Marco Bruno Appointed New R&D Head For Avgol Nonwovens Business To Expand Innovation Pipeline

TEL AVIV, Israel — February 11, 2026 — Marco Bruno is the new Global R&D Head for the nonwovens business at Avgol, an Indorama Ventures company. With more than 20 years of experience in the textile and nonwovens industry, including extensive expertise in high‑technology textile substrates, the manager brings deep knowledge in nonwoven and textile-related applications.

Marco Bruno

He is one of the inventors on more than 10 international patent filings covering advanced breathable functional materials and innovative material engineering developments in the nonwoven field.

At Indorama Ventures’ Avgol nonwovens business, Marco’s key goal is to further strengthen the company’s collaboration with up- and downstream partners across the value chain, ensuring that innovation translates into tangible, high value benefits for customers.

Being an active member of the company’s cross-business R&D community globally, he will also work closely with colleagues developing next-generation fibers for nonwovens and those focusing on the further enhancements of surfactants for technical and personal care applications.

As part of Indorama Ventures’ market-led innovation approach, Marco is eager to contribute to solutions that meet industry trends and help customers to respond to the needs of many end consumers in the baby diaper, adult incontinence and feminine care industry.

The company’s latest efforts to develop a comprehensive portfolio of soft nonwovens addressing different customer needs will be presented at INDEX, the world’s leading Nonwovens Exhibition taking place in May in Geneva, Switzerland.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Avgol, an Indorama Ventures company

Nonwovenn Expands PFAS Free Ostomy Care Range To Meet Global Demand

BRIDGWATER, England — February 11, 2026 — Nonwovenn, one of the world’s leading nonwoven fabric-tech companies, is developing PFAS free activated carbon filter media for ostomy pouches, addressing the medical sector’s increasing need for safer, compliant and more sustainable filtration materials.

Photo – Sheila Alonso

Drawing on over two decades of expertise in the industry, Nonwovenn’s latest work combines odour and gas adsorption with low pressure drop, carbon integration and regulatory readiness.

The development is driven by regulatory scrutiny of PFAS continuing to increase worldwide. In the European Union, authorities have advanced a far-reaching proposal to restrict broad classes of PFAS under REACH. In the United States, ostomy pouches and accessories are classed as medical devices, making manufacturers responsible for materials selection, risk management and regulatory compliance. PFAS free options can help to simplify global market access and future proof product portfolios.

John Birkett, MediTech Business Director at Nonwovenn, said: “Demographic trends and regulatory changes are driving the need for next generation ostomy care technologies. We want to focus on delivering high-quality PFAS free filter media that can meet the practical and regulatory demands of modern ostomy systems.”

“Aging populations are driving greater demand for ostomy care, and we believe that reliable, discreet and comfortable pouch technology that offers effective control is incredibly important. Our customers, and the end users, are at the forefront of our minds as we continue to develop our products.”

Nonwovenn’s development programme engineers the products without intentionally adding PFAS to align with evolving legislation while maintaining adsorption and breathability. The measured performance parameters reflect published gas and composition data, odour drivers and clinical experience. Finished products are available as roll goods or cut filter inserts suitable for common ostomy pouch formats.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Nonwovenn

BARMAG: Draw Textured Yarn (DTY) Efficiency For The Future Of Fancy Yarns

REMSCHEID, Germany — February 12, 2026 — Fancy yarns continue to gain importance in the textile market: Whether in fashion, home textiles or the automotive industry – the trend towards individuality is fueling the demand for textured, haptically differentiated and at the same time comfortable yarns.

Fancy yarns on the advance

Manufacturers are faced with the task of producing complex effect structures in a precise, reproducible and energy-efficient manner.

As a technology leader, Barmag offers texturing solutions that take the production of high-quality fancy yarns to the next level of performance.

Fancy yarn technology: More variety through customized process options

Varying yarn thickness, controlled effects, special surfaces and modified textures are essential for the production of fancy yarns.

Fabric made from cotton-like fancy yarns with a soft, voluminous structure for textile surfaces with a natural, cotton-like appearance.

Barmag’s texturing machines score points here with comprehensive modular options to produce yarn types such as “Cotton-like, Linen-like, Thick & Thin, Two-Tone, Different Shrinkage or Elastane-Covered. The combination of special fancy yarn devices – including hot pin, heater clip, pre-interlacing, bypass or special godets – enables producers to achieve precise, reproducible effect structures in downstream knitting and weaving applications.

The product portfolio is complemented by atmos.io, Barmag’s operating system for intelligent yarn production. atmos.io provides a data-based basis for decision-making: it digitizes the entire material flow, with each package carrying its own data. This allows yarn manufacturers to intervene in production at any time.

Stable yarn quality for demanding fancy applications

The texturing machines from Barmag are particularly impressive due to their ability to ensure consistently high yarn quality, even in complex fancy applications. The systems guarantee stable crimp characteristics, excellent uniformity and minimal effect variations. At the same time, they enable a reliable combination of POY, FDY and elastane. This performance is based on customer-focused R&D activities that specifically address current market trends – such as cotton-like and linen-like – and consistently incorporate them into the further development of technologies.

A clear advantage in the premium segment

Reproducible high-end yarn qualities are essential, especially in the fashion, home textiles and automotive sectors: creativity alone is not enough – process reliability, efficiency and consistency are just as crucial. This is where Barmag sets standards. Thanks to the close integration of quality, flexibility, efficiency, digitalization and safety, the DTY machines offer a premium solution for the economical production of modern fancy yarns.

More process stability, more added value, less risk

Manufacturers benefit from significantly more stable processes, higher added value and noticeably reduced quality and production risks – especially in sensitive premium segments. This makes the production of fancy yarns not only more creative and versatile, but also more measurable, plannable and economical.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: BARMAG – A Subsidiary of the Rieter Group

Freudenberg Performance Materials: Presenting A Comprehensive Range Of High-Performance Tapes For Power, Data, And Specialty Cables

WEINHEIM, Germany — February 12, 2026 — Freudenberg Performance Materials (Freudenberg) is returning to the Wire trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany, after a gap of several years.

Freudenberg cable tapes.
Source: ©Freudenberg Performance Materials

The experts from the world’s leading supplier of technical textiles are looking forward to presenting their comprehensive range of high-performance tapes for power, data, and specialty cables to visitors at the trade fair and discussing solutions with them at stand D19 in Hall 13 from April 13-17.

Freudenberg will showcase its high-performance cable tapes for all kinds of applications, including power, data, fiber optic, telecom, and special cables. Its cable tape product range for medium (MV) and high (HVDC and HVAC) voltage cables includes semi-conductive and non-conductive water-blocking tapes, binding tapes, bedding tapes, separation tapes, and special developments.

These tapes are critical for protecting and maintaining the structural integrity of cables, in particular thanks to their outstanding swelling performance and conductivity.

For submarine cables, Freudenberg offers tapes with exceptional water-blocking capabilities that are specifically designed to react instantly upon contact with water, swell into the fine spaces inside the submarine cable, and seal against moisture.

Example of applications for Freudenberg’s cable tapes in high voltage power cables.
Source: ©Freudenberg Performance Materials

“Freudenberg is a globally preferred partner of cable manufacturers as regards the development, manufacture and supply of high-performance tapes for the most demanding power and data transmission applications. By returning to Wire in Düsseldorf, we are strengthening our ties within the industry and demonstrating our commitment to supporting cable manufacturers in meeting today’s and tomorrow’s energy and digital challenges” says Jochen Bialek, Head of Global Sales Cable & Electro.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Freudenberg Performance Materials

Atlas Publishes EV Weathering Testing Guide For Evaluating Long-Term Durability Of EV Interior And Exterior Materials

MOUNT PROSPECT, Illinois — February 11, 2026 — Atlas, the global supplier of weathering and lightfastness testing, has published the Atlas EV Weathering Testing Guide, a new application resource designed to help electric vehicle development teams and testing laboratories evaluate the durability of exterior and interior materials under realistic environmental stress.

The guide brings together accelerated laboratory weathering, benchmark outdoor exposure, and practical guidance to support confidence in long-term material performance.

EV Durability Brings Higher Combined Stress Exposure

Electric vehicles use a wide range of materials and functional systems which face combined stresses that add up quickly. Prolonged solar radiation, high temperatures, moisture exposure, and repeated thermal cycling can all be in play at once. Interior surfaces behind window glass can reach temperatures exceeding 100° C on dark materials, while exterior parts are exposed to ultraviolet radiation, heat, dew, rain, and rapid temperature changes. Without application-appropriate validation, these combined stresses can lead to fading, warping, cracking, delamination, and functional degradation – affecting appearance, mechanical integrity, and long-term performance.

Supporting Earlier Validation Under Tight Development Timelines

OEMs, suppliers, and emerging EV manufacturers routinely face critical questions: Will exterior materials withstand worst-case outdoor exposure? Can interior materials tolerate sustained heat and sunlight behind glass? Are suppliers delivering components that meet durability requirements consistently across programs? Weathering testing helps material scientists answer these questions using standardized, reproducible methods.

Atlas Full-Spectrum Xenon-Arc Simulation for Interior and Exterior Parts

Atlas xenon-arc laboratory weathering simulates full-spectrum sunlight – including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation. This full spectrum matters for colored materials that respond to visible light, and for materials sensitive to long-wavelength UVA, which can be underrepresented in fluorescent UV testing.

Atlas’ rotating rack instruments, the Ci Weather-Ometer® and Xenotest® systems, provide best in class uniformity for flat specimens used in critical material qualification work. The Atlas SUNTEST® static horizontal systems, are perfect for three-dimensional parts, molded components, assemblies, and complex geometries that are difficult to mount in rotating racks.

Optical Filter Selection and Setup Consistency Influence Comparability

Daylight filter selection is a key determinant of exposure relevance, and window glass filters are used to simulate filtered sunlight conditions typical of interior testing behind glazing. Specimen mounting and backing can influence heating and moisture behavior. When setup details are not defined by the test standard, those variables can affect comparability between methods – and between labs. Atlas experts understand these factors. From technical advice to final test method implementation, Atlas provides the support that you need.

Benchmark Outdoor Exposure Supports Long-Term Confidence

Laboratory outcomes are often validated through natural weathering benchmarks. Atlas operates benchmark exposure sites in subtropical Miami and desert Phoenix, providing reference climates characterized by high UV levels, moisture-driven stress from overnight dew, and extreme heat.

These natural benchmark exposures are useful, especially for correlation studies and determination of acceleration factors. Natural test options include static exposure racks, glass-covered enclosures for interior simulation, and approximately five-times concentrated sunlight devices such as EMMAQUA®. Newer approaches using ten “cool” mirrors expand testing capability for temperature-sensitive materials that cannot tolerate higher heat loads typical of traditional concentrated sunlight exposure. Equally important is Atlas’ unique Ultra‑Accelerated EMMA/EMMAQUA technology, which uses approximately ten‑times concentrated sunlight from twenty “cool” mirrors to deliver extremely high acceleration without overheating test specimens.

Correlating Accelerated Testing with Outdoor Results

Correlation studies connect accelerated laboratory exposure to natural weathering performance by comparing degradation trends and time-to-failure. Statistical measures, including Pearson correlation coefficients, can help teams evaluate whether laboratory parameters are reliably predicting outdoor behavior – and where refinement is needed when correlation is insufficient.

“Durability results can be difficult to compare if exposure conditions and setup details aren’t aligned,” said Dr. Oliver Rahäuser, Senior Product Manager at Atlas Material Testing Technology. “The guide highlights the parameters teams need to control and document, so results can be compared more reliably across methods, labs, and test partners.”

The Atlas Application Guide: “Weathering Testing of Electric Vehicles” is available now. To request a copy, contact Atlas. https://www.atlas-mts.com/contact/contact-us

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Atlas MTS, A business of AMETEK, Inc.

Rieter Responds To Higher Raw Material Prices

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland — February 12, 2026 — Global political and economic developments have been leading to rising raw material and energy costs for some time.

The textile machinery industry is also affected by this trend. Rieter machines and components consist to a large extent of steel, copper, aluminum and electronics. These materials in particular have seen higher demand and higher prices in recent months.

Rieter has not yet passed on the additional costs to its customers. Since the price trend is proving to be long-term, the company will adjust its prices from March 2026.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Rieter Ltd.

Porcher Industries Revolutionizes In-Situ Consolidation With New Shape-Memory Thermoplastic Hybrid Textiles

BADINERES, France — February 13, 2026 — Porcher Industries, a global pioneer in high-performance thermoplastic composites and a leader in technical textiles, unveils its latest innovation: a new range of multilayer hybrid textiles designed for sectors such as sports, leisure, automotive and medical applications.

Fabric with shape-memory properties

Specifically developed for in-situ consolidation processes, this breakthrough overcomes several technological barriers by bypassing the limitations of conventional thermoplastic prepreg fabrics.

This hybrid textile structure offers, among other advantages, exceptional deformability and drapeability combined with shape-memory properties. Showcased at JEC World 2026, this solution highlights Porcher industries’ textile expertise and its strong commitment to the thermoplastic composites ecosystem.

Traditional thermoplastic prepregs often reach their limits when it comes to consolidating complex shapes in situ. Porcher industries addresses this challenge with a unique hybrid textile structure made from commingled yarns based on glass, carbon, or aramid fibers. The result is a material with a high areal weight (up to 3 kg/m²), significantly reducing the number of plies required and thus offering considerable draping time savings. Its outstanding deformability and shape-memory effect enable the forming of complex 3D geometries without the use of additives such as spray glue, while the integrated low-temperature preforming function ensures precise positioning in the consolidation tool when necessary.

Compatible with a wide range of in-situ consolidation processes—from vacuum molding to advanced heating/cooling systems—this hybrid textile enables manufacturers to produce high-quality composite parts in under 10 minutes (with suitable heating/cooling equipment). It democratizes access to thermoplastic composites and opens new perspectives across numerous markets.

Complex thermoplastic part

Building directly on this innovation, Porcher industries also offers dry multilayer textiles dedicated to RTM or infusion processes. These fabrics share the same characteristics as the hybrid version: high areal weight, shape-memory effect, preforming capability, and more.

Beyond its technical performance, this solution is part of a responsible manufacturing approach. The recyclability of thermoplastic composites, combined with lower-energy and low-waste production processes, positions this innovation as a major advance toward sustainable manufacturing.

Porcher industries thus reaffirms its driving role in the evolution of composite technologies, providing OEMs and manufacturers with a flexible, efficient and sustainable pathway to next-generation materials.

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Porcher Industries

VIATT 2026 To Debut German Pavilion, Strengthening European Participation Alongside Key Asian Textile Hubs

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam — February 13, 2026 — Vietnam’s textile and garment sector continues to be a major contributor to the country’s economic growth, with export revenues expected to reach USD 46 billion in 2025, a 5.6% increase from 2024 . From 26 – 28 February, the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) is set to contribute to economic growth opportunities by accelerating digital transformation and green transition across the entire textile value chain. The upcoming edition will respond to the rising demand for advanced technologies and sustainable materials with the introduction of the German Pavilion, alongside strong exhibitor participation from key Asian sectors, as well as several high-profile fringe events.

At its third edition, the fair will feature seven country / region pavilions and zones from China, Germany, Europe, India, Japan, Taiwan, and Türkiye, spanning VIATT’s three core sectors and the entire supply chain: Apparel Fabrics & Fashion, Home & Contract Textiles, and Technical Textiles & Technologies.

The inaugural German Pavilion, organised by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) in cooperation with the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA), will be a focal point within the returning European Zone, which also spotlights leading exhibitors from Italy, Switzerland, Türkiye, and the UK. The pavilion will provide buyers with direct access to a comprehensive range of well-engineered products and solutions, emphasising quality, compliance, and time-proven manufacturing. Participating companies include:

Apparel Fabrics & Fashion
•    MUEHLMEIER Bodyshaping: a global leader in high-quality bra cups, shoulder pads, and garment accessories for lingerie, swimwear, and sportswear. The company combines innovative design, precise engineering, and sustainable production to deliver products that ensure comfort, perfect fit, and reliable support.

  •   Karl Conzelmann: with over 100 years of family-owned expertise, this producer of fine lingerie, ladies’ underwear, and loungewear knits most of its fabrics in Germany using high-quality yarns including sustainable micromodal, modal/viscose, and GOTS-certified cotton.
  •    Dalat Worsted Spinning (Suedwolle Group): since 1966, this family-owned business has produced dyed and natural worsted yarns in 100% wool and wool blends, with parallel manufacturing in Europe and Asia, including Vietnam’s first and most advanced worsted spinning mill in Da Lat.

Home & Contract Textiles
•    Huegin-Trietex: specialising in sun protection solutions, the company has been a leading producer of high-quality motors for interior window coverings since 1977. The Trietex® brand is renowned for its durability and reliability in vertical blinds and curtain tracks, making it a trusted choice in both commercial and residential settings worldwide.

  •    Paradies: for over a century Paradies has pioneered high-quality bedding, including the world’s first washable textile fibre duvet, setting standards for healthy, restorative sleep with sustainable, natural materials produced entirely in Germany and supplied to customers in around 50 countries worldwide.

Technical Textiles & Textile Technologies
•    Georg Sahm: as a leader in automatic winding technology for high performance fibres and technical yarns, Sahm offers innovative solutions in winding and unwinding technology as well as support for upstream and downstream winding-related processes.

  •    IBENA Shanghai Technical Textiles: specialises in high-performance materials, including emergency clothing for fire brigades, automotive seat cushions, and decorative textiles for stage productions.
  •    Lindauer DORNIER: one of the world’s technology leaders with its product lines of weaving machines, film stretching lines, and composite systems. The company manufactures advanced weaving machines that create high-end fabrics, including airbags, filters, and premium silk. It also leads the market in film stretching, producing ultra-thin plastic films for various tech applications.
  •    ZSK Stickmaschinen: producing outstanding embroidery, its machines combine premium quality with technical intelligence – used in apparel textiles, medical technology, aerospace, automotive, and beyond.

The pavilion’s lineup will be further enhanced by Global Standard (textile standards, certification) and Hohenstein Laboratories (testing, certification, quality control).

VIATT 2026 will continue to gather major exhibitors from Asia and beyond, solidifying the fair’s role as a hub for diversified textile supply and manufacturing partnerships in ASEAN. Beyond pavilions and zones from Germany and East Asia, one other pavilion is set to feature prominently: the India Pavilion, organised by TEXPROCIL (The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council), will return with 21 companies showcasing the country’s export-ready capabilities and breadth in cotton textiles and related categories. Notably, it will promote Kasturi Cotton, an initiative launched by the Ministry of Textiles, Textile Trade Bodies, and Industry, aimed at enhancing the value of Indian cotton according to established benchmark specifications. This pioneering initiative focuses on traceability, certification, and branding, setting a new standard for Indian cotton in the global market.

Fringe programme adding insights for Vietnamese and global sectors
Beyond the show floor, the fair will offer diverse opportunities for industry players through its wide range of fringe events spanning trends, innovation, market updates, and textile business strategies. Featured events include:

  •    TGIS 2026 (Vietnam Textile & Garment Industry Development Strategy Summit):  this summit will delve into critical topics such as AI & Upgrading, Sustainability & Compliance, and the International Brand Perspective on Vietnam. With networking a key focus, the event will also include dedicated matchmaking sessions between manufacturers and retail brands.
  •    Textile Industry Exchange: under the topic of The Trade Uncertainties in 2026, this roundtable event will bring together industry leaders to share valuable insights on critical topics, including tariffs in the US, the EU’s ecodesign regulations, and the impact and opportunities across Asia supply chain.

The Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE). For more details on this fair, please visit www.viatt.com.vn or contact viatt@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.

VIATT 2026 will be held from 26 – 28 February 2026.

Other upcoming shows:

Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition / Yarn Expo Spring / Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition
March 11 – 13, 2026, Shanghai

Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics / Yarn Expo Shenzhen
June 9 –11, 2026, Shenzhen (Futian)

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition
August 18 – 20, 2026, Shanghai

Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition / Yarn Expo Autumn
August 25 – 27, 2026, Shanghai

Cinte Techtextil China
September 1 – 3, 2026, Shanghai

Posted: February 14, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

NCTO Urges House Leaders To Block Damaging Legislation That Would Reopen A Loophole And Harm U.S. Textile Industry

WASHINGTON, D.C.— February 12, 2026 — National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) President and CEO Kim Glas sent a letter to House leaders urging them to oppose and block the Secure Revenue Clearance Channel Act, a bill that would essentially reopen a dangerous trade loophole and ultimately harm U.S. textile manufacturers.

NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas

See the full letter here.

“Last year through bipartisan action, Congress voted overwhelmingly to end de minimis after identifying the substantial harms it perpetrated,” Glas states in the letter to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (D-LA) and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). “The House China Select Committee determined in 2023 that Chinese e-commerce platforms were flooding the U.S. with billions of dollars’ worth of goods but had paid $0 in import duties, while American companies comparatively spent millions. Additionally, these platforms were found lacking in due diligence mechanisms to verify that products were not tainted by forced labor in China.”

Last year, Congress passed bipartisan legislation codifying the end of de minimis, effective July 2027. The Trump administration also took action to close de minimis to all commercial shipments globally through executive order, which took effect at the end of August 2025.

“As a result, the volume of small package deliveries has dramatically decreased, duty collections are up, and American consumers and workers are better off,” the letter states.

“Despite clear action from Congress and the administration on the negative impact of expresss shipment programs for ‘small value’ packages at U.S. ports, some still want to provide duty relief to foreign importers while requiring less information on packages valued at up to $600 — making enforcement impossible and rewarding offshore producers,” the letter continues. “De minimis was labeled ‘China’s backdoor to the U.S.,’ facilitated by an environment where goods were cleared on manifest, packages were not properly inspected or levied duties, and the risk posed was extremely high. The Secure Revenue Clearance Channel Act would recreate many of these same problems, with China being the biggest winner.”

Posted: February 12, 2026

Source: National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)

PLASTICS Economic Analysis: Examining U.S. Plastics Trade With El Salvador And Guatemala

WASHINGTON, D.C.— February11, 2026 — The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) Chief Economist, Dr. Perc Pineda, has released a new economic analysis examining U.S. plastics trade with El Salvador and Guatemala, and the implications of recent reciprocal tariffs on supply chains, manufacturing competitiveness, and regional trade relationships.

Perc Pineda, Chief Economist, PLASTICS

Dr. Pineda writes, “Beyond supporting domestic manufacturing, the targeted use of reciprocal tariffs—alongside narrowly defined exemptions for pharmaceutical and aircraft-related plastics—points to an effort to balance trade openness with supply-chain reliability and operational resilience.

“Even as the United States continues to post strong plastics trade surpluses with CAFTA-DR partners, these measures suggest a pragmatic approach to managing exposure, reinforcing regional production networks, and maintaining dependable access to critical inputs.

“Taken together, the policy framework remains consistent with longstanding cooperative trade relationships while adapting to changing economic and industrial conditions.”

To read the full analysis visit :

https://www.plasticsindustry.org/blog/reciprocal-tariffs-and-us-plastics-trade-with-el-salvador-and-guatemala/

Posted: February 11, 2026

Source: The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)

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