Julian Sponseller Joins Direct Sales Team At Herculite Products, Inc.

EMIGSVILLE, PA — October 20, 2025 — Herculite Products is pleased to announce that Julian Sponseller has been hired as the Western Regional Manager for the Direct Sales Team. Herculite is excited to expand its sales team to support and continue the strong growth in that market.

Julian Sponseller

Julian will oversee our Midwest region of the Direct Sales team, engaging with clients in the automotive, custom-engineered solutions, healthcare, agriculture, and tent and structure industries. At Herculite, our goal is to deliver the highest level of service and support in the industry, and we believe that Julian will make a valuable contribution to this mission.

Julian graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a major in Organizational Leadership and a minor in Sales, bringing four years of experience in the fabric industry to Herculite. He lives in Cincinnati and enjoys golfing and spending time with friends and family.

Posted: October 20, 2025

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

Hyosung TNC and Lenzing Launch New Sustainable Yoga Collection at Performance Days

SEOUL, South Korea — October 20, 2025 — United by a shared vision for sustainable innovation, Hyosung TNC, the world’s largest manufacturer of elastane by market share, and Lenzing Group, a leading global producer of regenerated cellulosic fibers for the textile and nonwovens industries, have partnered to launch a yoga fabric collection that blends certified low-impact fibers [1] [2], performance designed for modern movement, and inspiration from nature [3].

The new collection will make its debut at Performance Days Munich, this October 29-30, where both Hyosung TNC and Lenzing will showcase yoga inspired concept garment range designed by Hyosung TNCs Fashion Design Center, made with various blends of Lenzing’s TENCEL™ and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ made with REFIBRA™ technology and Hyosung TNC’s certified regen® BIO Elastane partly made with renewable resources, 100% recycled regen Elastane, and CREORA® Color+ Elastane.

“I truly believe that the future of performance textiles lies in collaborative innovation. Our partnership with Hyosung TNC beautifully illustrates this idea, exemplifying how material innovation and cross-industry collaboration can accelerate the transition to bio-based, traceable, and scalable alternatives—delivering on both technical excellence and environmental responsibility,” said Nicole Schram, Lenzing’s Head of Global Technical Development. “They bring years of expertise in elastane, while we contribute our innovative cellulosic fibers. What really excites me is how we’re both reimagining material science with a focus on sustainability [1] [2] [3]. “With this yoga collection, we’re not just blending fibers, we’re showing how working together can accelerate the entire industry toward resource-efficient practices [1] [2].”

“We’ve had many brand partners approach us looking for a sustainably made elastane that would help them tell a fully biobased material story,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight. “We believe our regen® BIO Elastane uniquely pairs with Lenzing’s luxurious wood-based fibers [4] to create this perfect sustainable solution. Collaborative partnerships are essential as the textile industry strives for innovative and high-performance solutions across the value chain to meet brand and consumer sustainability objectives.”

On October 30th (Day 2) at 14:00 in the Performance Days Circularity Zone, Lenzing will be moderating a panel discussion titled Power of Collaboration – Driving Sustainable Innovation through Strategic Partnerships joined by Simon Whitmarsh-Knight and Lenzing colleagues from Südwolle and OceanSafe.

regen™ BIO Elastane – From Nature To Performance Fiber

Also at Performance Days, Hyosung TNC will highlight its expanded regen™ BIO Elastane range made of renewable content and inform attendees on the transition of the fiber’s feedstock from corn to sugarcane, which enables lower carbon emissions without sacrificing performance.

Hyosung announced its partnership with sustainable materials leader, Geno, to produce Bio-BDO derived from sugarcane, powered by Geno’s proprietary BDO technology, at its Vietnam plant. This initiative is under development, with the potential of producing up to 50,000 tons of bio-BDO by the end of 2026.

“For the first time, the industry will have an integrated supply of bio-based elastane in one region, from raw material to fiber,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung Global Sustainability Director -Textiles. “This means faster market delivery, shorter development times, and a stronger supply chain for partners.”

The company has joined the VIVE Sustainable Supply Program, to ensure full traceability and transparency from sugarcane farms to fiber production. Robin Cooper, VIVE Senior Manager of Regenerative Agriculture and Simon Whitmarsh-Knight in workshop on October 29th (Day 1) at 16:00 titled Hyosung TNC’s regen™ BIO Elastane: Advancing Circularity and Traceability with the VIVE Platform. This seminar explores Hyosung’s regen™ BIO elastane initiative, focusing on the shift in feedstock from corn to sugarcane. It will outline the environmental benefits and verification of raw material traceability through the VIVE Program.

CREORA® Functional Textiles – Designed For Trends Shaping Tomorrow

Continuously innovating, Hyosung TNC anticipates what consumers expect from their performance apparel, which includes multi-functional characteristics to keep wearers cool, fresh and comfortable with style.

In addition to its regen™ BIO Elastane range, Hyosung TNC will present materials with new performance fibers to include CREORA® Conadu Polyester, offering the soft, natural feel of cotton combined with comfortable stretch, and CREORA® EasyFlex Elastane, that offers a luxurious soft feel, and allows for size inclusivity where one size can fit various body types with lower power and better retention rate for extra comfort.

Hyosung TNC Performance Days stand will be in Hall A2, booth L17.

[1] TENCEL™ Lyocell and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers are made with at least 50 percent less carbon emissions and water consumption, compared to generic (unbranded) lyocell and viscose. The results were calculated according to LCA standards (ISO 14040/44) and are made available via the Higg Materials Sustainability Index (MSI) v3.10 (April 2025).

[2] LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers produced with REFIBRA™ technology use cotton textile waste as a raw material, in addition to wood. The fibers contain a minimum of 20% recycled material, which is sourced from pre- and post-consumer waste. These cotton scraps could have otherwise entered landfills or been incinerated. LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers produced with REFIBRA™ technology also meet the Recycled Claim Standard.

[3] To foster a sustainable global textile and nonwovens industry, Lenzing follows three strategic principles within the context of its “Naturally Positive” sustainability strategy, which focuses on greening the value chain, driving systemic change and advancing the circular economy through partnerships with key industry stakeholders, such as Textile Exchange, Cascale, Canopy, Together for Sustainability, Renewable Carbon Initiative, and UN Global Compact.

[4] Adhering to the company’s commitment to environmental protection and resource preservation, Lenzing procures wood and pulp only from certified or controlled sustainable sources. In its Wood and Pulp Policy, Lenzing is committed to procuring wood and pulp exclusively from non-controversial sources. FSC® (FSC-C041246) or PEFC (PEFC/06-33-92) certification.

Posted: October 20, 2025

Source: Hyosung TNC

INDA Announces Three Finalists For The 2025 Hygienix Innovation Award™

CARY, N.C. — October 20, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, proudly announces the three finalists for the prestigious 2025 Hygienix Innovation Award™.

These groundbreaking absorbent hygiene products will be presented at Hygienix™, the premier event for absorbent hygiene professionals, taking place November 17–20 at the Omni Orlando ChampionsGate, ChampionsGate, Florida.

The three finalists will present their innovations to hundreds of absorbent hygiene professionals. The 2025 Hygienix Innovation Award™ will be announced on Thursday, November 20th at 10:40 am.

Meet the Award Finalists

Confitex Technology – Washable Nonwoven Sanitary Pads

Making single-use reusable: As regulators, retailers and consumers move toward a greener future, a new category of washable AHPs is creating opportunities for the nonwoven industry. Confitex Technology has created and patented world’s first washable nonwoven sanitary pads designed for sustainability and scalability without the need for SAPs. Confitex Technology is leading Innovator and Private Label supplier. Their purpose is to transform the lives of millions and reduce the Earth’s landfill by creating the ultimate reusable AHPs.

Dukane – Curved Leg Elastic (CLE)

Dukane’s Curved Leg Elastic (CLE) technology redefines how elastic strands are attached in hygiene product manufacturing. By enabling ultrasonic bonding of curved elastics without any hotmelt adhesive, CLE eliminates material waste, simplifies construction, and enhances product performance. For the first time, manufacturers can seamlessly integrate curved and straight elastic strands within the same lamination using ultrasonic technology alone—a breakthrough previously thought possible only with adhesives or complex multilayer designs. CLE represents a new standard in sustainable, high-precision elastic attachment.

ZymoChem – BAYSE™

ZymoChem is a biotechnology leader revolutionizing sustainable chemical production. The company’s breakthrough product, BAYSE™, is the world’s first scalable, bio-based, microplastic-free, and biodegradable Super Absorbent Polymer.

Designed as a drop-in replacement for fossil-based SAPs, BAYSE offers a significantly lower carbon footprint while matching the performance of conventional materials and enabling seamless integration into existing manufacturing processes.  As featured earlier this year on CNBC’s “Clean Start,” this decarbonized solution is dramatically advancing the sustainability outlook for the hygiene industry.

Last year, HIRO Technologies, Inc. received the 2024 Award with its World’s First MycoDigestable Diapers—a breakthrough featuring plastic-eating mushrooms that combined excellent absorbency with sustainable, natural materials.

“Hygienix Innovation Award finalists represent the future of absorbent hygiene,” said Matt O’Sickey, PhD, INDA’s Director of Education & Technical Affairs. “These companies are pushing boundaries with solutions that address consumer needs, sustainability goals, and performance demands. Their work highlights the innovative spirit that drives our industry forward.”

Event Highlights at Hygienix™ 2025

Beyond the Innovation Award, Hygienix 2025 will deliver a powerful program of learning, networking, and collaboration, including:

  • Two Evenings of Exhibits & Receptions– Engage with leading suppliers and solution providers shaping the future of absorbent hygiene.
  • Workshops: Three workshops Monday afternoon covering absorbent hygiene systems, advances in menstrual care, and a deep dive into baby, infant, and toddler care.
  • Women in Nonwovens (WiN) Luncheon– Fostering mentorship, leadership, and collaboration across the industry.
  • Lightning Talks– Fast-paced 5-minute presentations spotlighting exhibitor innovations.
  • Lunch Around with Olivia Ahn, MD, Co-Founder of Planera– Hear her inspiring start-up journey firsthand.
  • Welcome Reception– Kick off the event with the ever-popular Welcome Reception in a relaxed, informal atmosphere Monday evening.

Featured Conference Sessions

Attendees will gain insights and strategies from sessions tackling the industry’s biggest opportunities and challenges:

  • The Illusion vs. Reality of Absorbent Hygiene Products Entrepreneurship – Overcoming Start-Up Hurdles (and Panel Discussion)
  • Economic Realities: Profit, Pressure, and Possibility
  • Panel Discussion: Servicing the Shift – Private Label as a Growth Engine
  • Finding Growth: Paws & Planet
  • Disruption Ahead: Misinformation, Regulation, and Testing in Absorbent Hygiene
  • Designed with the Consumer in Mind
  • Absorbent Hygiene Construction with Non-Traditional Inputs
  • Flushable by Design
  • Sustainable by Design

To register, secure exhibit space, or reserve sponsorship opportunities, visit hygienix.org

Posted: October 20, 2025

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

RISE® 2025 Showcases Breakthrough Technologies And Sustainability Insights Driving The Future Of Nonwovens

CARY, N.C. — October 16, 2025 — Industry innovators, technology scouts, and business leaders gathered in Raleigh, North Carolina, for the RISE® (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics) Conference, co-hosted by INDA and The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) at North Carolina State University. The event, held October 14–15 at the McKimmon Center, featured cutting-edge advancements, graduate research, and forward-looking discussions shaping the sustainable future of nonwoven materials.

2025 RISE® Innovation Award

The RISE® Innovation Award honors technical breakthroughs that advance nonwoven science and engineering toward commercialization.

The 2025 RISE® Innovation Award winner is Keel Labs for their Kelsun® fiber.

Kelsun® fiber by Keel Labs

KelsunⓇ fiber, developed by Keel Labs, is the world’s first high-performance seaweed-based fiber. Plastic-free and tree-free; the combined properties of KelsunⓇ allow it to outperform all other fibers without shedding harmful microplastics. This breakthrough material brings extreme softness, high absorptivity, inherent flame resistant and antimicrobial properties, in addition to unmatched biodegradability. Engineered to integrate into existing nonwoven manufacturing, KelsunⓇ fiber delivers a revolutionary material that combines performance with sustainability for next-generation consumer and industrial products.

The RISE Innovation Award finalists exemplified innovation, sustainability, and impact and included:

  • EsterCycle by EsterCycle, LLC
    A low-cost, low-emissions chemical recycling technology capable of safely processing biohazard-contaminated PPE and mixed polyester nonwovens, returning valuable material back into the supply chain.
  • Fentanyl Detection Wipe by Rockline Industries
    A groundbreaking wipe that rapidly changes color upon contact with trace amounts of fentanyl, giving first responders and law enforcement a safe, fast, and reliable tool to identify dangerous opioids in the field.

Hempitecture, Inc. earned the 2024 RISE Innovation Award for its PlantPanel™, a 100% biobased rigid insulation material combining thermal efficiency, acoustic performance, and sustainability in a single, easy-to-install product.

RISE® 2025 Event Highlights

RISE delivered a forward-looking program centered on sustainability and innovation, featuring sessions on bio-based materials, circular economy strategies, renewable carbon, green chemistry, advanced recycling, and microplastics mitigation—along with trade, tariff, and policy updates shaping the industry’s future.

Keynote Presentations

Renewable carbon and green chemistry were featured in two keynote presentations from Lars Börger, PhD, CEO, nova-Institute GmbH and John Warner, PhD, CEO & CTO, The Technology Greenhouse. Dr. Börger demonstrated how molecular-level design decisions can accelerate circularity and renewable innovation in materials manufacturing. Dr. Warner highlighted how a renewable carbon economy can drive innovation, efficiency, and climate goals across the nonwovens and textiles industries.

“RISE continues to spotlight the technologies that are redefining what’s possible in nonwovens,” said Matt O’Sickey, PhD, INDA’s Director of Education & Technical Affairs. “From renewable carbon and green chemistry to next-generation fibers and recycling innovations, this year’s conference showcased the kind of collaboration and creativity that will shape a more sustainable future for our industry.”

Graduate Research Posters

More than 20 graduate students from leading universities showcased their scalable, research-backed technologies, sharing insights and potential applications with industry experts and investors.

Networking & Engagement

RISE® 2025 fostered exceptional networking and collaboration through:

  • A charity golf tournament supporting graduate student travel to INDA events
  • Tabletop exhibits highlighting cutting-edge materials and technologies
  • A tour of The Nonwovens Institute’s $65+ million pilot lines and analytical labs
  • A lively reception at the McKimmon Center
  • Over 30 graduate research posters presented by the next generation of nonwoven scientists

Looking Ahead: RISE® 2026

Mark your calendars for RISE® 2026, returning to the McKimmon Center in Raleigh, NC, August 25–26, 2026, for another year of transformative insights, collaborative networking, and technologies driving the nonwoven industry forward.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Microban International Appoints Shermon Mcmillan As New President

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — October 16, 2025 — Microban International, the global leader in antimicrobial and odor control solutions, today announced the appointment of Shermon McMillan as its new president. A seasoned global executive with a proven record of driving growth at Fortune 500 companies, McMillan will guide Microban strategy, operations and innovation pipeline toward sustainable growth.

Shermon McMillan will oversee Microban’s operations, strategy and innovation pipeline to drive sustainable growth.

“Shermon McMillan is a strategic and experienced leader who understands Microban’s goals and how to bring them to fruition,” said Scott Beal, CEO at Barr Brands International, parent company of Microban. “We are confident he will help us elevate the Microban brand and maintain a leadership position in the global marketplace.”

As president, McMillan will focus on building the Microban brand and growing the company’s reputation as the most trusted name in product protection. His leadership will put customers at the center, prioritize the execution of relevant innovation, and build brand equity. By combining customer centrality, innovation and brand building, McMillan will ensure Microban continues to deliver value for both industry partners and end-users.

“Microban has experienced remarkable growth over its four-decade history, and I look forward to helping drive our next phase of global growth and innovation,” said Shermon. “With the help of our talented team, Microban will be the most-recognized leader in product protection.”

McMillan brings a wealth of experience across consumer healthcare and household categories. Most recently, he served as vice president and general manager at The Clorox Company, where he successfully turned around the vitamins, minerals and supplements business, delivering first-time profitability and managing its successful divestiture. Prior to that, McMillan held senior leadership roles at Sanofi Consumer Healthcare, including global vice president, overseeing a multibillion-dollar global allergy, cold and cough portfolio across over 100 countries.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: Microban International – Part of Barr Brands International

Sustainable Innovation: Freudenberg Launches Unique Binder-Free PLA/Wood Pulp Wetlaid Nonwovens

WEINHEIM, Germany — October 16, 2025 — With its new 100% bio-based PLA/wood pulp materials that use no chemical binder, Freudenberg Performance Materials (Freudenberg) has achieved a technological breakthrough with sustainability benefits. These innovative materials combine the advantages of both components, addressing the needs of specific segments within plant propagation systems, packaging, filtration, apparel and healthcare.

PLA-based wetlaid material made by Freudenberg
Source: ©Freudenberg Performance Materials

Freudenberg’s innovation lies in combining the water absorption and biodegradability characteristics of wood pulp with the high strength and hot sealability of PLA. The entire product is 100% bio-based and binder-free.

This unique combination is achieved using the wetlaid process. It represents a technological breakthrough compared to conventional PLA nonwovens, which are made using spunlaid technology. While spunlaid nonwovens can only be produced from polymeric raw materials, wetlaid nonwovens can be manufactured with a mix of polymeric and non-polymeric materials.

Possible applications

These innovative PLA-based wetlaid nonwovens have a variety of applications in markets such as horticulture, packaging, filtration and healthcare.

In horticulture, PLA/wood pulp wetlaid materials achieve the ideal balance between good water absorption, good rooting and degradation properties due to wood pulp on the one hand, and the high strength provided by PLA on the other. These properties are required by short-, medium- and long-term plant propagation systems, e.g. for vegetable growing, flower cultivation and forestry. The new PLA-based product line complements the current range of plant propagation wetlaid materials offered by Freudenberg, based on different component mixes including wood pulp, polypropylene, polyester and viscose.

For packaging, PLA/wood pulp wetlaids open up new sustainable opportunities by replacing plastic-based packaging, e.g. bio-based desiccant bags to replace traditional synthetic desiccant bags.

Other applications of PLA-based wetlaids include embroidery backings and interlinings for apparel, and wound dressings for the healthcare market.

The two-component mix is flexible, therefore allowing for a wide range of products to fulfill the requirements of the various applications.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: Freudenberg Performance Materials Holding GmbH

Comfort Colors® Celebrates 50 Years Of Spreading Good Vibes With Immersive Game Day Experience At The University Of Georgia

CHRIST CHURCH, Barbados — October 16, 2025 — Comfort Colors®, the trusted name in high-quality, soft, ring-spun cotton, is celebrating 50 years of spreading good vibes by taking its laid-back lifestyle to one of the South’s most spirited stages. On October 18, 2025, the brand will host a 50th Anniversary Game Day Pop-Up outside Sanford Stadium during the University of Georgia vs. Ole Miss matchup, creating an immersive experience that celebrates comfort, color and community.

As part of the 50 Years of Spreading Good Vibes campaign, the activation connects Comfort Colors® with its roots in campus culture, where generations first embraced the brand’s relaxed style and worn-in softness, while welcoming a new wave of fans. Visitors can grab free branded treats from the Comfort Colors® Food Truck, browse the expanded lifestyle collection at the Merch Station, and spin the wheel to win exclusive game-day patches. Bright, shareable moments at the Mirror Selfie Station and Photo Wall Backdrop, paired with the spirited “Rush to Comfort” Greek Life Competition, invite students, fans and the Athens community to celebrate 50 years of color and comfort at the heart of one of college football’s greatest rivalries. The competition will reward the Greek organization with the strongest turnout and biggest social buzz with free Comfort Colors® tees for their next big event.

“As we celebrate five decades of Comfort Colors®’ nature-inspired hues, sun-faded softness, and ring spun durability, this milestone is also an opportunity to look at what’s next,” says Howard Upchurch, Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer at Gildan. “Comfort Colors® has always been about more than a tee. In addition to its 79 vibrant shades and best-selling tees, the brand’s 50th year marks a fresh chapter of expanded lifestyle apparel and self-expression that grows with our loyal customers. Furthermore, the brand continues to invest in sustainability initiatives and champion innovations such as Pigment Pure™, reducing water, energy use, and processing time (compared to reactive dyeing), while maintaining the brand’s signature depth of color and worn-in feel.”

For more information on Comfort Colors® and to shop original and new styles, please visit www.comfortcolors.com and the Comfort Colors® Amazon storefront.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: GILDAN

BRÜCKNER: What Modern Textile Finishing Looks Like Today At ITMA ASIA

LEONBERG, Germany — October 16, 2025 — Brückner Textile Technologies is presenting German engineering expertise and energy-efficient line concepts at this year’s ITMA ASIA in Singapore. The family-run company has been a leader in customized technologies and solutions for textile equipment for over 75 years. The focus is on energy efficiency, automation, and maximum productivity.

Brückner stenter POWER-FRAME SFP-2

The new POWER-FRAME SFP-2 stenter frame generation is being presented, which is particularly attractive for finishing fabrics with a high cotton content. This machine can be used for drying and heat-setting processes, is easy to clean thanks to horizontally arranged lint screens, and features an intelligent split-flow air circulation system, a vertical circulating transport chain, and energy-efficient motors and gas burners. With this machine, Brückner offers an alternative to the high-tech POWER-FRAME SFP-4 stenter, which is efficient, requires lower investment costs, and has short delivery times.

Of course, the POWER-FRAME SFP-4 stenter, which is unmatched in terms of energy efficiency and ease of maintenance, will also be presented for challenging processes and finishing of technical textiles. Here, Brückner will introduce new features such as electricity- and hydrogen-powered heating systems and intelligent software solutions for optimizing recipes. In addition, heat-recovery and exhaust air purification systems help to save energy and comply with environmental regulations. A new feature here is a fully automatic cleaning system that significantly reduces maintenance and personnel costs. The cleaning programs are flexible and freely configurable, and production does not have to be interrupted for cleaning purposes.

In principle, new Brückner systems can be equipped with various intelligent assistance systems on request, which help machine operators to quickly find the optimum machine settings for each process. The new ExperTex simulation tool uses artificial intelligence to simulate the desired drying or heat-setting production process on a computer. Various KPIs can then be compared with each other, e.g., throughput times, energy consumption, CO2 footprint, and production costs. This innovative system allows for precise pre-calculation of orders, opens up productivity increases and/or energy savings, and enables “right-first-time production” by means of pre-optimized recipes.

This tool and much more is available to customers in the new myBrückner customer portal. All important machine information, access to digital services, and a service system are bundled there and can be accessed at any time.

Brückner relax dryer POWER-DRY PD-1

Another new product is the POWER-DRY PD-1, a completely newly developed relax and shrink dryer for finishing knitted fabrics. This dryer is suitable for both open and tubular fabrics and can be easily integrated into an existing line concept. Customers benefit from maximum evaporation capacity in the smallest possible length, optimum shrinkage values, excellent accessibility thanks to space-saving sliding doors, horizontal lint screens, low maintenance and cleaning times, and an energy-saving suction zone. The system can also be heated using a hybrid system or even CO2-free using a high-temperature heat pump. The system has been specially designed for high-quality goods with a soft and voluminous hand, e.g., polo shirts, nightwear (interlock), single jersey T-shirts, or lining fabrics such as sweatshirts.

Customers can also look forward to a new unit in the coating sector: the OPTI-COAT 2in1 coating unit combines the advantages of floating knife and knife over cylinder, thus ensuring maximum flexibility. With a high-precision coating cylinder and a perfect ground coating knife, excellent results can be achieved for paste and foam coatings. In addition, the unit’s special design ensures optimum accessibility for cleaning and maintenance purposes.

If you would also like to benefit from these advantages or learn more about the optimization potential in your textile production, you are cordially invited to visit the Brückner team at ITMA ASIA 2025 in Singapore. In hall 7 at booth A-102, their experts will be happy to meet with you for a personal discussion and provide you with individual advice.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: Brückner Textile Technologies GmbH & Co. KG

VDMA Companies Outline Major Benefits In Finishing – And Now Dyeing Too

Pictured during the VDMA webinar are (from top) Michael Schuhmann, Rick Stanford and Saskia Kuhlen.

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — October 16, 2025 — Monforts and its partners Archroma and BW Converting are setting new standards in the resource efficient and cost-effective finishing of fabrics.

During a recent webinar organised by Germany’s VDMA textile machinery association, specialists from the three companies provided details of the range of new energy-saving options that is now available to mills.

In particular, BW Converting’s Baldwin TexCoat® G4 precision spray technology – in combination with advanced Archroma finishing formulations and Monforts MONTEX stenters and MONFORTEX shrinking ranges and related technologies – is pushing the envelope in new standards for sustainable and long-lasting clean productivity.

Functionality

Michael Schuhmann, Global Marketing Finishing at Archroma Textile Effects, explained that typical key functions provided in textile finishing include sweat and odor control, water repellence and UV resistance. Softeners are primarily applied to make fabrics more comfortable while other finishes provide reduced crease formation for easy-care properties. The traditional padding or exhaust techniques for applying these finishes require huge volumes of water and energy intensive drying.

Spray application, by contrast, requires much less water due to drastically reduced ‘pick up’ – the amount of liquid that a fabric absorbs and retains, determining how much finishing agent remains in the fabric. This also enables significantly faster drying, making process speeds of up to 100 metres per minute possible, depending on the fabric.

“As the global fashion brands commit to reducing their emissions, the textile processing industry must respond by adopting safer chemistries with resource-saving processes such as spray application,” Schuhmann said.

Precision

Rick Stanford, Vice President Global Business Development for Textiles at BW Converting, explained that at the core of the Baldwin TexCoat G4 technology are precision valves that were originally developed for the offset printing industry and have been refined over the past 40 years through more than 40,000 installations globally.

“These enable extremely precise spray flows which are controlled by proprietary software algorithms,” he said.

Over 100 TexCoat G4 units have been installed worldwide and all three companies are enjoying notable success with bed sheeting manufacturers in Pakistan.

“Our first TexCoat G4 in Pakistan was installed in Spring of 2024 for a manufacturer using Archroma chemistry and a ten-chamber Monforts MONTEX stenter,” Stanford explained. “When using the padder at this mill, the pickup rate was 65% and with TexCoat G4 we were able to reduce that to 27%. As a result, the customer was able to increase the MONTEX speed from 60 metres a minute to 100 metres a minute, while also reducing the operating temperature in the stenter. We have subsequently sold 30 TexCoat G4 units in Pakistan, driven primarily by the system’s proven productivity and efficiency gains.”

Energy savings

“A BW Converting Baldwin TexCoat G4 unit is now installed at the Monforts Advanced Technology Center (ATC) for trials and fully complementing spray finishing operations are our multiple energy saving innovations,” added Saskia Kuhlen, Monforts Engineer for Textile Technologies. “MONTEX stenters are equipped with the TwinAir air volume regulation system as well as the TwinTherm system for temperature control and feature CADstreamE variable nozzles. These features enable full adjustment to a specific fabric width for either higher operational speeds or lower electrical energy. A further benefit is the150-mm wide advanced insulation system inside the stenter frame”.

Further Monforts modules for  optimizing processes include the the coaTTex unit for the knife coating of paste and foam application and the EcoApplicator, a kiss-coating technology for the indirect application of finishes on one or both sides of a fabric, with a stenter production speed up to 100m/min. Both can be integrated into existing lines.

The Monforts Energy Tower and EcoBooster are meanwhile modules for air/air heat exchanging, for heat recovery from the exhaust flow of thermal systems. They can also be retrofitted to existing stenter frames, relaxation dryers, infrared pre-dryers and hotflues.

“We continue to explore the best heating options for every customer, with optimised combinations in order to make our lines as energy efficient as possible,” Kuhlen said. “We have also been deeply investigating the potential of green hydrogen as a further option for the future.”

BW Converting’s Baldwin TexChroma™

In response to a big market demand, the three technology partners are now turning their attention to the dyeing process.

At ITMA Asia + CITME in Singapore, from October 28-31, they will introduce the resource-saving combination of THERMEX continuous dyeing ranges with the new BW Converting Baldwin TexChroma™ spray dyeing system.

“We are excited to introduce the Baldwin TexChroma because spray dyeing is the future,” said Stanford. “We’ve been cautious about providing details on TexChroma too early, but now we’re ready and look forward to outlining its benefits in Singapore with interested customers. We will also be installing a TexChroma unit on a THERMEX line at the Monforts ATC in 2026.”

Monforts is at stand A301 in Hall 3 at ITMA Asia + CITME and BW Converting at stand B201 in Hall 8.

Posted: October 16, 2025

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG / Archroma Group / BW Converting

Inkspired: Innovations In Textile Printing Conference

RALEIGH, N.C. — October 15, 2025 — Join AATCC at the Inkspired: Innovations in Textile Printing Conference, taking place November 5–6, 2025, at the StateView Hotel in Raleigh, North Carolina. This two-day event will highlight groundbreaking developments in digital printing as industry leaders and academic researchers share insights into emerging technologies and practices shaping the future of textile printing.

Featured Presentations

The conference will include a keynote presentation on driving digital transformation in textiles, and on AI, automation, and the convergence of print technologies. Additional presentations will focus on topics such as green chemistry innovations, biomass-based inks, laser & pigment printing, cost comparisons of digital vs rotary-screen processes, and many more topics.

Keynote: Powering Change in Digital Textiles

  • Gart Davis, Co-founder and past CEO & COO, Spoonflower

What is the future for digital textiles? This presentation highlights technologies and drivers that are creating change within the digital textile printing landscape. Key themes examined will include the emergence of image-based AI as a tool for e-commerce, domestic and on-demand production as a vehicle for a more sustainable supply change, and the ability to harness technology to connect consumers with products that are steeped in story and culture.

Advancing Printed Textile Applications:

  • Image-Based Framework for Color and Pattern Evaluation
  • Kimberly P. Viron, Philippine Textile Research Institute

Greener Chemistry:

  • Smart Testing for Safer Textile Inks
  • Samantha Shintay, Hohenstein

Impact of Laser Engraving

Followed by Digital Pigment Printing on the Fabric Properties of Cotton Satin

  • Traci Lamar, North Carolina State University

Algae Ink:

  • Pioneering Biomass Waste-Stream Solutions for Textile Printing
  • Devon Murrie, Living Ink Technologies

Evaluating Cost Parameters of Digital and Rotary-Screen Printing in Textile Production

  • Lisa Chapman, North Carolina State University

Performance, Productivity, Durability, and Support

  • The Foundations for High-End Printhead Technology in Textile Printing
  • Ron Gilboa, FUJIFILM Dimatix

Baxter Mill Archive:

  • Preserving the Past, Designing the Future
  • Kathy Phillips, Baxter Mill Archive & Kathryn Lawrie, Springs Creative

Disrupting the Print Shop:

  • How Direct-to-Film Is Redefining Garment Printing Workflows
  • Danielle Hazen, M&R Printing Equipment

The conference will also feature panel discussions on Color Management for Roll-to-Roll Printing and Garment Printing, along with the AATCC Student Innovation Showcase, highlighting research from AATCC student members.

Register today to connect with leading industry professionals and academic experts at this must-attend event. Early registration rates end October 22, 2025. AATCC members enjoy discounted pricing, and AATCC student members may attend at no cost.

Free Webinar: Textile Printing 4.0

Get a glimpse into the future of textile production with an exclusive webinar on October 20 at 1 PM ET exploring how AI and automation are redefining printing workflows and manufacturing efficiency. The discussion will include:

  • AI’s role in pattern recognition, predictive control, and color accuracy
  • Robotics, conveyor systems, and IoT-enabled sensors for workflow automation
  • Case studies quantifying gains in uptime, waste reduction, and energy efficiency

Presenter – Johnny Shell

Johnny Shell is Principal Analyst for Keypoint Intelligence’s Textile & Apparel Printing Service, with nearly 40 years in digital textile and apparel decorating industry. He helps clients navigate challenges, innovate processes, and drive sustainable growth through insights on market trends and emerging applications. Previously, he served as VP of Technical Services at Printing United Alliance, leading training programs, workshops, and chaired a variety of committees. An inductee into the Academy of Screen and Digital Printing Technology, Johnny is a recognized expert, frequent speaker, and contributor to leading publications on digital printing, workflow, and color management.

Moderator – Dr. Tova N. Williams Cherry

Dr. Tova N. Williams Cherry is an Assistant Professor in the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University, where she leads The Sustainable Dye Chemistry Laboratory as principal investigator, advancing eco-friendly solutions for colorants and coloration processes. A double alumna of NC State, she earned a Ph.D. in Fiber and Polymer Science in 2018 and a B.S. in Polymer and Color Chemistry in 2010. Throughout her career she has also held roles in research and sales, including positions with Tokyo Chemical Industry, Cotton Incorporated, and American & Efird LLC.

Posted: October 16, 2025

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

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