BASF Performance Materials Co-Creates The Sustainable Future With Its Customers

WATERLOO, Belgium —August 29, 2024 — BASF’s Performance Materials division reveals its strategic roadmap toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and highlights key milestones on its way to a circular economy. With that, the division, which brings together BASF’s entire materials know-how regarding innovative and customized plastics, positions at the forefront of the much-needed sustainability transformation in plastics.

“We want to enable our customers’ transformation by offering a portfolio with lower carbon footprint and diverse circular solutions. We work through the entire lifecycle of plastics to make them more sustainable: from how to produce plastics more resource-efficiently, to how to improve their use, to how to give them a new life” said Martin Jung, president, BASF Performance Materials. “We call this transformation #ourplasticsjourney. With our roadmap, we are laying an important foundation to make this transformation go faster.”

Accelerating the journey towards carbon neutrality and climate protection

BASF has set clear targets to reduce carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2030 compared to 2018 (scope 1 and 21) and by 15 percent compared to 2022 for the scope 3.12, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The first and imperative step of the company’s carbon management strategy is to increase the use of green electricity.

“In 2023 already, more than one-third of our Performance Materials sites worldwide were running on green electricity and we are making relentless efforts to switch them all completely by 2025,” Jung said.

Green electricity also plays an essential role earlier in BASF’s value chain, particularly in the scope 3.1. One of BASF’s suppliers, 3B Fibreglass, supplies the company with glass fibers that are used as reinforcement for thermoplastic and thermoset polymers. By utilizing solar panels to generate electricity, 3B Fibreglass significantly reduces its carbon emissions. As a result, the glass fiber’s reduced product carbon footprint is transferred to BASF’s products and ultimately to its customers. This showcases the potential of a circular economy when all stakeholders are committed to sustainability.

Supporting customers with certified sustainable solutions

BASF is actively certifying its manufacturing sites globally with the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS and REDCert². Most Performance Materials sites are certified in at least one scheme and additional sites will be certified in all regions by the end of 2024.

These schemes certify the amount of renewable raw materials that is attributed to biomass balanced (BMB) products. These renewable feedstocks replace a part of the fossil raw materials necessary for the production at the very beginning of the value chain. The process ensures identical product quality and properties. Thus, customers can use the materials as drop-in solutions. The same applies to chemically recycled feedstocks like pyrolysis oil from scrap tires or mixed plastic waste.

“Today, a majority of our product portfolio is already available based on renewable feedstocks and with significantly lower or even net-zero product carbon footprints. We want to support customers as early as possible on the journey to meet their sustainability targets and offer diverse circularity options,” added Matthias Scheibitz, head of Sustainability, BASF Performance Materials.

Ambitious target for a more circular product portfolio

To increase the use of circular feedstock in its product portfolio, BASF is looking into the most promising mass balance solutions, thereby meeting customer expectations from all industries. On its sustainability journey, BASF Performance Materials commits to reaching at least 20 percent of circular economy sales by 2030 (via products that support the substitution of fossil by circular feedstock by at least 20 percent). A strong contributor to this target already is BASF’s biopolymer portfolio which is the optimal solution for certified compostable packaging and agricultural applications. Biopolymers contribute to closing the biological loop by reducing food waste, increasing organic recycling of organic waste, returning nutrients to the soil and avoiding the accumulation of microplastics in agricultural soil.

Wide range of commercially available sustainable solutions and co-creations

BASF Performance Materials views co-creation with customers and partners from all along its diverse value chains as the cornerstone of sustainability efforts within the plastics industry. “For us, it is essential to offer our customers commercial and series-ready, sustainable solutions and inspire them with what is possible today,” Jung said.

Circularity needs to be deeply embedded into the product design phase. As an example, BASF Performance Materials has recently developed an innovative polyurethane (PU) foam technology that enables simplified and scalable mechanical recycling. First steering wheel prototypes using this new technology were recently presented publicly in Europe and in China.

The Siemens SIRIUS 3RV2 circuit breaker is the first electrical safety product to include components from biomass-balanced plastics where fossil feedstock at the beginning of the value chain is replaced by biomethane derived from renewable sources such as agricultural waste. In a similar way, BASF collaborated on the Steelcase’s Flex Perch Stool using plastics derived from a chemical recycling process, preventing incineration or landfill. In other cases, bio-based and recycled raw materials are used complementarily. Developed with Mercedes-Benz AG, the door handle and the crash absorber of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class combine pyrolysis oil from scrap tires and biomethane from organic waste to replace fossil raw materials in manufacturing these plastics with virgin material properties.

For the packaging industry, BASF is also offering a way to increase the use of renewable feedstocks. Its portfolio of certified compostable biopolymers now includes a biomass-balance grade. Next to being organically recyclable, it also shows a 60-percent lower Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) than the respective standard grade.

Finally, a comprehensive portfolio of engineering plastics and polyurethanes with a significantly reduced carbon footprint (PCF) is available. Some of these LowPCF products reach a CO2 footprint close to zero, proving once again that a sustainability future with plastics is within reach.

Posted: August 29, 2024

Source: BASF Performance Materials

Oerlikon Celebrates 20 Years Of E-Save — The Sustainability Program Of Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division

REMSCHEID, Germany—August 29, 2024 — More than 15 million tons of CO2 savings in 20 years — that is the balance sheet of e-save — the sustainability program of today’s Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division. As a supplier of manmade fiber plant technologies, the company has been developing, producing and launching its products and services with sustainability in mind since 2004: ‘Energy’ savings and ‘Efficiency’ of systems, machines and components, ‘Environment’ relief and improved ‘Ergonomics’ for optimal machine operation are the four e-save topics that have provided fiber and yarn manufacturers with significant added value in terms of economy, safety and process handling right from the start. The pioneers of today’s brands Oerlikon Barmag, Oerlikon Neumag and Oerlikon Nonwoven were already true pioneers in terms of sustainability.

The e-save logo is awarded to components and machines from Oerlikon Barmag, Oerlikon Neumag and Oerlikon Nonwoven that are significantly more sustainable than the market standard or predecessor models.

Rising energy prices, scarce resources, an ageing society, a shortage of skilled workers and lower profit margins in many industries prove Oerlikon’s e-save mission right. For 20 years, the technology leader in man-made fiber production has been scoring points with significantly lower energy consumption compared to the market standard, the competition or its own predecessor models. Fiber and yarn manufacturers around the world appreciate this, as investments in new systems developed according to e-save criteria pay for themselves in a much shorter time.

“Topics such as energy efficiency and the careful use of resources have become increasingly important for all our customers in recent years, not least due to stricter legal framework conditions,” said Georg Stausberg, CEO of the Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division. “Our e-save sustainability program and the associated technology development over the last two decades has often given us the decisive advantage in numerous investment decisions on the customer side and thus the edge over the competition.”

More than 15 million tons of CO2 saved since the introduction of e-save

The Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division and its business units have been subject to DIN ISO certification for decades, they realize the CE marking and consistently implement the strict guide-lines for machine safety, especially in terms of protecting employees on the customer side. At the beginning of the millennium, however, this was no longer enough. The company and its managers wanted to voluntarily do even more with a view to the future. As a result, the e-save program was launched in 2004.

Since its introduction, hundreds of man-made fiber spinning mills worldwide have been equipped with technology solutions from Oerlikon Barmag, Oerlikon Neumag and Oerlikon Nonwoven. Around half of the currently installed production capacity for polyester, polypropylene and nylon is based on Oerlikon technologies. According to an estimate by the publication “The Fiber Year 2024”, this corresponds to almost 40 million tons of fibers and yarn annually. The corresponding CO2 balance is impressive: The e-save certified customer installations saved, cumulatively over the last 20 years, over 15 million tons of CO2. This is roughly equivalent to the emissions generated by around 15 million intercontinental passenger flights per capita, or the amount that a forest with a surface area of 300 km² —  roughly the size of Munich, Germany — can store.

Efficient heating and cooling creates energy-saving potential 

What did the engineers focus on in the beginning? Heat is a crucial factor in polymer spinning systems. Polyester melt is conveyed from the polycondensation plant to the spinning system at temperatures between 280 and 290 degrees Celsius. The hot filament coming out of the spinnerets is then cooled in the quenching unit before being drawn on hot godets, depending on the process.

Jochen Adler, CTO of the Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division.

“All of this has the potential to optimize energy consumption: WINGS POY (Winding Integrated Godet Solution) revolutionized the man-made fiber industry at ITMA 2007. The completely new winding concept already showed the potential to turn the entire industry upside down. All market participants were enthusiastic from day one,” says Jochen Adler, CTO of the Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division. Chinese companies in particular already saw the technology that would make them global pioneers in the manmade fiber industry. Five years later, WINGS FDY conquered the market with even more e-save advantages, especially in the area of energy savings. The Oerlikon Barmag innovation achieved over 40-percent lower energy consumption compared to the industry standard at the time. The return on investment (ROI) was and still is achieved very quickly. The best technology with the highest quality is therefore also worthwhile from an economic point of view. In addition to the Oerlikon Barmag core technology WINGS — today an indispensable part of a modern man-made fiber spinning mill — the company has set standards over the years with other components in the field of energy savings.

Benchmark market in the industry

The SP8x spinning head series, for example, is based on a reduced heat-radiating surface with significantly improved insulation, resulting in more than 40-percent less heat loss compared to its predecessor models. In concrete figures, this means energy savings of around 200,000 kWh per year for a system with 36 positions. The component therefore remains the benchmark in the industry.

“The EvoQuench radial quenching system is a real cash cow thanks to its up to 80-percent lower air conditioning requirement. In combination with the WINGS take-up system, up to 46-percent energy and around 50 percent waste can be saved compared to conventional technology, depending on the process,” said Adler. The latter is mainly due to the ergonomically unique concept of the take-up unit: The component is placed at eye level in record time; only one operator is required.

The sister company Oerlikon Neumag also contributed corresponding e-save components at an exceedingly early stage. For example, the BCF tangle unit RoTac3 enables high energy savings through its targeted use of compressed air. Tangle knots are created with a pulsating rather than a continuous airflow, as is the case with conventional tangle processes. This means that compressed air is only ever used when a tangle knot is to be created. This significantly reduces the required volume flow or compressed air consumption — by up to 50 percent compared to conventional tangle units, depending on the yarn type. The component is naturally installed in Oerlikon Neumag’s BCF S8 carpet yarn system, the most modern of its kind in the world. It makes a significant contribution to the energy-efficient production of carpet yarns. However, the system also convinces with impressive data thanks to the overall concept: Plant efficiency of 99 percent, higher throughputs of up to 15 percent and energy savings of up to 5 percent per kilogram of yarn.

Less energy – more productivity

Compared to standard DTY machines, the Oerlikon Barmag eAFK Evo offers 30-percent higher productivity with 20-percent less energy consumption per kilogram of textured yarn. The significant increase in machine speed and the 50-percent shorter texturing zone compared to a conventional machine ensure an exception-ally stable texturing process that enables maximum productivity and the lowest operating costs. The core component of the machine is the EvoCooler, whose sustainable cooling principle is based on the evaporation of water. This active cooling technology with direct contact to the yarn is independent of the ambient temperature and requires no additional energy. In addition, the low heat emission to the environment reduces the requirements for hall air conditioning. The collected coolant is recirculated and can therefore be recycled.

“Precisely coordinated process steps in the textile value chain also offer potential in terms of efficiency. One example is the WINGS POY HD and eAFK Big V high-titer concept, which is designed for a carpet and home textile product range that uses particularly soft and bulky polyester yarns with BCF-like properties. The aim here is to produce yarns with a maximum count of 1200den with over 1000 filaments. As standard, DTY yarns up to 1200den with up to 1152 filaments from four POY bob-bins 300den/288f are spun together on a DTY machine,” said Jochen Adler. However, the process has a fundamental disadvantage: half of the available winding positions on a texturing machine re-main unused. This is where the spinning concept with a WINGS POY HD take-up unit in combination with an automatic eAFK Big V multi-spindle texturing machine offers a highly efficient solution — currently the only one on the market.

Water – a contested resource

The most recent example of sustainable e-save technology is the Oerlikon Neumag EvoSteam staple fiber system. Here too, the relevant process steps in terms of sustainability were already addressed during development.

The most recent example of a sustainable e-save technology is the Oerlikon Neumag EvoSteam staple fiber plant. Here, too, the relevant process steps in terms of sustainability were already taken into account during development. The innovative process does not require water baths. The result: water savings of up to 3.5 million liters per year, significantly lower consumption of drying energy and preparation, and ultimately a reduction in the CO2 footprint of up to 20 percent. An optimized draw point release makes the EvoSteam staple fiber system up to 12-percent more efficient than previous concepts. Overall, the EvoSteam process reduces production waste by up to 50 percent while at the same time saving up to 8 percent energy.

Another example: the pollution of water by dyeing textiles is a much-discussed topic. With the help of the 3DD mixer technology once developed at Oerlikon Barmag, manmade fiber production offers the injection of color pigments as a masterbatch as early as the melt preparation stage — this really is an exceptionally clean alternative. A nice side effect: the dyeing of these spun-dyed yarns is much more uniform than bath dyeing of bobbins or textile surfaces, and the color fastness is unsurpassed. In addition, the spun material retains its color almost forever.

Last but not least — the entire textile industry is striving for solutions for a functioning and all-encompassing circular economy. Together with its joint venture partner BB Engineering, Oerlikon Barmag already has at least one solution for a zero waste man-made fiber spinning mill on offer. With the help of the VacuFil technology, production waste can be reprocessed to a high quality in the spinning mill so that the waste material can be directly reintroduced into the melt flow.

On top: bluesign® certification

A good 20 years after the introduction of the e-save label as a voluntary commitment by Oerlikon, the company is following suit and is also subjecting itself to the assessment of independent institutes such as the Swiss bluesign Technologies AG as part of the ESG criteria that have been legally binding for a few years now.

Last year, the Oerlikon Neumag EvoSteam staple fiber plant was awarded the bluesign® VERIFIED DATA label. The label includes the verification of impact data such as water, spinning preparations, thermal and electrical energy as well as the CO2 footprint by means of a plausibility check of the supporting records for the EvoSteam draw frame, the central element in the EvoSteam process. For yarn manufacturers, this means that all polyester staple fibers produced with the EvoSteam process will actively contribute to the bluesign SYSTEM in the future.

Georg Stausberg, CEO of the Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division and CSO of the Swiss Oerlikon Group.

“The trend towards greater sustainability is no longer just a trend, but a must for the industry and all market participants worldwide. With a view to the European Green Deal, we are creating even more transparency for our customers through external certifications such as bluesign in addition to our own e-save label. In this way, we are intensively strengthening trust in all our products and services,” explainsedGeorg Stausberg, who in addition to his role as division CEO is also chief sustainability officer (CSO) of the Swiss Oerlikon Group.

Posted: August 29, 2024

Source: Oerlikon Group / Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division

 

Polartec Continues ‘Beyond Begins Today’ Mini Series With Launch Of Chapter 2: People

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — August 28, 2024 —  Polartec®, a Milliken & Company brand and the premium creator of innovative and more sustainable textile solutions, introduces PEOPLE, the second chapter in Polartec’s multifaceted Beyond Begins Today campaign. Featuring Sierra Quitiquit — pro skier, influencer and environmental activist — 66°North CEO Helgi Oskarsson, CEO,  and Tyler Maheu, senior account manager, Polartec, chapter two explores the role of people and how each individual’s voice contributes to building a more sustainable future.

As a global initiative through which Polartec aims to raise awareness and unity around important universal themes including sustainability, diversity and positive change, Beyond Begins Today leverages static and multimedia content published on multiple touchpoints and channels throughout the year. Chapter 2: People, is the second of three chapters that comprise this global initiative, with the first and third chapters dedicated to Planet and Product respectively. Viewed singularly or as a whole, the content is rooted in the underlying premise that the future is what we make it; extending to the fundamental belief that if we change behaviors, we can change the narrative. For our Planet. For our People. For our Products.

A quiet thread runs through our collective effort to weave a more sustainable world. As individuals our actions are more than moments in time, they are conduits for change. Because we are inherently connected to the world around us, each of us can adopt a more holistic approach to environmental responsibility. For people, by people. With the aim of reducing our impact and leaving the world better than we found it.

In the journey of endless improvement, and relentless innovation, there is no finish line.

We are the scientists, engineers and makers.

The runners, riders and hikers…

Shaped by authentic, ethical, and forward-thinking principles

Each of us contributes to weaving the fabric of life

Because it’s the journey that counts; not the destination.

Eric Yung, managing director at Polartec, said: “Time and time again, Polartec has demonstrated its steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of the people who wear us. Our promise to improve, innovate and evolve is not easy; it is part of our responsibility to the athetes, adventurers, enthusiasts and all the authentic, ethical and progressive thinkers who trust Polartec to help weave a better future.”

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: Polartec, a Milliken & Company Brand

Dahsheng Chemical Introduces DREAMCELL® RCP AER 23C Insole: A Breakthrough In Breathability And Water Resistance

PORTLAND, Ore. —August 28, 2024 — Dahsheng Chemical (DSC®), a performance foam manufacturer, launches its latest innovation, DREAMCELL® RCP AER 23C, at the NE and NW Materials Shows, as well as Lineapelle in Milan. DREAMCELL RCP AER 23C proves that a performance insole can be breathable and water resistant, with a premium finish and texture that users demand.

“Dahsheng Chemical (DSC) leads innovation in creating a new, proprietary foam formulation for the DREAMCELL RCP AER 23C insole,” said Mei-fen Wei, COO of Dahsheng Chemical. “The innovation behind the DREAMCELL RCP AER 23C insole lies in our proprietary technology that enhances surface micro pores, significantly boosting airflow and ensuring ultimate breathability and comfort with every step.”[KM1]

Dahsheng Chemical (DSC®) introduces proprietary innovation DREAMCELL® RCP AER 23C insole with next level breathability.

Designed to keep the user dry through dew, fog, or a light drizzle, the foam innovation resists moisture penetration. The micro pores facilitate airflow and breathability, resulting in ultimate comfort. On the surface, the proprietary formulation creates a premium microporous texture and an appealing smooth finish. In line with DSC’s commitment to sustainability and its sustainable business plan, Run the Relay, the DREAMCELL RCP AER 23C is crafted with sustainability in mind, generating nearly zero waste during its production.

Since its founding in 1945, Dahsheng Chemical has been a leader in foam innovation for the sports and bedding industries. Known for its premium comfort and performance foam DURAPONTEX and DREAMCELL, DSC partners with top brands and footwear manufacturers worldwide. By advancing innovation and pushing the limits of foam manufacturing, DSC is dedicated to creating eco-friendly solutions and advanced foam solutions that set new standards in the industry.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: Dahsheng Chemical (DSC®)

Huntsman Launches AVALON® GECKO TPU – Engineered For Ultimate Grip In Footwear

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — August 28, 2024 — Huntsman has developed a new range of innovative, high-performing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials for the footwear industry that offer game-changing possibilities for soling applications. The new AVALON® GECKO TPU portfolio offers a series of products that have exceptional grip and durability and have been developed with circularity in mind. Tailor made for use in high performance soling applications, the range includes an extrudable grade for creating super thin outsoles and a product that can be foamed to produce a very low density and super soft material with a unique touch and feel.

Drawing inspiration from the extraordinary grip of geckos, products in the AVALON GECKO TPU portfolio offer comparable slip performance to rubber in both wet and dry conditions. A great choice for outsoles for running, hiking and safety shoes, the new GECKO TPU portfolio contains products that are soft (shore 60-65A) yet highly durable with excellent abrasion resistance.

To help ensure ultimate design and production versatility for its customers, Huntsman has developed three grades of AVALON GECKO TPU:

  • AVALON 6044 AG — an opaque, injectable grade that is ideal for safety shoes
  • AVALON 6053 AG — a transparent, extrusion grade optimized for running applications
  • AVALON 6055 AG — a transparent, injectable grade for exceptional wet slip performance.

The extrudable GECKO grade, AVALON 6053 AG TPU represents a major step forward in footwear — enabling the creation of outsoles that are up to 50-percent thinner and lighter than conventional outsoles, without compromising quality, performance or durability. The injectable AVALON 6044 AG grade has been developed to offer fast cycle times for improved productivity.

In addition, all AVALON GECKO TPU grades offer adhesive-free bonding when paired with other TPU midsole materials and, thanks to their compatibility, can be mechanically recycled with minimal impact on material performance*. They can also be easily colored and engineered to create different textures and surface finishes.

Matthew Canoy, Global Marketing director PU Elastomers at Huntsman, said: “The development of AVALON GECKO TPU represents a significant advancement towards achieving circular footwear. Developed to be dependable, durable, and with circularity in mind, AVALON GECKO TPU materials ensure that sustainability and high performance are in lock step with one another, with no compromises. The feedback we’ve received from customers that have tested AVALON GECKO TPU products has been incredibly positive. We are excited to launch the range and continue our conversations with footwear brands that want to get a gecko-like grip in their soling applications.”

AVALON GECKO TPU was officially launched at the NW Materials Show in Portland, Ore., on August 28, 2024.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: Huntsman Corp.

Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics Launches New Healthcare Fabric At Healthcare Design (HCD) Conference + Expo

TRELLEBORG, Sweden  —August 28, 2024 — Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics will launch a new fabric from its Dartex® Endurance range for healthcare seating at the upcoming Healthcare Design (HCD) Conference + Expo, on booth 1412 at the Indiana Conference Center in Indianapolis from October 5-8, 2024.

The new Dartex® END464-E fabric collection is expertly crafted for the healthcare furniture sector, providing exceptional durability and resilience against harsh chemical cleaning agents. This innovative fabric uses advanced polymer technology to ensure a long-lasting product lifespan and is made from 100-percent recycled yarn, certified to Global Recycled Standard. Attendees can view samples of this remarkable material range during the conference.

Antony Croston, director of Healthcare and Medical at Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics, emphasizes the importance of this event stating: “The HCD Conference is a prominent event for professionals dedicated to the advancement of healthcare design. Following the success of our inaugural exhibition at the show last year, we believe HCD is the perfect springboard to launch Dartex® END464-E to the healthcare interiors audience. We look forward to sharing samples and working with furniture manufacturers to bring this product to the wider US furniture market.”

Additionally, Trelleborg representatives — Christina Tenney, business development manager North America, and Katie Pearce, head of Marketing Healthcare and Medical — will deliver a presentation titled “Where Skin Meets Fabric: Coated Textile Benefits for Healthcare Spaces” at The Solutions Theater on Monday, October 7, from 1:45 pm to 2:15 pm. This session will explore the benefits of coated textiles in healthcare environments, offering valuable knowledge to healthcare professionals, interior designers, and healthcare furniture manufacturers.

For more information about the Dartex® Endurance range or to speak with a representative, visit booth 1412 at the HCD Conference + Expo or visit https://www.trelleborg.com/en/engineered-coated-fabrics.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics

Digitalization, AI And Regulatory Challenges To Take The Center Stage At ITMF Annual Conference And IAF World Fashion Convention

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan  —August 28, 2024 — The ITMF Annual Conference and IAF World Fashion Convention, the largest international textile and fashion event, has announced its business program. The event will be held in Samarkand from September 8-10, 2024.

The conference, titled “Innovation, Cooperation, and Regulation — Driving Forces of the Textile and Apparel Industry,” will highlight the world’s most pressing issues and trends in the global textile industry through expert discussions and multiple panel sessions.

The event, organized in cooperation with the Uztextileprom Association, will bring together over 500 industry professionals, including representatives of leading international textile companies, brands, financial institutions, and retailers.

The first day will be devoted to fibers, with the production and processing of raw cotton at the core of the discussion. During the panel, experts from Indorama Corp. (Singapore), Global Textile (Uzbekistan), and Cotton Analytics (USA) will discuss the path of cotton from field to fashion, as well as Uzbekistan’s journey from tradition to innovation and the changes that have occurred in the global cotton industry over the past 50 years. The second part will focus on man-made fiber production and the scarcity of natural materials in the global textile industry.

The second and main day of the conference will address a wide range of topical issues and global trends. Euratex (Belgium) will present the EU Strategy for Sustainable Textiles and prospects for international cooperation, while Steve Lamar from the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA, USA) will highlight the regulatory outlook in the United States. The emphasis will be on digitalization, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the textile production chain, and addressing the skills shortage in the textile industry. Participants will discuss digital labeling with AAFA (USA) and the digitalization of distribution with Christian Lott from DMIx (Germany). Additionally, the role of AI in resolving the skills shortage in the textile industry will be covered during this session. The second day will conclude with a vibrant light and fashion show at the Registan Complex.

The joint conference will conclude with the ITMF Awards and ITMF Start-up Award ceremony, recognizing outstanding achievements and start-ups in the global textile industry. The final session on collaboration will bring together representatives from Inditex (Spain), Epic Group (Hong Kong, China), and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to discuss the future of sustainability and waste reduction measures.

At the end of the business agenda, delegates will enjoy a rich cultural program, including visits to local textile factories and the ancient city of Bukhara, one of the key hubs of the Great Silk Road.

As a follow-up to the international dialogue of textile industry leaders, the Global Textile Dialog forum will be held in Tashkent on September 13, 2024, where local and international organizations will gather again.To register for the event and get more information, please visit the website.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) / The International Apparel Federation (IAF)

eVent Fabrics® Prepares For A PFAS-Free Future, Offers eVent BIO And eVent alpineST Laminates

KANSAS CITY, Mo. —August 28, 2024 — eVent Fabrics, a global supplier of waterproof and breathable technologies, is looking to the future and offering their partner brands eVent BIO and eVent alpineST technologies. Both are made without PFAS and are compliant with regulations requiring the removal of PFAS chemicals from many consumer products.

As the European Union and a growing list of U.S. states phase out PFAS, eVent is uniquely positioned to offer a high level of breathable waterproof performance that will comply with new regulations.

“We look at sustainability as a journey, more than a destination,” said Chad Kelly, president of eVent Fabrics. “We continuously pursue the most sustainable options possible while ensuring our laminate fabric technologies deliver the high level of performance our customers demand. We are proud to report that eVent BIO and alpineST — both made without the use of PFAS — accomplish exactly that.”

PFAS-compliant eVent BIO and alpineST both provide long-lasting solutions for demanding apparel, footwear, and accessory applications.

eVent BIO

eVent BIO is a bio-based membrane technology that uses sustainable materials to provide the all-weather protection and performance users have come to expect from eVent fabrics. At the laminate technology’s core are highly renewable plant-based and biomass elements paired with smartly-sourced or recycled face and backer fabrics. Light, tough and flexible, eVent BIO has a reduced carbon footprint and is recyclable when it reaches the end of its lifecycle.

alpineST

alpineST is a sustainable alternative to ePTFE products that provides first-rate waterproofness, breathability, and protection in the harshest environments. Created with the planet in mind, alpineST products are built around a fluorine-free membrane laminated to recycled face fabrics. With an initial waterproofness of 25K, alpineST maintains a water column of 20K after dozens of washes.

eVent Fabrics offers a full range of PFAS-free laminate options for apparel, footwear and accessories to help ensure trusted performance in the field and compatibility with global textile recycling standards. All laminate materials are smartly sourced and feature a C0 DWR finish.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: eVent Fabrics

63rd Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress & 4th Innovation Days September 11 – 13, 2024, Dornbirn Austria

VIENNA, Austria — August 27, 2024 — The 63rd Dornbirn GFC 2024 is characterized by the energy transition and presents innovative solutions for the textile industry. The presentations on the main topic “Energy Solutions” during the three-day congress will start with a plenary lecture on the opening day.

Countdown To Kickoff

The excitement is building, and there’s not much time left to be part of the action! Only 15 Days and 21 hours left to register for the upcoming Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Dornbirn GFC’s incredible journey this year!

  • Program Highlights:

Rudolf Zauner, a VERBUND AG’s expert in renewable energies, will kick off the opening day with a compelling plenary lecture on this crucial topic. As the industry moves towards further decarbonization. Zauner will dive into innovative energy solutions and explore how the collaboration between industry, energy suppliers, and start-ups can maintain competitiveness while driving sustainability.

  • Energy Innovations Session:

In collaboration with the Institute for Textile Technology of RWTH Aachen University (ITA) and their industrial partners, this session will offer an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge energy solutions. Prof. Thomas Gries highlights the importance of these innovations for a sustainable future, stating: “By combining natural principles with advanced technologies, we can tackle some of the most critical energy challenges of our time.

  • Prof. Sauer (RWTH Aachen University):
    • The Future Energy System – A comprehensive look at the future supply of electricity and material energy sources.
  • Munib Amin (E.ON Group Innovation GmbH):
    • The Future Energy System – Insights into the evolving landscape of energy supply and innovation.
  • Thomas Riegler (A EnBW Company):
    • Renewable Energy – A Systemic Perspective and New Business Models Needed – Discussing the integration of renewable energy within systemic frameworks and the business models that will drive this transition.

Prof. Thomas Gries emphasizes the importance of these innovations for a sustainable future, stating: “By combining natural principles with advanced technologies, we can tackle some of the most critical energy challenges of our time.”

  • EU Regulations Update:

Stay informed with the latest on the European policy and regulatory landscape for the textile industry. Cornelia Mohor from the European Commission will address upcoming EU regulations and their impact on textile products on Wednesday, September 11.

  • Expanded Programme for 2024:

This year’s congress offers 125 specialist presentations over three days, covering a wide array of topics including Biopolymers, Biomaterials, High Performance, New Technologies, and Circular Economy and Recycling.

  • Green washing -Where does it start, where does it end: The truth behind words:

Vocabulary for circular economy and sustainability can be misused. Dimitiry Deheyn, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, will provide definitions for these meaningful words and indicate the specific framework for which they should be used.

  • 4th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days:

The Dornbirn GFC is a great opportunity for innovators and the most important players in the fibre and textile industry come together. Meet 25 innovative companies and start-ups – form 1st to 3rd level at the 4th Dornbirn GFC Innovation Days.

Programme: https://www.dornbirn-gfc.com/de/programm/4-innovations-tage

Dornbirn GFC, live in person in Dornbirn, from September 11-13, 2024

Dornbirn GFC online on demand from September 16-30, 2024. Presentations as videos and the presentations for download as PDF files.

Information + Programme: www.dornbirn-gfc.com

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: Austrian Fibers Institute

Winners Of The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) Awards 2024 Announced

ZÜRICH, Switzerland —August 27, 2024 —

The ITMF Awards 2024 are presented in two categories:

  • ITMF Sustainability & Innovation Award
  • ITMF International Collaboration Award

The winners will present their projects at the upcoming ITMF & IAF Conference 2024 which will be held from September 8-10, 2024, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan and will be co-hosted by the Uzbek Textile & Apparel Industry Association (UZTS).

The objective of the ITMF Sustainability & Innovation Award is to recognize sustainable and innovative achievements in the textile industry with focus on innovation, design, development, and production under the strictest standards of sustainability and respect for the environment.

The winners of the ITMF Innovation & Sustainability Award 2024 are (in alphabetical order):

  • GuoWang High-Technique Fiber Company (China): http://www.shenghonggroup.cn/en/ –
    Low-carbon & sustainable innovation in PET fibre industry
  • HeiQ AeoniQ Holding AG (Switzerland): https://www.heiq-aeoniq.com/ – Hyperscaling HeiQ AeoniQ™
  • Samsara Eco (Australia): https://www.samsaraeco.com/ – Infinite plastic recycling: a solution for end-of-life textiles

The objective of the ITMF International Cooperation Award is to recognize progress in international collaboration in the textile industry according to the values of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The winners of the ITMF International Cooperation Award 2024 are (in alphabetical order):

  • DITF (Germany): www.ditf.de and RBX Creations (France): https://www.iroony.net/ –
    Next generation cellulosic filaments from hemp
  • HKRITA (Hong Kong, China): https://theopenlab.one/ – Open lab

For more information about ITMF visit – https://www.itmf.org/ or contact secretariat@itmf.org.

Posted: August 28, 2024

Source: The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

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