Swiss Industrial Engineering And Manufacturing Company Sulzer Joins Spinnova’s Ecosystem

JYVÄSKYLÄ, Finland — April 1, 2026 — Sulzer, a Swiss industrial engineering and manufacturing company, has joined Spinnova’s ecosystem (consortium) to enable the availability of SPINNOVA® fibre in the textile materials market. Sulzer will contribute its expertise to support Spinnova’s development work.

Sulzer is a global leader in critical applications for core infrastructure and processes for large essential industries around the world. Sulzer’s technology enables its customers to enhance their energy efficiency and resource management, improve performance, reduce emissions, and develop solutions that support the circular economy.

Spinnova has previously partnered with Sulzer during the Woodspin demonstration factory project, from planning to ramping up production. Sulzer has also supported Spinnova in the ramp-up of piloting environment for MFC (microfibrillated cellulose) production. Beyond delivering machinery and expertise, the collaboration has involved close co-development between the two companies.

This new agreement formalizes Sulzer’s role in future technology development and strengthens the ecosystem with additional engineering expertise. Spinnova’s ecosystem aims to accelerate the scaling of its technology and fibre supply by engaging partners across the value chain. Sulzer supports this goal through multiple contributions, including efforts to increase cost competitiveness.

“Co-development with Sulzer strengthens our offering to scale up Spinnova’s technology. By combining Sulzer’s technology and engineering expertise in pumping, mixing, and fibre suspension flows with our technology concept, we can industrialise more effectively. This partnership strengthens the entire process from planning to implementation, improving the concept competitiveness at large scale”, says Mikko Kautto, responsible of Technology Concept and Partners at Spinnova.

“Sulzer is committed to supporting companies that push the boundaries of innovation like Spinnova. By providing reliable technology and engineering expertise, we are pleased to help our partners strengthen their processes and advance their ambitions”, says Sirpa Välimaa, Head of Business Segment, Pulp, Paper, and Board at Sulzer.

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: Spinnova Plc

FILTECH 2026: Neumag Nonwoven Showcases Technologies for Meltblown and Spunbond

NEUMÜNSTER, Germany— April 2, 2026 — Under its Neumag brand, Barmag will present its technologies for the production of nonwovens for filter media at this year’s FILTECH. From June 30 to July 2, the company will be represented at the Cologne trade fair in Hall 8, Booth E68.

Focus on Nonwovens for Filter Media

The main focus is on solutions for producing high-performance filter media at competitive costs. Here, Neumag excels in both the meltblown sector and with its spunbond solutions.

Meltblown technology for the highest quality requirements

Neumag’s meltblown technology enables the efficient and straightforward production of high-performance nonwovens for filtration, insulation, and sorption applications. A wide variety of polymers can be processed—from classic polyolefins such as PP and PE, through PET, PLA, PBT, and PA, to specialty plastics like PPS or TPU. All of these and other raw materials can be processed safely and reliably using the Neumag meltblown process.

The hycuTEC hydrocharging unit reduces the pressure drop of a typical FFP2 filter medium to less than a quarter, thereby achieving filtration efficiency of over 99.99%.

The hycuTEC hydrocharging technology, which was honored with the Edana Filtrex Innovation Award, enables the production of particularly high-performance electret filter media. This allows the pressure drop of a typical FFP2 filter medium to be reduced to less than a quarter. “Filtration efficiencies of over 99.99% are easily achievable with standard media weighing around 35 g/m² and a maximum pressure drop of 35 Pa,” explains Andreas Frisch, Regional Sales Director Nonwoven. “Furthermore, the additional drying step is eliminated in most applications—another advantage of this innovative technology,” he adds.

Spunbond solutions for high-performance filter concepts

Spunbond nonwovens are becoming increasingly important in filtration—both as carrier materials and as standalone filter media. By tailoring nonwoven structures specifically to the task at hand, customer-specific requirements can be precisely met. It is also possible to combine multiple functions within a single layer.

In particular, the company’s long-standing expertise in bicomponent spinning processes opens up new possibilities in the design of innovative nonwoven structures. The Neumag Bico spunbond process allows for the combination of different fiber cross-sections as well as the simultaneous production of different fibers from one or more polymers on a single line. The spectrum ranges from classic core-sheath and side-by-side filaments to split fibers and so-called mixed fibers.

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: BARMAG – A Subsidiary of the Rieter Group

Syre And JEPLAN Announce Strategic Partnership To Accelerate Textile-To-Textile Recycling

STOCKHOLM— April 2, 2026 — JEPLAN, INC. the Japanese pioneer developing and operating chemical recycling technologies for circularity in packaging and textiles, and Syre, the textile impact company on a mission to hyperscale textile-to-textile recycling, announced today a strategic partnership.

Together, the companies aim to extensively accelerate the timeline towards commercialization of next generation textile-to-textile polyester recycling technology.

The partnership brings together Syre’s global reach in innovation and technology integration with JEPLAN’s proven chemical recycling know-how and operational readiness.

Under the agreement, Syre and JEPLAN will develop and refine new solutions to unlock textile-to-textile recycling at large commercial scale. The collaboration is expected to continue accelerating Syre’s timeline to full commercialization, including targeting multi-ton volumes of textile-to-textile generated polyester in late 2026 suitable for spinning validation and product line samples with brands.

“This partnership is all about speed and scale, without compromising on quality,” said Dennis Nobelius, CEO of Syre. “Through JEPLAN’s technical and operational experience built over more than a decade, we can move much faster to commercialization.”

“We are excited to partner with Syre to help bring textile-to-textile recycling to meaningful scale,” said Masaki Takao, CEO of JEPLAN. “Syre’s ambition, business back bone, and global reach in technology integration, combined with our extensive chemical recycling experience creates a powerful platform for accelerating breakthrough solutions for the textile industry”.

JEPLAN operates a PET chemical recycling plant for textile in Kitakyushu, Japan, including demonstration and semi-industrial units used to test and scale chemical recycling technologies.

“Impact is our core and the path that brings us fastest to substantial scale is the path we will take,” said Dennis Nobelius. “The approach now in place continues to build our robust pathway to our first large-scale plant in Vietnam. We are proud to announce JEPLAN today, and more will follow. We expect to announce several additional world-leading partnerships around the globe as we move toward full commercial deployment.”

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: Syre

Teijin Frontier Announces New Stretch Polyester Yarn Offering Exceptional Compatibility With High‑Performance Polyester Materials

TOKYO— April 6, 2026 — Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. announced today that it has developed a new stretch polyester yarn that offers new opportunities to create comfortable, all-polyester fabrics for sports and outdoor wear.

Textiles using a newly developed stretch polyester yarn

The new polyester yarn demonstrates exceptional compatibility with high-performance polyester materials. Further, Teijin Frontier’s proprietary polymer design and spinning technology impart excellent elasticity to the new yarn. In turn, this yarn adds stretchability and recovery to the advanced functionality and excellent texture of high-performance polyester materials.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for greater comfort in sports and outdoor wear, as well as in everyday clothing. To help increase wearability, polyurethane-based elastic fibers with high stretchability are widely used. At the same time, greater variability in usage scenarios has led to a need for new high-performance polyester materials that can integrate comfortable stretch properties with advanced functionality and an excellent texture.

However, the material properties of polyurethane-based elastic fibers and polyester materials, particularly their heat-setting characteristics, differ greatly. This incompatibility has created product development restrictions.

To address this challenge, Teijin Frontier developed a polyester filament yarn that is compatible with high-performance polyester materials and can impart comfortable stretchability and recoverability.

Key features of the new polyester yarn

  • Soft comfortable stretchability and high recoverability

Unlike stretchability that derives from the yarn structure—such as in conjugate yarns made by combining polymers with different heat-shrink properties and highly crimped yarns—the new polyester yarn’s elasticity is derived from its unique polymer design and spinning control technology. As a result, although it is a polyester filament, it possesses soft stretchability and excellent shape stability, with a high degree of recovery comparable to that of polyurethane-based elastic fibers.

  • Support for advanced functionality

The strong compatibility between the new stretch polyester yarn and high-performance polyester materials makes it possible to develop 100 percent polyester textiles that maintain the advanced functions of the polyester material. These include moisture absorption and quick drying, as well as durable water repellency.

  • Design flexibility

With the same characteristics as polyester materials, including excellent heat-setting properties, the new yarn enables development of new high-performance stretch materials for a wide range of applications.

  • Easier recycling

Using the new polyester stretch yarn with high-performance polyester materials will create a 100 percent polyester textile, making easier recycling possible.

Teijin Frontier plans to combine the new yarn with high-performance polyester materials in textiles for a wide range of apparel, including sportswear, casual wear and innerwear. The company will begin selling these textiles to the domestic and overseas outdoor and sports apparel markets in 2027, targeting annual sales of 100,000 meters of textiles in fiscal 2027 and 500,000 meters in fiscal 2029.

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: The Teijin Group

Association For Linen Management Appoints Graham Skinner As Dean Of Industry Education & Partnerships

RICHMOND, KY — April 6, 2026 — The Association for Linen Management has appointed Graham Skinner, RLLD as Dean of Industry Education & Partnerships, effective March 23.

Graham Skinner

As ALM’s programs continue to evolve into more structured, competency-based pathways, sustained senior-level subject matter leadership is essential to ensure academic integrity, curriculum consistency, and long-term relevance.

While the association remains deeply committed to its volunteer instructors and advisory leaders, the increasing scope and complexity of its education portfolio requires a consistent, dedicated presence focused on quality, accuracy, and student success.

This appointment also signals ALM’s commitment to serving the full arc of a professional career by creating a respected pathway for seasoned leaders to transition from operational leadership into mentorship and legacy contribution. As Skinner moves into retirement from full-time industry leadership, he will continue serving the profession through this part-time role, focused on preserving institutional knowledge, guiding future leaders, and strengthening the education framework that shaped his own career.

Skinner has dedicated his entire professional career to the textile care industry, serving as both a supplier and an operator. He attended the Laundry & Linen College as a student and has taught at the College for decades. He has also led countless CLLM review sessions and has instructed more members through ALM programs than any other individual in the association’s history.

“This is a defining step for ALM,” said Sarah Brobeck, President & CEO. “We have built strong technical foundations for our industry. Now we are formalizing how experience is preserved, shared, and passed forward. Graham represents that bridge between generations.”

Skinner shared, “ALM’s programs have shaped my own professional journey. The opportunity to continue giving back as I transition into retirement is deeply meaningful. I am honored to help guide the next generation of leaders and support the continued advancement of our industry.”

The Dean of Industry Education & Partnerships role strengthens oversight of Laundry & Linen College, supports certification pathways, and ensures consistent outreach and engagement with members across ALM’s education portfolio.

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: The Association for Linen Management (ALM)

Thermore Appoints Don Reichelt To North American Sales Team

MILAN, Italy— April 7, 2026 — Thermore, an Italian manufacturing firm and supplier of sustainable synthetic insulation, has appointed Don Reichelt as North American Sales Representative, supporting the company’s continued growth across the U.S. market.

Don Reichelt

Reichelt brings experience across the outdoor and endurance sports industries, combining a background in sales and marketing with deep ties to the performance community. He is the founder of Colorado-based Rocky Peak Marketing and has worked closely with brands in the outdoor, run, and active lifestyle spaces.

In addition to his professional experience, Reichelt is an accomplished ultra-endurance athlete, including a U.S. 24-hour National Championship title and multiple ultra-distance records. His firsthand experience in performance environments brings added credibility to his work with apparel brands and product teams.

“Don’s experience across both the business and performance sides of the industry makes him an incredible addition to the Thermore team,” said Patrizio Siniscalchi, CEO of Thermore. “His understanding of the market and close connection to the outdoor community will support our continued growth in North America.”

In his new role, Reichelt will focus on expanding Thermore’s relationships with North American apparel partners and supporting the integration of Thermore insulation technologies into product lines.

“I’m excited to work closely with Thermore’s brand partners and help expand the company’s presence in North America,” said Reichelt. “There’s a real opportunity to continue growing awareness around the performance and innovation behind Thermore’s insulation.”

Headquartered in Milan and founded in 1972, Thermore specializes in the development of thermal insulation for apparel and partners with leading brands across the outdoor, sport, and fashion markets.

Posted: April 6, 2026

Source: Thermore

The Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) Renews ISO/IES 17025 Accreditation

CONOVER, N.C. — March 31, 2026 — The Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC), a division of Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC), is proud to announce the successful renewal of its ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation.  This renewal was granted by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), a global leader in accreditation services, following a comprehensive evaluation of the center’s laboratory management and technical operations.

ISO/IEC 17025 is the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories. By maintaining this accreditation, the MSC demonstrates its ongoing commitment to technical competence and its ability to produce precise, accurate, and globally recognized test data.

“Renewing our ISO 17025 accreditation with ANAB reinforces our role as a trusted partner for U.S. manufacturers,” said Jeff Neuville, Director of the Manufacturing Solutions Center. “This ‘gold standard’ ensures our clients that the results they receive are meeting the highest levels of quality and reliability, which is critical for their success in a competitive global market”.

The MSC’s accredited scope covers a wide range of specialized testing services essential for the textile, furniture, and personal protective equipment (PPE) industries. Key areas of focus include:

  • Textile & Legwear Performance: Comprehensive testing for apparel, hosiery, socks, and textile-related products, including abrasion resistance, colorfastness, and stretch.
  • Furniture Structural Testing: Rigorous evaluation of furniture durability and safety in accordance with BIFMA standards.
  • PPE & Mask Validation: Critical testing for the efficacy of medical gowns, masks, and other protective equipment in the MSC’s dedicated PPE Resource Lab.
  • Physical & Chemical Analysis: Assessment of tensile strength, flammability, pH levels, and antimicrobial properties.

The mission of the Manufacturing Solutions Center is to help U.S. manufacturers increase sales, improve quality, and improve efficiency, leading to the creation and retention of US manufacturing jobs.  By providing accredited testing, the MSC helps companies navigate regulatory requirements, such as CPSC third-party testing, and verify product claims for major retailers and marketplaces.

Part of Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC, the Manufacturing Solutions Center provides testing, prototyping, and business incubation services to support the growth of manufacturing companies. With an emphasis on textiles and emerging technologies, MSC fosters innovation and economic development throughout the region.  To learn more about the MSC visit www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org.

Posted: April 5, 2026

Source: The Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC)

Americhem Launches nDryve™: PFAS-Free In-Melt Technology Platform For Functional Fibers

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — April 1, 2026 — Americhem, Inc., a global polymer solutions provider, today announced the launch of nDryve™, a PFAS-free, in-melt surface-modifying technology platform designed to deliver durable multi-fluid repellency against alcohol and other low-surface-energy fluids in fiber systems.

As global regulations accelerate the phase-out of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), manufacturers are under increasing pressure to maintain barrier performance without fluorinated chemistries. nDryve™ was developed to address this shift, offering a PFAS-free, in-melt alternative to conventional surface applied treatments.

Engineered for Performance Without PFAS

Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have come under heightened regulatory scrutiny due to their persistence and potential environmental and health impacts. nDryve™ integrates directly into the polymer during melt processing, embedding surface-modifying functionality within the fiber matrix rather than relying on removable finishes.

By engineering performance at the material level, the technology:

  • Reduces wash-off risk
  • Eliminates reliance on secondary finishing steps
  • Supports consistent performance across the product lifecycle

The result is durable multi-fluid repellency and stain resistance engineered in the fiber structure.

“Evolving global PFAS regulations are reshaping how manufacturers evaluate barrier and surface performance technologies,” said Matt Miklos, Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Marketing at Americhem. “nDryve™ provides a PFAS-free pathway that aligns performance with emerging regulatory expectations.”

Designed for High-Performance Fiber Applications

nDryve™ is implemented through application-specific formulations optimized for polyolefin and engineering fiber systems, including PP, PET and PA6. It is suited for demanding applications such as medical fibers, apparel, face masks, hygiene materials, textiles, carpet and industrial protective fabrics—where durability, safety and regulatory longevity are critical.

By integrating functionality during melt processing, manufacturers can streamline production while reducing dependence on post-treatment chemistries.

“The industry is moving toward integrated, material-level performance solutions,” Miklos added. “With nDryve™, we support that transition by combining functional performance with PFAS-free design.”

Posted: April 4, 2026

Source: Americhem

The LYCRA Company Announces Strategic Partnership On Renewable LYCRA® Fiber

SHANGHAI — April 2, 2026 — The LYCRA Company, innovative and sustainable fiber solutions provider for the apparel and personal care industries, today announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Texhong International Group Limited (“Texhong”), one of the world’s largest suppliers of core-spun cotton textiles.

The LYCRA Company announced a strategic partnership with Texhong International Group for renewable LYCRA® fiber. Pictured at the signing ceremony held in Shanghai (left to right): Jason Wang, Vice President, Asia, The LYCRA Company, and Zhou Xia, Chief Operating Officer of Texhong International Group.

Under the agreement, Texhong will exclusively partner with The LYCRA Company to bring Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content* to China’s core-spun yarn sector. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of bio-derived spandex across the global apparel and textile industry.

Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content is the latest achievement in The LYCRA Company’s efforts to develop more sustainable materials. Partly derived from dent corn, this new offering is expected to retain the outstanding elasticity, comfort, and durability of standard fossil-derived LYCRA® fiber. Information from a recent Cradle-to-Gate Life Cycle Assessment indicated up to a 32 percent** reduction in carbon emissions compared to fossil-derived LYCRA® fiber.

“This strategic partnership fully underscores The LYCRA Company’s leading capabilities in sustainable fiber innovation and industrial application,” said Jason Wang, vice president of Asia at The LYCRA Company. “Renewable LYCRA® fiber already boasts a mature foundation for commercial adoption. The partnership with Texhong will further expand its industrial scale. By working closely with value chain partners, we aim to continuously drive the widespread adoption of lower impact, innovative materials across the textile industry.”

Texhong will leverage its well-established textile value chain to develop customized core-spun yarn products using Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content. These products deliver an integrated, sustainable solution from bio-derived raw materials to yarn manufacturing. Moving forward, the two companies will jointly drive collaborative innovation in bio-derived spandex materials, yarn manufacturing, and brand end-use applications.

“Texhong has long been dedicated to the R&D and manufacturing of high-value-added cotton textiles and core-spun yarn products,” said Zhou Xia, chief operating officer of Texhong. “Partnering with The LYCRA Company will bring new breakthroughs in bio-based material applications and further improve product sustainability. Together, we will jointly accelerate the innovation and market penetration of bio-derived core-spun yarn solutions.”

Texhong has used LYCRA® brand fibers for nearly two decades and has collaborated with The LYCRA Company on many technological advancements, including patented LYCRA® dualFX® fabric technology. The further deepening of this partnership reflects the companies’ shared commitment to technological progress, operational synergy, and sustainable development. It also demonstrates The LYCRA Company’s ongoing commitment to empowering the textile value chain through continuous innovation.

*30 percent renewable content to be confirmed via third-party testing.

**Comparative Life Cycle Assessment: LYCRA® fiber with Bio-derived PTMEG vs LYCRA® fiber with Fossil-Derived PTMEG, Ramboll, 2026.

Posted: April 4, 2026

Source: The LYCRA Company / Texhong International Group Limited

Arclin Completes Acquisition Of The DuPont™ Aramids Business, Including Iconic Kevlar® And Nomex® Brands

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — April 1, 2026 — Arclin, a global materials science company, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of DuPont’s Aramids business, including the renowned Kevlar® and Nomex® brands, for approximately $1.8 billion.

Acquisition Fast Facts

The transaction marks a transformational milestone for Arclin, significantly expanding its scale, capabilities, and presence across life-critical industries. Arclin is a portfolio company of an affiliate of TJC, L.P.

“Kevlar® and Nomex® are the gold standard in their respective industries, and we are very excited to incorporate the Aramids platform into Arclin’s broader material science portfolio. This acquisition strategically strengthens Arclin’s operational and geographic footprint,” said Mark Glaspey, Arclin’s President. “With established manufacturing operations in Europe and Asia and ~1,800 new team members around the world, we are focused on operational continuity from day one while investing in manufacturing capabilities and innovation to support long-term growth.”

With the addition of the Aramids brands, Arclin’s portfolio now spans aerospace, electrical infrastructure, electric vehicles, and personal protection and defense. The acquisition further strengthens Arclin’s leadership across construction, infrastructure, transportation, and weather and fire protection as demand for advanced protective materials continues to grow. Arclin’s proprietary materials and technologies are mission-critical, supporting products that protect people, communities, and essential infrastructure worldwide.

“We’re excited to join the Arclin family and continue advancing the renowned performance that customers have relied on from Kevlar® and Nomex® for decades,” said Matt Reinhardt, Business Unit President for Aramids. “Our team’s deep expertise in aramid fiber technology, combined with Arclin’s commitment to investing in innovation and growth, positions us to better serve our customers and accelerate the development of next-generation protective solutions across industries.”

“Looking ahead, our mission is to build on the superior strength of the Aramids brands,” said Bradley Bolduc, Arclin’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re focused on accelerating what these materials can do, putting meaningful investment behind technological innovation and deploying Kevlar® and Nomex® strategically across the world’s most performance-critical applications.”

Piper Sandler & Company served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Arclin and TJC. Centerview Partners and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as DuPont’s financial advisors and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP served as legal counsel.

Posted: April 4, 2026

Source: Arclin

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