DuPont Innovation Awards Recognize The Best PPE And Fabrics Against Emerging Risks

DÜSSELDORF, Germany — November 18, 2025 — DuPont has announced the winners of its 2025 DuPont Innovation Awards for Thermal and Mechanical Protection, recognizing some of the most exciting developments in the personal protective equipment (PPE) and Emergency Response industries.

This year marks the first global edition of the awards — open to new products made using either Nomex® or Kevlar® fabrics or fibers. The expanded scope of the awards, recently held at the A+A show in Düsseldorf, Germany, acknowledges the growing demand for multi-hazard protection in light of evolving risks.

Reducing the environmental footprint of PPE, advancing recyclability and helping protect workers against unprecedented electrical hazards were among the common themes from this year’s entries. Firefighter safety also took center stage, with multiple entries addressing the growing awareness of the particulate hazards firefighters are increasingly exposed to, including emerging risks from electric vehicle fires.

“DuPont is proud to recognize the winners of our Innovation Awards that bring together Nomex® and Kevlar® innovations from all regions for the first time,” said Stephanie Vrakas, global market leader at DuPont Personal Protection. “These award recipients have developed innovative solutions for the Industrial PPE and Emergency Response industries through all-in-one, multi-hazard solutions that protect workers and firefighters more effectively while advancing sustainability.”

The awards’ judges evaluated each entry based on key aspects such as product performance, innovative design, quality of manufacturing, and environmental responsibility among others. Participants from all continents submitted entries across four categories: Nomex for Industrial PPE, Kevlar for Industrial PPE, Nomex Fabrics, and Nomex & Kevlar for Emergency Response.

Combining multi-hazard protection with sustainability was a source of inspiration for two of the winning products in the first category, Nomex® for Industrial PPE. Phenix protective clothing from French company, Groupe Mulliez-Flory, is made using Nomex Comfort fabric with EcoForce™ finish. It protects workers across the oil and gas, chemical, and electrical sectors against multiple hazards while enhancing durability and sustainability.

Spain’s Iturri S.A. has developed post-consumer Nomex Recycled garments for the oil and gas industry, using a fabric with 30 percent recycled materials.

Another winner in the Nomex for Industrial PPE category was the Weldforce Welding Suit from Türkiye-based İşmont Tekstil, which combines flame and heat resistance with enhanced mobility for demanding tasks.

The fourth and final winner was the 40 Cal LAN Series Arc Flash Suit from USA-based SureWerx. This ultra-lightweight suit provides optimal worker comfort while meeting the highest arc flash protection requirements for workers across renewables, electrification, and other sectors.

Three of the winners in the second category, Kevlar for Industrial PPE, were protective gloves that provide both performance and comfort. Swedish company, Ejendals, developed the TEGERA® welding gloves, combining heat and cut protection with optimal fit, comfort, and fingertip control.

The Kevlar SoftShield 379 Level A9 Liner, designed by Escorts Advanced Textiles in Pakistan, combines the highest cut protection level (A9) with the softest Kevlar-based fabric with steel reinforcement.

The ultra-light G-Tek® Paradox™ 21 Gauge (09-K3511) Cut Resistant Gloves, from American manufacturer, PIP Global Safety, deliver outstanding dexterity, tactile sensitivity, and heat resistance.

The fourth and final winner in the category was the Anti-laceration, Flame-Resistant, and Antistatic sleeve developed by France’s S.E.R.B. Regain Perform. This versatile PPE is ideal for law enforcement and security personnel as well as glass industry workers.

Firefighter protection was one of the driving forces behind most of the winners in the remaining two categories. Rambo Outershell Fabric for firefighter suits developed by Chinese company Ibena Shanghai features Nomex spun yarn interwoven with Kevlar filament, delivering tensile strength that’s 30 percent higher than conventional fabrics.

Nomex Xtreme Max, developed by Kipas Mensucat Isletmeleri A.S., from Türkiye, provides firefighter suits with high mechanical performance. UK-based PGI Safety Ltd developed the BarriAire Carbon Laminate Nano Flex Particulate Hood with enhanced performance.

Nomex Nano FlexLAM AIR hoods from France’s Alpex Protection Particulates feature an innovative air cushion between the different layers that increases breathability and thermal protection.

Another French winner was the 7158 Navy protective fire-resistant knit from Sofileta. This fabric can protect workers against electric arc hazards as well as chemical liquids according to the EN13034 standard.

Elastic Premium fabric for all types of protective garments, designed by German company, Theodolf Fritsche GmbH, uses a unique elastic yarn that is much more durable than Elasthan.

For more information about the DuPont Innovation Awards, visit: https://www.dupont.com/personal-protection/nomex-kevlar-awards.html

Posted: November 25, 2025

Source: DuPont

Milliken & Company And Numat Technologies Announce Strategic Partnership To Deliver Next-Generation Protection Solutions

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — November 25, 2025 — Numat Technologies Inc., a producer of Nobel Prize-winning metal-organic framework (MOF) materials, and Milliken & Company have announced a strategic supply relationship to deliver next-generation protective fabric solutions for defense, first responder and industrial customers. The integration of Milliken’s advanced textiles with Numat’s Sentinel® MOF technology platform will create functional, reactive, and self-decontaminating fabrics that enhance protection, breathability, and comfort in extreme environments.

“Our work with Numat is about bold innovation and real-world impact,” said Halsey Cook, president and CEO at Milliken. “Together, we are setting a new standard in protection — delivering textile solutions that not only help safeguard lives but redefine what’s possible in our industry.”

These MOF-enabled textile solutions are non-PFAS and will be manufactured in the United States, reflecting both organizations’ commitment to material innovation, environmental stewardship, and a strengthened U.S. industrial base. Key customers for this innovative chemical protection solution platform include chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense professionals and first responders seeking non-PFAS alternatives to legacy protective technologies.

“This partnership represents a generational leap forward in protective fabrics and suits,” said Ben Hernandez, CEO of Numat Technologies. “By combining Numat’s highly advanced MOF technology platform with Milliken’s textile technology and scale, we’re delivering sustainable, high-performance solutions that protect those who protect us.”

Future product development will include cutting-edge signature management and enhanced concealment textile technologies, integrating CBRN defense with adaptive battlefield camouflage performance.

“We’re not just supplying advanced materials — we’re driving American innovation to shape the future of protective textiles,” said Marcio Manique, senior vice president, and managing director for Milliken’s apparel business. “Partnering with Numat strengthens our leadership in core markets as we expand CBRN solutions that set the standard for performance and protection.”

Posted: November 25, 2025

Source: Milliken & Company

AATCC Announces 2026 Coloration Conference

DURHAM, N.C. — November 24, 2025 — Join industry leaders, innovators, and researchers for the AATCC Coloration Conference, February 24–25, 2026, at the StateView Hotel in Raleigh, N.C. This event will bring together professionals from across the textile and color industries to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of coloration.

About the Conference:

The program will highlight sustainable practices, digital transformation, and advancements in dyeing technology — from lab design and color communication to natural dyes and waterless coloration systems. Attendees will gain valuable insights into modern production methods, material innovations, and testing techniques driving performance and sustainability in today’s textile supply chain.

This event is designed for professionals involved in textile coloration, product development, research and development, testing, quality control, and sustainability. It welcomes representatives from brands, mills, and suppliers who are eager to deepen their expertise and stay connected with industry advancements. Participants will gain valuable insights into emerging technological and market trends, network with peers and leading experts in textile coloration, and experience hands-on learning through lab tours and technical sessions. Be inspired by innovative leaders who are shaping the future of color in textiles.

Program Highlights

Program content is currently in development. Topics listed below could possibly change.

Designing & Modernizing Dyeing Labs for the Future

  • Explore strategies for upgrading lab environments to meet the demands of next-
    generation coloration.

LEDs and Their Challenges

  • Understand the implications of LED lighting for color perception and control.

Digital Standards & Color Communication in the LED/UV Era

  • Learn how digital tools are reshaping global color management practices.

Color Matching & Control

  • Address best practices for achieving and maintaining accurate, consistent color.

Panel Discussions

  • Hear multiple perspectives from industry experts on evolving challenges and
    opportunities in coloration.

Fibre52: Natural Fibers & Efficiency Analytics

  • Discover innovative, sustainable processing methods for cotton and natural fibers.

Preparation for Synthetic Fibers

  • Examine modern techniques to improve dye uptake and performance in synthetics.

Challenges of Recycled Fibers

  • Gain insight into coloration issues and solutions for circular textile systems.

Natural & BioBased Dyes

  • Explore emerging dye sources and applications from natural and bio-based materials.

New Color Application Technologies

  • See how automation and digitalization are revolutionizing the dyeing process.

Innovations in Waterless Dyeing

  • This session showcases cutting-edge approaches to sustainable color application.

AATCC Test Methods

  • Learn about recent updates and applications in AATCC colorfastness and testing
    standards.

Advancements in Colorfastness Testing Equipment

  • See the latest tools for accurate, reliable color evaluation and performance testing.
    North Carolina State University Wilson College of Textiles
    Experience an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s premier
    institutions for textile education and research. Attendees will participate in guided tours
    of the analytical service lab, digital design lab, TPACC, and the dyeing & finishing pilot
    labs at the Wilson College of Textiles

Register today to connect with leading industry professionals and academic experts at this
must-attend event. AATCC members enjoy discounted registration. Be sure to register by
February 10, 2026, to take advantage of early rates.

For more program details Visit https://www.aatcc.org/coloration/

Posted: November 25, 2025

Source: The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)

Woolmark Partners With Ajio Luxe, Tata Cliq Luxury To Spotlight Merino Wool’s Performance And All-Season Versatility To Indian Luxury Shoppers

MUMBAI, India — November 24, 2025 — Woolmark has launched a strategic, collaborative campaign with India’s leading luxury e-commerce platforms, Ajio Luxe and Tata CLiQ Luxury, spotlighting the versatility and advanced performance capabilities of Merino wool. The campaign, titled “Merino Reimagined,” aims to shift consumer perception by showcasing wool as a modern, year-round luxury fiber rather than solely a heavy winter material.

Building on three consecutive years of successful partnership with Ajio Luxe — and marking the inaugural collaboration with Tata CLiQ Luxury — the campaign represents a unified effort to engage distinct, fast-growing segments within India’s luxury and lifestyle market.

The campaign with Ajio Luxe, which is now live, is anchored in Performance and Athleisure, underscoring Merino wool’s natural, high-tech functionality. Under the core message, “Merino Wool Crafted for Motion,” the platform highlights the fiber’s dynamic breathability, superior moisture management and inherent odor resistance — qualities that make Merino the ideal choice for consumers embracing active lifestyles, sportswear and contemporary athleisure.

Running in parallel, Tata CLiQ Luxury brings focus ot Merino wool’s Year-Round Versatility through the “Merino Reimagined” narrative. This campaign emphasizes the elegance, comfort and exceptional climate adaptability of lightweight Merino garments. Featured brands and curated pieces celebrate premium, sustainable wardrobe investments designed to transcend traditional seasonality and deliver refined style for every Indian climate.

“India’s luxury consumer is highly discerning and increasingly seeks investments that blend performance, quality, sustainability, and style. Our collaboration with Ajio Luxe and Tata CLiQ Luxury is essential to unlocking Merino wool’s full potential in this market,” said John Roberts, Managing Director, Woolmark. “By spotlighting Merino across athleisure and year-round dressing, we are dismantling outdated perceptions of seasonality and reaffirming its status as the world’s most versatile natural luxury fiber.”

Reflecting the shared vision of all three partners, the initiative underscores a collective commitment to redefining modern luxury in India. Leadership from Woolmark, Ajio Luxe and Tata CLiQ Luxury eco the significant market opportunity that Merino wool represents amid the country’s rapidly evolving fashion and lifestyle landscape.

Posted: November 25, 2025

Source: The Woolmark Company

Nonwovenn Advances Activated Carbon Fabrics

BRIDGWATER, England — November 24, 2025 — Nonwovenn, a nonwoven fabric-tech company, has announced significant advancements in its activated carbon (AC) fabric technology, improving AC accessibility, performance and manufacturing robustness across its certified face mask ranges.

Face mask example Image: Mrkit99

The latest developments focus on enhancing processing systems that enable greater AC accessibility, resulting in improved filtration performance, manufacturing consistency and product value.

Through the refined processing systems, Nonwovenn has optimized how activated carbon is integrated and exposed within the mask fabric structure, ensuring high adsorption efficiency and longer service life. The business has also made advancements in bonding and lamination techniques, AC and fibre distribution control and layer architecture. The innovations help make the manufacturing process more stable and scalable, reduces waste and improves quality consistency.

Dr. Ross Ward, CarbonTech Business director at Nonwovenn, said: “We are continually developing new ways to make our activated carbon systems more accessible and effective. By refining how AC is incorporated and exposed within our fabric structures, we are seeing measurable improvements in both performance and process stability, which translates into stronger customer value and product competitiveness.”

“Our customers will benefit from improved carbon utilization, enhanced manufacturing processability, consistent carbon containment, flexible construction options and clear alignment with current PPE and medical standards.  These developments help reinforce our customer first approach, as we are always looking at ways we can improve our products.”

Nonwovenn’s certified mask fabrics are designed to meet recognized standards such as EN 149 for particle-filtering half masks under the European PPE Regulation, and relevant medical device standards where applicable. The products provide consistent protection and traceability for both occupational and clinical use. Alongside these certified face mask fabric options, Nonwovenn continues to offer mask fabrics that deliver comfort, odor control and protection from volatile organic compounds found in everyday environments. The business has also introduced selective additive and catalyst enhancements that broaden adsorption profiles for volatile organic compounds.

Posted: November 25, 2025

Source: Nonwovenn

Rieter Forms New Group Structure

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland — November 24, 2025 — The planned acquisition of the “Barmag” Division of OC Oerlikon will create the leading system provider worldwide for natural and man-made fibers. Rieter is confident it will receive all regulatory approvals to complete the acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2025. The Rieter Group is therefore adjusting its Group structure as of January 1, 2026, to take this acquisition into account and to be able to provide an even more agile response to market challenges.

The Machines & Systems and After Sales Divisions will be merged. Alexander Özbahadir will take over the new “Short-Staple Fiber” Division, which will be responsible for the short-staple fiber business, effective January 1, 2026. This will create synergies in sales and service activities and increase customer centricity through a geographical focus.

Roger Albrecht will now be responsible for the “Components and Technology” Division. His mandate will be to develop pioneering technology solutions, drive innovation and achieve growth in the key components business. With this organizational change, Rieter will further expand its technology leadership and intensify its development activities between Rieter and the component companies Accotex, Bräcker, Graf, Novibra, Suessen, SSM and Temco.

Serge Entleitner has decided to step down from the Group Executive Committee, effective December 31, 2025, and will support the company on various projects until his retirement in 2027. “Serge Entleitner has been instrumental in the development of the Components Division in recent years. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Serge for his outstanding contribution to the success of our company,” said Thomas Oetterli, chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Rieter.

Upon successful closing of the Barmag acquisition, the “Man-Made Fiber” Division will be integrated into the Rieter Group. Georg Stausberg will continue to lead the division and report to Thomas Oetterli, CEO of Rieter. He will also take a seat on the Group Executive Committee.

As of January 1, 2026, the Rieter Group Executive Board will comprise the following members:

  • Thomas Oetterli, CEO;
  • Oliver Streuli, CFO;
  • Emmanuelle Gmür, chief human resources officer;
  • Alexander Özbahadir, head of the “Short-Staple Fiber” Division;
  • Georg Stausberg (after closing), head of the “Man-Made Fiber” Division; and
  • Roger Albrecht, head of the “Components and Technology” Division.

The new, simplified organization will sharpen customer focus, strengthen technology leadership, increase productivity and promote synergies.

Rieter is responding to the persistently weak market situation with further cost-cutting measures by adjusting production capacities, simplifying supply chains, and streamlining overhead functions. The estimated one-off costs of around CHF 30 to 35 million will result in annual savings of just under CHF 30 million.

Posted: November 24, 2025

Source: Rieter AG

China Expands HMLS Capacities: Barmag To Commission Three HMLS Yarn Systems With A Total Of 30 Stations

REMSCHEID, Germany — November 20, 2025 — Barmag, a subsidiary of the Swiss Oerlikon Group, will commission three HMLS yarn systems with a total of 30 stations at renowned technical yarn manufacturers in China over the next three months.

Reinforced with dimensionally stable HMLS yarn, tires remain dimensionally stable even under load and temperature.

Particularly noteworthy: among them are two HMLS producers who had previously purchased from competitors. “They were convinced by our process technology, which guarantees the economic production of HMLS yarns of the very best quality,” says Sales Director Oliver Lemke, who, together with his colleagues on site, provides support to customers in the field of technical yarns.

The sophisticated material obtains its special properties during the spinning process. High speeds in the production process guarantee a stable arrangement of the molecules within the polymer that forms the actual thread. The internal structure of the molecular chain, in turn, is decisive for the dimensional stability of the final yarn.

Growing demand for HMLS yarns

The industry expects demand for HMLS yarns to increase in the coming years. This is mainly due to the trend toward lighter tires. Whereas high-modulus polyester yarn (HMLS) was previously used mainly in high-speed tires, its properties now also allow the tire carcass of small vans to be converted from steel cord to polyester. HMLS yarn is extremely tear-resistant, yet highly elastic and temperature- and dimensionally stable.

Another factor is the steadily increasing number of vehicle registrations worldwide. In China in particular, the production of local car brands has increased rapidly in recent years, which explains the expansion of capacity in the country.

Posted: November 23, 2025

Source: Barmag

Altri Orders Key White Liquor Plant And Fiberline Equipment From ANDRITZ

VIENNA, Austria — November 17, 2025 — International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order to supply state-of-the-art white liquor plant technologies and modernize the fiberline at Altri’s Biotek pulp mill in Vila Velha de Ródão, Portugal.

With this investment, Altri will increase both the operational efficiency and self-sufficiency of the mill.

The scope of supply, on EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) basis, includes:

  • New lime kiln with a capacity of 250 t/d of burned lime, designed for potential future capacity upgrade;
  • New lime mud filter with auxiliary equipment;
  • Green liquor clarifier upgrade; and
  • Process modification for fiberline including equipment and engineering.
Image: ANDRITZ

The start-up of the new equipment in Altri’s Biotek mill is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026. This order demonstrates the excellent business relationship between Altri and ANDRITZ.

The value of the order will not be disclosed. It is included in ANDRITZ’s order intake for the first quarter of 2025.

Altri is a Portuguese producer of cellulosic fibers. The company operates three pulp mills that produce fibers for several types of paper and dissolving pulp for the production of textiles.

Posted: November 23, 2025

Source: ANDRITZ GROUP

Join North Carolina’s Spring 2026 Technical Textile Trade Mission To The Middle East

RALEIGH, N.C. — November 17, 2026 — North Carolina’s textile innovators are invited by The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) to join a trade delegation to the Middle East focused on technical textiles and advanced material applications. This mission will connect participating companies with distributors, manufacturers, and government buyers seeking high-performance fiber, yarn, fabric, and finished solutions across industrial, medical, defense, and infrastructure sectors.

Who should participate?
Companies producing or supplying:

  • Fibers and filaments: high-tenacity polyester, aramid, carbon, polypropylene, UHMWPE, and bio-based fibers.
  • Yarns: multi-filament, high-modulus, conductive, antimicrobial, and flame-resistant yarns.
  • Fabrics: woven, nonwoven, and knitted structures engineered for filtration, protection, composites, or geosynthetics.
  • Finished goods and systems: personal protective equipment (PPE), ballistic panels, smart textiles, automotive interiors, filtration media, marine composites, or performance apparel.

Why the Middle East?
Rapid expansion in smart infrastructure, defense modernization, oil & gas safety, and renewable energy projects is fueling demand for advanced technical fabrics. Regional buyers are increasingly seeking U.S. partners known for quality, innovation, and reliability — and North Carolina’s textile cluster leads the nation in technical and specialty textile manufacturing.

Benefits to Delegates:

  • Pre-arranged B2B meetings with vetted distributors and buyers;
  • In-market briefings on regulatory, customs, and procurement trends;
  • Exposure to high-value niches — aerospace, geotextile, filtration, energy, and defense sectors; and
  • On-site logistical and translation support through state and federal trade partners.

Participating Regions: Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Planned Dates: Spring 2026
Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

To express interest or receive the full itinerary, contact Jeri Barutis at   Jeri.barutis@edpnc.com

Source: The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) – Jeri Barutis

Posted: November 21, 2025

AAFA Urges Renewed Support For Freedom Of Navigation Throughout The World

WASHINGTON — November 19, 2025 — Marking the second anniversary since the first Red Sea commercial shipping attacks by Yemen-based Houthi terrorists, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) today called on the Trump administration to accelerate efforts in pursuing a zero tolerance approach for freedom of navigation globally.

According to the letter, “We commend your administration’s actions to protect commercial shipping and urge sustained deterrence and robust diplomatic efforts to ensure freedom of navigation worldwide.”

The letter continues, “We applaud the broader efforts taken by the U.S. military and our allies to protect commercial shipping — including defensive and offensive operations, sanctions targeting Houthi resources, sustained diplomacy with regional partners, and courageous naval escorts and rescues.”

AAFA welcomed the administration’s important decision to designate the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). While the Houthis released the Galaxy Leader crew at the start of 2025, they continue to attack maritime traffic, underscoring the ongoing danger. This designation appropriately recognized the severity of their attacks, strengthened the legal tools available to disrupt their financing, and sent an unmistakable signal that violence against commercial shipping will not be tolerated.

AAFA also recognizes the diplomatic progress made in 2025. Following the administration’s efforts to broker a ceasefire in the Middle East, there has been an increase in ships transiting the Red Sea. On November 4, 2025 the chairman of the Suez Canal Authority reported that traffic through the waterway reached 229 ships in October — the highest monthly total since Houthi attacks began two years ago.

The threats to commercial shipping extend beyond the Houthis in the Red Sea, with attacks by Iranian forces and increased piracy in the region. Further, aggressive maneuvers and tension in the Indo-Pacific — particularly in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait —  endanger commercial shipping across a region that carries more than one-third of global trade.

Steve Lamar, American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA)

“There should be zero tolerance for attacks on commercial shipping, whether in the Red Sea, the Indo-Pacific, or elsewhere,” said Steve Lamar, president and CEO of AAFA.

“The global economy depends on the free, safe, and reliable movement of vessels across international waters.

“We greatly appreciate the steps the administration has taken to safeguard commercial shipping and encourage the continued prioritization of freedom of navigation through deterrence and diplomatic engagement.”

Posted: November 19, 2025

Source: American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)

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