EFI Adds Experienced Executive Janice Chaffin To Board Of Directors

FREMONT, Calif. — November 8, 2018 — Electronics For Imaging Inc. (EFI) today announced the appointment of Janice Chaffin to its Board of Directors.

Chaffin is an experienced technology industry executive, specializing in strategic marketing and global operations. She has held several senior executive positions with Symantec Corp., including serving as group president of its consumer business unit from 2007 to 2013. Chaffin also serves on the boards of directors of Nasdaq-traded companies Synopsys Inc. and PTC Inc. She is an Advisory Council member for Illuminate Ventures and a member of the Board of Visitors for the UCLA Anderson School of Management. Previously she served on the boards of Informatica Corp. and International Game Technology, along with the Operating Committee of privately held Ancestry.com.

Gill Cogan, chairman of EFI’s Board of Directors, commented, “With her demonstrated expertise in global marketing, strategy, business development, R&D management and product development, Janice is an excellent addition to the EFI board.”

“I am excited about the opportunities ahead for EFI, and I look forward to contributing to the Company’s growth and strategic direction,” Chaffin said.

Commenting on the appointment, EFI CEO Bill Muir said: “Janice is a proven leader and innovator in the software and hardware industries. We look forward to benefiting from her expertise as we continue to grow our Company.”

Prior to leading Symantec’s consumer business unit, Chaffin served as the company’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer from 2006 to 2007, and as senior vice president and chief marketing officer from 2003 to 2006. Before joining Symantec, Chaffin worked for more than twenty years at Hewlett-Packard in a variety of management and marketing leadership positions. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of California, San Diego, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, and earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Los Angeles, where she was an Edward W. Carter Fellow.

Posted November 9, 2018

Source: Electronics For Imaging, Inc. (EFI)

Wiivv Appoints Head Of Footwear And 3D Products

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — November 8, 2018 — Wiivv announced today that Brett Ritter has been named vice president of Footwear and 3D Products, reporting to CEO and co-founder Shamil Hargovan. Ritter will lead the team that defines and produces the on-demand custom-made products that have garnered rave reviews from customers, and earned the brand record-holder status for the world’s two most funded 3D-printing projects on Kickstarter.

Ritter comes to Wiivv from PlusFoam Compound Technologies, where he led the environmentally friendly B Corporation-certified leader in providing alternatives to traditional rubber, foam and plastic to many industries, including footwear and to Wiivv for its new sandal footbeds. He is a former vice president of Product at Reef, a division of VF Corp., and also held senior executive roles at FreeStyle USA and Deckers Brands. Ritter has a degree in Industrial Design from California State University at Long Beach.

“We’re pleased to welcome Brett to the Wiivv team at an exciting moment of growth for the company, after working closely with him on our product roadmap over the past two years,” said Hargovan. “As we expand our partnerships while also developing branded products beyond our insoles and sandals, Brett’s experience in research and development, automation, production and design is critical to our success.”

Ritter will be based in Santa Barbara, Calif., and will oversee Wiivv’s R&D and manufacturing facility in San Diego.

“The process of making shoes hasn’t experienced the technical evolution that so many other product categories have, despite customer demand for more offerings and solutions from brands they favor,” said Ritter. “Wiivv is the first brand to devise, sell and market custom-made footwear and insoles from a mobile capture platform, an advantage for us as consumers become familiar with and invest in mass customization.”

Posted November 9, 2018

Source: Wiivv

Hyosung Chairman Cho Hyun-Joon Holds First Overseas Road Show In Hong Kong And Singapore

SEOUL, South Korea — November 9, 2018 — Hyosung Chairman Cho Hyun-Joon announced on November 9 that Hyosung strengthened communication with overseas markets through “Corporate Day,” its company presentation for domestic institutional investors and analysts, and a “non-deal road show” for offshore institutional investors.

The meetings were attended by executives from 17 companies, including Goldman Sachs Asset Management, JP Morgan and Allianz. They displayed high interest in the business activities and directions of Hyosung Corp. and the affiliates it spun off in June. “Chairman Cho Hyun-Joon’s determination to improve communication with markets was highly praised. The presentations will be of much help to the assessment of Hyosung’s intrinsic value,” an industry source said, suggesting Hyosung should hold a road show abroad regularly.

Chairman Cho Hyun-Joon said he would keep trying hard after the spin-off to create values and enhance shareholder value on the basis of Hyosung’s technological competitiveness. Hyosung Corp. said that as a control tower of the group, it is focusing on the preparation of business portfolio and the enhancement of brand value. Four subsidiaries vowed to increase management transparency and at the same time concentrate on promoting corporate value as independent entities.

Hyosung TNC presented a plan to complete the construction of a spandex factory in India, for which it broke ground in June, and its marketing strategy for the home market of the South Asian nation. Hyosung Chemical unveiled a plan to expand its polypropylene business in South East Asia, propelled by Hyosung Vina Chemicals it established in Vietnam early this year. Hyosung Advanced Materials vowed to concentrate on tire cord markets in Vietnam, India, Thailand and other Asian countries. Hyosung Heavy Industries explained a vision to go beyond domestic energy storage systems (ESS) market it dominates to the global market by fusing power conversion system (PCS) and power management system (PMS) technologies it developed on its own.

Posted November 9, 2018

Source: Hyosung Corporation

Techtextil And Texprocess 2019: Almost Fully Booked Up

FRANKFURT — November 8, 2018 — With around six months still to go before they open their doors, the trade-fair duo of Techtextil and Texprocess is almost fully booked up. The number of registrations received for the two fairs, to be held May 14-17, 2019, is already significantly over that of the previous editions. Although companies can still register to exhibit at both events, they should not delay as the remaining exhibition space is limited.

Techtextil with a broad spectrum for all areas of application

To date, around 1,000 companies from 54 countries have registered for Techtextil 2019. The exhibitors at Techtextil present the complete spectrum of technical textiles and nonwovens. Next year will see a significant increase in the fields of technology and fibres & yarns. Also very well represented are suppliers of woven fabrics, coated textiles and functional apparel textiles. The exhibitors show fibre-based products for all areas of applications, in particular, an expanded range for the industry, for architecture and civil engineering, apparel, mobility, medicine, sport and hazard protection.

Texprocess shows the entire textile processing chain

With over 250 registrations already received from 31 countries, the concurrent Texprocess presents the complete spectrum of textile processing technologies from design, via cutting, making, trimming, textile digital printing, dressing and finishing, to textile logistics and textile recycling. In the case of Texprocess, too, there is only a limited amount of exhibition space still available.

New Techtextil Forum: deadline for programme proposals approaching rapidly

With the Techtextil Forum, Techtextil 2019 will have a new platform for the exchange of ideas and information between exhibitors and trade visitors, as well as researchers, developers and users of technical textiles. Techtextil Forum will be held within the framework of the fair, on all four days and free of charge for all trade-fair participants. Proposals for lectures, discussions and workshops can still be submitted until 16 November.

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: Messe Frankfurt

ANDRITZ To Supply A Complete Needlepunch Line To Spain-based Grupo SARI (Rubi Industrial)

GRAZ, Austria — November 8, 2018 — International technology Group ANDRITZ has received an order from Grupo SARI (Rubi Industrial), to supply a neXline needlepunch line for the production of needlepunched felts. The line will process several types of raw material such as polyester, polypropylene, bi-component fibers, and viscose, and will produce needlepunched felts for technical markets including automotive, construction and filtration. The line is scheduled for start-up towards the end of 2018.

The scope of supply includes all of the machines and equipment — from opening and blending to the end of line. The line incorporates cutting-edge ANDRITZ technologies and equipment, such as:

  • a TCF-X high-capacity chute feed;
  • an eXcelle Dynamic card;
  • a Dynamic Crosslapper;
  • the state-of-the-art ProDyn and Isolayer systems for weight evenness;
  • a drafter; and
  • high-speed needlelooms A50.

Grupo SARI (Rubi Industrial), headquartered in Rubi, Spain, is specialized in the manufacture of nonwoven fabrics. The company has several plants in Spain and France and distributes its products mainly in Europe. It has gradually expanded its presence in various technical sectors (such as automotive, filtration, or construction) through key investments as well as increasing its R&D capabilities and continues to focus on developing its competencies in these markets to gain further relevance as a key producer of nonwovens.

In pursuit of this objective, Grupo SARI will launch this needlepunching line, with state-of-the-art ANDRITZ technology and versatile capabilities to offer a wide range of products, in order to provide the most appropriate solutions for each of the technical markets mentioned above.

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: ANDRITZ

17 New ASTM International Proficiency Testing Program Accreditations Bring Total To 45

W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — November 8, 2018 — Today, ASTM International announced the addition of accreditation for the globally-recognized American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) for 17 of its proficiency testing programs.

The new accreditations cover programs including:

  • Diesel exhaust fluid;
  • Octane;
  • Polyethylene plastics;
  • Thermoplastics;
  • Stainless steel;
  • Aluminum;
  • Woven fabrics; and
  • Knit fabrics, and more.

“Labs that turn to ASTM International to help monitor their strengths and weaknesses throughout their organizations can enjoy increased confidence in knowing that their programs meet strict competency standards,” says Tim Brooke, vice president of laboratory services at ASTM.

The recent additions bring the total number of ASTM International programs that have achieved A2LA accreditation to 45, including cetane, engine coolants, biodiesel, and many more. More than 95 percent of ASTM’s proficiency testing programs have now been accredited.

Programs accredited through A2LA are assessed against criteria from a key standard: Conformity Assessment – General Requirements for Proficiency Testing (ISO/IEC 17043:2010).

More than 5,000 laboratories use ASTM’s statistical quality assurance tools in the proficiency testing programs.

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: ASTM International

Jabil, Recovery Force Advance Blood-Clot Prevention With New E-Textile Technology

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — November 8, 2018 — Today, Jabil unveiled a collaboration with Recovery Force to advance next-generation wearable medical technology. Praised as “a marvel of engineering” by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Recovery Force’s patented  technology delivers groundbreaking mobile compression to enhance circulation. The technology addresses a host of therapeutic conditions, including the prevention of blood clots (DVT) and reduction of post-operative pain as well as alleviating joint pain and sore muscles.

Jabil helped Recovery Force develop this platform technology, which embeds shape-changing memory fibers into various garments and footwear to produce therapeutic compressions. While this achievement on its own is a great clinical advancement, Recovery Force accomplishes this in a comfortable, lightweight and mobile form factor without requiring bladders, pumps, cords or electrical stimulation.

“Our technology lets patients and consumers be mobile, giving them a much better experience and quality of life after surgery, sports performances or other activities,” said Recovery Force Co-founder and CEO Matt Wyatt.

Still, leaving the wires and tubes behind was no easy feat.”We needed help to accelerate the technology yet struggled to find the right mix of capabilities,” explained Recovery Force Co-founder and executive vice president Matt Wainscott. “What we really needed was a total turnkey solution.” Not only did Jabil understand the challenges of textile-integrated electronics, a team of global experts were adept at adhering to strict quality guidelines and ISO 13485:2016 certification.

With Jabil, Recovery Force discovered a a dedicated manufacturing partner capable of assembling the disparate pieces of a complex technology and textile puzzle. Strong collaboration ensured the wearable technology was rigid enough to include pulsating wires without compromising flexibility or comfort.

“Jabil and Recover Force have developed a medical device to reduce healthcare costs by improving patient outcomes and compliance, which has taken our products to the next level,” concluded  Wainscott. Recovery Force’s first product, a compression back device to enhance blood circulation, will pave the way for future products. That device is targeted for release in the first half of 2019, followed by a calf device later in the year.

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: Jabil

GAEBB Group BV Acquires Assets Of Charles Vögele

MUNICH, Germany — November 8, 2018 — GAEBB Group BV, a joint venture formed by Great American Group LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of B. Riley Financial Inc., and bebe stores inc. has acquired the rights to purchase the assets of European fashion retailer Charles Vögele GmbH.

GAEBB has purchased substantially all common stock and assets, including remaining store inventory and merchandise, real estate, intellectual property and certain other assets. The purchase of the Charles Vögele businesses in Slovenia and Hungary was completed by GAEBB Group on September 25, 2018, and the purchase of its Austrian shares was completed on November 6, 2018.

On October 22, 2018, Austrian insolvency administrators approved the Charles Vögele restructuring plan. As part of the restructuring plan, GA Europe, a division of Great American Group, is executing a store closure program which will enable the retailer to focus on its remaining profitable operations. This deal broadens Great American Group’s footprint across Europe with expanded presence in Austria, Slovenia and Hungary.

“Charles Vögele is one of the largest and well-known fashion retailers in Europe and is highly-regarded among its loyal customers,” said Dr. Tino Bauer, managing director of GA Europe. “We believe we are uniquely positioned to restore its value and breathe new life into this iconic brand through our deep retail advisory experience and operations management expertise. After completing the restructuring plan, we believe that the business can be continued on a profitable basis.”

“We’re excited to partner with GA Europe on this opportunity,” said Manny Mashouf, CEO of bebe stores. “Charles Vögele has a strong reputation in the consumer marketplace, and I believe our combined expertise allows us to take this unique investment opportunity and realize the value of this brand.”

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: Great American Group, LLC

INVISTA’s Orange, Texas, Site Sets ADN Production Record

ORANGE, Texas — November 7, 2018 — INVISTA’s site in Orange, Texas, set a 12-month production record for adiponitrile (ADN), a key ingredient for nylon 6,6 plastics and fibers.

“Since deployment of our most advanced ADN technology at the Orange site in 2014, the facility has consistently set production volume records,” said Bill Greenfield, president, INVISTA Intermediates. “In today’s market, every pound is really important to our customers and the industry. I’m proud the team has continued this production trend through the third quarter of 2018 with another 12-month record.”

The performance increases can be attributed to the company’s latest ADN technology, which was developed at INVISTA’s global R&D facilities and piloted at the Orange site where it has been deployed for nearly five years. The technology brings improved product yields, reduced energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced process stability and reduced capital intensity, compared to existing technologies.

Role of INVISTA’s advanced ADN technology in short-term support for the global nylon 6,6 value chain

INVISTA is deploying its latest ADN technology in existing facilities and working to optimize production to increase yield even further.

  • INVISTA Orange: Since deployment in 2014, improvements in performance have enabled the Orange facility to set numerous production volume records.
  • Butachimie (INVISTA joint venture with Solvay in France): Announced approval to deploy the latest technology in 2017. The project is scheduled to come online in 2019.
  • INVISTA Victoria: Announced $250 million project at Victoria site to upgrade its manufacturing technology and increase production of ADN. Targeted to come online in 2020.

INVISTA’s long-term support for the global nylon 6,6 value chain

INVISTA recently announced a new world-scale ADN plant that will be located in China. Engineering is underway for a minimum 300,000-ton plant at an estimated investment in excess of $1 billion. Construction is targeted for 2020 and production would begin in 2023.

Posted November 8, 2018

Source: INVISTA

Silver Nanoparticles And Boron Nitride To Help Get Rid Of Carbon Monoxide Emissions

MOSCOW — November 7, 2018 — Russian chemists from NUST MISIS have developed a new hybrid catalyst for carbon monoxide oxidation consisting of hexagonal boron nitride and silver nanoparticles. This material makes it possible to get a full conversion of carbon monoxide at only 194°C. As stated in the Journal of Catalysis, this temperature is nowhere near the process’s record temperatures, but in the future, chemists can reduce the temperature of catalysis more by increasing the concentration of silver in the hybrid material.

Carbon monoxide (carbonous oxide) is one of the most harmful gases to people, but the gas is everywhere as it is released through car engine exhaust. Catalytic converters, which oxidize the gas to non-toxic nitrogen dioxide through catalytic reactions, are typically used to get rid of cars’ carbon monoxide exhaust. However, due to the increase in the efficiency of modern engines and a decrease in the temperature of the exhaust gases, catalysts have dramatically lost efficiency and as a result, carbon monoxide content has increased in them.

To fight this effect, chemists are actively looking for new types of catalysts for CO oxidation that can work at relatively low temperatures — around 150-200°C. American scientists have recently developed a catalyst for the carbon monoxide oxidation of individual platinum atoms distributed over the surface of cerium oxide. Some materials have allowed scientists to oxidize CO with a lower rate of conversion at temperatures below 100 degrees.

A group of chemists from Russia and Australia led by NUST MISIS’s Professor Dmitri V. Golberg has discovered a new effective catalyst that can be used to convert carbon monoxide. Scientists had previously shown that hybrid materials based on hexagonal boron nitride and silver nanoparticles are promising for this purpose. Similar materials, where boron nitride served as a carrier matrix for metal nanoparticles of the catalyst, have also been proposed, including for carbon monoxide oxidation, but gold and platinum were previously thought to be the best metals to conduct oxidation.

It turns out that hybrid materials with cheaper silver nanoparticles are also a very effective catalyst. To obtain these silver nanoparticles, researchers used the decomposition reaction of silver nitrate under the effect of ultraviolet light in a solution of polyethylene glycol. This approach allows scientists to obtain monodisperse silver particles up to 10 nanometers in size, which are uniformly deposited on the surface of layered boron nitride and on the polymer matrix of polyethylene glycol.

Materials with the maximum concentration of silver nanoparticles, which amounted to about 1.4 percent by weight, turned out to be the most effective. Such a hybrid catalyst allows carbon monoxide to be oxidized to carbon dioxide at a temperature of just 194°C. This number is still far from record values, but according to the researchers, in the future the temperature of the catalyst’s work can be reduced further by increasing the concentration of silver nanoparticles, and in particular, by transforming them from the polymer matrix to boron nitride.

However, scientists do note that the current parameters of the catalyst only make it possible to use them to clean things like factories emitting harmful emissions. In the future, by reducing the temperature of the carbon monoxide conversion, these materials can also be used to reduce the ratio of carbon monoxide in vehicle emissions.

The development of catalysts for the oxidation of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide is relevant for the purification of harmful emissions as well as catalysts for other gas reactions-such as those to handle the decomposition of methane or to reduce carbon dioxide to hydrocarbons. Scientists around the globe are developing these catalysts to solve a number of technological and ecological issues.

You can read more about the most pressing issues of modern heterogeneous catalysis in the interview with British chemist Graham Hutchings.

Posted November 7, 2018

Source: National University of Science and Technology MISiS

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