. “Gerald has always put the best interests of Hanes and its employees first, and we appreciate his support of Steve and the management team through the transition period. We also wish him well in his retirement.”

Posted June 9, 2020

Source: HanesBrands, Inc.

Introducing The Coats Synthesizer App Featuring A Yarn Blend Calculator

UXBRIDGE, England — June 9, 2020 — Coats, an industrial thread company, has developed Coats Synthesizer, a unique app featuring a yarn blend calculator that accurately predicts, within seconds, fabric properties for end-use in the personal protection sector, according to the company. The ground breaking tool enables Coats to support its customers tailored needs while also saving on the resource of multiple sampling processes.

Coats Synthesizer is a bespoke tool that blends yarns virtually using algorithms. The sophisticated blend predictor technology provides information on essential fabric properties such as burn protection, abrasion resistance and ATPV (arc thermal protective value). It also allows yarn costs to be optimized in real time. The app will support Coats as it works alongside customers to collaborate on the development of new and innovative blends together. Following the initial blend prediction and sampling done digitally, it is just fine tuning that is required at the physical development stage. This significantly increases the speed of delivery of products that meet customer needs without extensive trials or sampling.

Ronan Cox, president, Performance Materials, Coats, said: ‘We continue to push the boundaries to provide tools and services to help improve our customers productivity and speed to market. This app reduces the need for a long, costly pre-production sampling and will enable Coats to continue to drive to support our customers more efficiently in the competitive post-COVID world.’

Coats Synthesizer supports Coats position as a trusted partner and global leader of blended yarn production for innovative personal protection. It provides a series of advanced solutions with added quality and value for protective wear. These include the Coats FlamePro™ product range of flame-resistant, electric arc and cut-resistant yarns which deliver optimum heat, fire and smelting hazard protection for use in the personal protection, military and industrial sectors.

Coats global expertise and real time communication and knowledge sharing means it is able to support customers – wherever they are.

Posted June 9, 2020

Source: Coats

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