World Champion And Olympic Medalist Marion Clignet, Technological Co-Founder Of Jelenew Launches “Sprinters Jersey Lab”

WILMINGTON, Del. — February 21, 2024 — “When I was 22, I woke up on the floor of a store, surrounded by people asking me my name and where I lived. I knew the answers, but I couldn’t tell them.” This seizure and the following diagnosis of epilepsy cost Marion Clignet her driver’s license, and she started commuting by bicycle. Thus began the champion’s journey of an epilepsy patient. Since 1990, she has placed first in six world championship and won two silver medals at the Olympics representing France. She also broke the world record at the time in 1996 and won the French national championship many times including individual pursuit and road races.  projects.  She achieved more than 350 victories in her career, including stage wins and winning jerseys in the women’s Tour de France and the Giro Women’s Tour.

Marion Clignet

Besides cycling, Clignet was also an accomplished mountain runner, winning the French long-distance running and cycling duathlon championship and six middle-distance triathlons. She competed against men in Brittany multiple times, winning many supporters and bringing more public attention to women’s cycling. After retiring from competitive cycling, she continued to invest in cycling education and the rights of female cyclists, dedicated to advancing women’s cycling.

Throughout her 30-year cycling career, she overcame the hardships of training and the unfair treatment of women in the competition but never found cycling apparel truly designed for women, fitting their anatomical structure, physiological needs, and aesthetic demands. In her professional journey, Clignet tried various cycling shorts and jerseys only to find out that most ill-fitting apparel caused severe skin damage, sweat accumulation hindered temperature regulation impairing endurance, and chafing from the saddle led to injuries.

Whether in training or competition, she looked for cycling apparel that perfectly addressed muscle protection, comfort, and aesthetics. She believed that solving these issues could make more women fall in love with the sport of cycling. However, most women’s cycling apparel on the market was just a scaled-down version of men’s with a different print, until she encountered Jelenew, a women’s sports brand genuinely committed to addressing these issues. She decided to join Jelenew and start her new venture—creating cycling apparel that truly meets women’s needs and promotes the development of women’s cycling.

Just as she overcame the obstacles of her illness and continuously broke her records, creating high-performance and aesthetically pleasing cycling apparel became her new challenge. Jelenew used haute couture draping techniques to solve issues for female cyclists such as chest pressure, weak waist and abdominal core muscle support, and insufficient fit and flexibility in shoulders and armpits area. After joining Jelenew, Clignet co-founded “Sprinters Jersey Lab” with the Jelenew design team—a lab that could lead a revolution in sports apparel, with Sprinters Jersey holding special significance for Clignet, as it was the jersey she won in the longest women’s stage race in Idaho.

In the lab, Clignet turned past troubles into research topics. She works with the Jelenew design team to derive solutions from haute couture techniques, addressing fitting issues with CurveTec™ technology, reducing friction, providing muscle protection, and aiding in power generation. The Sprinters Jersey Lab created a internal climate control system with fabric technology tailored for different body zones. The Sprinters Jersey Lab also developed cutting-edge seamless fit technology, friction-free stitching technology, and scientific seam positions to avoid wear and damage to sensitive areas. After each development, Clignet personally participated in testing and refinement with professional cyclists to ensure the product met both athletic performance as well as women’s needs.

When she wore Jelenew’s cycling apparel to the “Le Marion Clignet” epilepsy charity bike race, she was praised for the design of her cycling apparel for the first time, reinforcing her belief that fashion is an indispensable part of women’s sports. Following the haute couture approach, Clignet and the design team continuously sought outstanding collaborators in the industry, applying top garment-making techniques to upgrade the performance of sportswear while also adding a touch of fashion.

Blending performance with aesthetics to improve women’s athletic performance and make sports more enjoyable. This is the promise issued by Clignet through Jelenew’s “Sprinters Jersey Lab”. This project is her new journey to accomplish her mission to empower women cyclists around the world.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: Jelenew Incorporated

Renewcell’s CIRCULOSE® Supplier Network Increases To 151 Partners With A Focus On Regional Hubs

STOCKHOLM — February 21, 2024 — Renewcell, the Swedish textile-to-textile recycler, welcomes 35 new members to the CIRCULOSE® Supplier Network (CSN), now totaling 151 spinners, weavers, textile mills, garment manufacturers, and more. The newest cohort consists of suppliers with vertical operations (10), yarn spinners (16), garment manufacturers (4) as well as denim and home textile mills. First launched in July 2023 with 47 textile producers, the expansion to 151 in under one year underlines the spirit of collaboration and the desire to close the loop on clothing production.

Srimal Wickremasinghe, managing director, Brushes & Needles commented: “Brushes & Needles from Sri Lanka and TexComs from Indonesia have been diligently working on developing an innovative and sustainable textile solution cooperating with CIRCULOSE technology that we believe will revolutionize the industry. In today’s rapidly changing world, the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products is higher than ever before.” Salil Dhillon, Director, TexComs Worldwide continues, “Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases and are seeking out products that align with their values. Recognizing this shift in consumer behavior, we have invested significant time and resources into creating textile products with CIRCULOSE that not only meet the highest standards of quality and performance but also prioritize sustainability throughout their entire lifecycle.”

Strategic partnerships were formed with suppliers across the globe with a focus on South Asia (7), Southeast Asia (7), and Turkey (14). With a successful representation of fiber producers and textile suppliers in other key manufacturing regions, Renewcell’s aim was to build CIRCULOSE manufacturing hubs in other strategic locations. As fiber production at Birla Cellulose in India gains momentum, establishing a localized supply chain where CIRCULOSE is readily available was paramount.

Tricia Carey

Tricia Carey, chief commercial officer at Renewcell, commented on the new partners: “Our goal was to build up key geographical regions that could service the varied requirements of our current and future brand partners. Being able to offer vertical or location-specific end-to-end manufacturing is significant for our continuous development.”

As the only industrial-scale producer of pulp made from 100-percent recycled textiles, Renewcell’s strategy
is to replace virgin manmade cellulosic fibers (MMCF) with fibers made with CIRCULOSE as well as offer a replacement for cotton, and to enhance the properties of mechanically recycled cotton. With Turkey’s large cotton textile market and growing cotton recycling industry, expanding mill partnerships in this country was a prime focus.

“Sustainability finds life deep within our fabric, like the branches of a tree,” stated Özge Arpaz, sales & Marketing Manager of Palmiye, based in Turkey. “We are open to every new project that has benefits for innovation, sustainability, and nature, and we are proud to make all our investments in this direction. Fibers made with CIRCULOSE are the most important topic in the future world where resources are scarce.”

The mills and producers in the CIRCULOSE Supplier Network are the building blocks of a circular system. As Karla Magruder, founder and president of the non-profit Accelerating Circularity, explained: “At Accelerating Circularity, we’re convinced that building circular systems is essential to make the transition to circularity. Every step in the system needs to do its part.  To scale textile-to-textile recycling the market needs systems in place and commercial.  Renewcell’s CIRCULOSE Supplier Network is the first example of putting together all the pieces through commercial entities. The ability to find and purchase yarns, knits and/or wovens at a variety of suppliers in a wide variety of geographic regions makes it possible for the next step, brands to do their part in building circular systems.”

With the growth of the CIRCULOSE Supplier Network to 151 members and the adoption of CIRCULOSE throughout the value chain, economies of scale can be achieved. Fibers, yarns, and fabrics made with CIRCULOSE are available now for fashion and home brands, both large and small.

The list of the newest CIRCULOSE Supplier Network members is below:

  • Bangladesh: Noman Terry Towels Mills
  • China: Guotai International Group, HUBO, Mozartex, Saintyear Textile, Sinotex Eco, Fibertec
  • India: Maral Overseas, TAGC India, Usha Yarns, V.Thangavel and Sons, VP Tex
  • Indonesia: TexComs
  • Portugal: ATB
  • Sri Lanka: Brushes & Needles
  • Taiwan: Chi Her Industrial, HerMin Textile, Hua Mao Nano Tech
  • Turkey: Aba Tekstil, Can Tekstil, Ereks Konfeksiyon, Eroglu, Karsu, Motif Tekstil, Orimpex Tekstil, Ozen Mensucat, Pakipek Tekstil, Palmiye, Realteks, Secen Tekstil, Süzer Tekstil, Yilmazipek
  • Vietnam: Tai Nan Textile, Tai Nan Spinning, TCE Vina Denim

For more information about Renewcell and the CIRCULOSE Supplier Network, please visit circulo.se

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: Re:NewCell AB (Renewcell)

AATCC: The PFAS In Textiles Discussion Continues

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — February 21, 2024 — Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continue to garner significant attention in textile manufacturing, given their prevalent usage in enhancing durable water repellency and stain resistance along with growing health and environmental concerns. As the discourse evolves, open collaboration among diverse perspectives is vital to making progress.

The 2024 PFAS in Textiles Conference will reconvene in Raleigh, N.C., May 2-3, 2024, at the StateView Hotel to facilitate productive multi-stakeholder discussions. Researchers, advocates, and other presenters will assemble to share insights on emerging science, explore policy updates, evaluate safer alternatives, and align on solutions. By uniting all parties, the conference aims to build understanding, reveal real-world complexities, and propel responsible innovation.

Last year’s conference catalyzed promising partnerships and initiatives, reinforcing the efficacy of cooperation. The organizers look forward to expanding the coalition and empowering attendees to take the next actionable steps towards updating best practices for PFAS textile usage – working to better safeguard consumers while enabling industries to thrive responsibly.

Colleagues from across the industry are invited to join as the conference navigates this intricate landscape together and collectively shapes the path forward.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: AATCC

Belgium’s Leading Outdoor Retailer A.S.Adventure, New Reseller Of OrganoTex

TÄBY, Sweden  — February 21, 2024 — OrganoClick’s brand OrganoTex is being launched in the Belgian A.S.Adventure’s network of stores and online platform during February.

A.S.Adventure is part of the Yonderland Group, Europe’s largest outdoor chain with over 190 stores, where OrganoTex is already represented with its Eco-labelled textile impregnation, as well as the range of biodegradable shoe care and detergents through the collaboration with the Dutch chain Bever.

With A.S.Adventure as a new retailer, OrganoTex continues its international expansion into Belgium, aligning with OrganoClick’s expansion strategy.

“We are looking forward to commencing our partnership with A.S.Adventure through our distributor for the Benelux countries, Ideavelop B.V. We are reaching a large new audience of consumers in Belgium while further developing our position as a supplier to Yonderland after a successful launch together with the Dutch chain Bever in 2023,” says Susanne Karlsson, Sales Manager for OrganoTex® at OrganoClick.

A.S.Adventure is a Belgian retail chain specializing in outdoor and sports equipment. Founded in 1995, the company offers a wide range of products for camping, hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. The chain comprises 48 stores in Belgium, Luxembourg and France.

OrganoTex is a Swedish innovation based on a patented green technology inspired by the water-repellent properties of the lotus plant. The brand includes textile and shoe waterproofing, detergent products for functional garments and a industrial DWR. All products are PFAS-free and readily biodegradable — so nothing is left in nature. OrganoTex is owned, developed, and manufactured by the Swedish greentech company OrganoClick.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: OrganoClick AB

Inspectorio Launches Supply Chain Management Platform Powered By AI

MINNEAPOLIS — February 21, 2024 — Inspectorio, creators of an AI-powered platform for quality, responsible sourcing, traceability, and production management for the supply chain, today announced the release of the Inspectorio Supply Chain Management Platform. This end-to-end supply chain solution uses artificial intelligence (AI) to provide a holistic view of supply chain operations, risks, and opportunities for optimization.

The Inspectorio Supply Chain Management Platform bundles the company’s six previous standalone solutions — Inspectorio Sight for quality management, Inspectorio Rise for sustainability and compliance, Inspectorio Tracking for production management, Inspectorio Traceability for supply chain mapping and chain of custody, Inspectorio LabSync for lab test management, and Inspectorio Docuflow for digital document management — to provide a single, integrated solution for supply chain optimization.

The new Inspectorio Platform connects supply chain processes to deliver visibility and control across the production chain, making quality control, responsible sourcing, sustainability, traceability, and production management easier. The Inspectorio Platform digitizes the supply chain workflow, and the analysis of all available data to identify and mitigate risk proactively. The Inspectorio Platform also applies AI for operational intelligence, including:

  • An AI analytics assistant which gathers and guides the user through all the data, providing detailed analytics in everyday language for deeper insights.
  • Predictive AI, which looks at all the data connected to the supplier platform, including quality performance, sustainability audits, and delivery milestones, to identify risk areas and predict outcomes.
  • Prescriptive AI, which offers corrective and preventive action (CAPA) recommendations by analyzing supplier performance and proactively recommending best practices to improve operations, reduce errors, and streamline production.

“Traditionally, supply chain participants are siloed, which makes it difficult to see what’s really happening and leads to duplicated efforts, inaccurate reporting, and inefficient supply chain processes,” said Carlos Moncayo, co-founder and CEO of Inspectorio. “With the Inspectorio Supply Chain Management Platform, we deliver instant access to insights about supply chain performance, using AI to evaluate multiple factors simultaneously. Because we operate directly within the supply chain as well, this end-to-end visibility, coupled with artificial intelligence, unlocks new potential for optimization, cost savings, quality improvement, and risk mitigation.”

Inspectorio has the largest supply-chain network, with more than 12,000 suppliers connected and collaborating within the system. The Inspectorio Platform applies AI across connected data types to evaluate the end-to-end processes from sourcing to final inspections and on-time delivery. For retail brands, the Inspectorio Platform streamlines processes and promotes a more engaged relationship with suppliers for better quality and faster delivery. For suppliers, the Platform empowers them to take control of sustainability and quality through self-assessments and meet retailer requirements in a more cost-efficient way.

The Inspectorio Platform encompasses:

  • Quality Risk Management – Helps brands, retailers, suppliers, and manufacturers standardize their quality operations to improve product quality and supplier performance.
  • Responsible Sourcing and Compliance – Enables brands to assess their supplier ecosystem for risks and measure sustainability performance against goals and compliance requirements.
  • Traceability and Transparency – Maps the product chain of custody, providing documentation of goods shipped globally to the system of record while enabling global market access.
  • Production Management – Provides real-time status visibility from the factory floor to support pre-production strategy, production tracking, and issue alerts.

According to Inspectorio executives, the platform was designed specifically to meet the supply chain needs of customers in apparel, footwear, food and beverage, home and furniture, sporting goods, and related retail categories.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: Inspectorio

emtec Electronic Set To Showcase  Latest Measuring Technology To Test Textile Haptics At The Vietnam International Trade Fair For Apparel, Textiles And Textile Technologies (VIATT)

LEIPZIG, Germany — February 21, 2024 — Coming for the first time to Southeast Asian region, the innovative emtec TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer is a state-of-the-art device that greatly simplifies and enhances the process of determining textile haptic qualities, including softness, smoothness, stretch and recovery as well as new parameters as thermohaptic and friction.

Additionally, a camera was integrated to take a high-resolution picture of the sample. In cooperation with Black Swan Textiles, a novel method for digitization and categorization of the emtec TSA sample data in a virtual database was developed — the Virtual Haptic Library. Useful for quality control and as virtual market place of the entire supply chain, it is global accessible in real time.

The — originally in the paper industry known and established as TSA Tissue Softness Analyzer — has been enhanced especially for the textile industry meeting their related expectations on relevant haptic parameters of textiles. This cutting-edge device offers unparalleled accuracy in assessing the tactile qualities of textiles, ensuring that manufacturers can meet the highest standards of quality and comfort. Comparisons of results with traditional hand panel testing methods using “touch experts” reveal a correlation of up to 100 percent.

Commenting on the upcoming event, Alexander Gruener, Global Business Development manager for emtec Electronic, expressed excitement about the potential impact of the TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer on the textile industry. “We’re especially thrilled to introduce our new technology for the first time at VIATT as comprehensive platform for the entire textile value chain. The TSA demonstrates our innovative commitment providing modern solutions to the industry´s pain-points in obtaining objective haptic numbers. We are profoundly convinced that the combination of this testing device with the cloud-based database will be a game-changer within the textile area.”

Emtec invites industry professionals, including textile manufacturers, vendors and purchasers, fashion labels, retailer and chemical suppliers to visit their booth A-N17 (hall A) to experience firsthand the capabilities of the TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer. Daniel Ohndorf (emtec Area Sales Manager) will be onsite to answer any questions.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: emtec Electronic GmbH

Mimaki To Celebrate 20 Years Of Innovation At FESPA With Latest Technologies For A Sustainable Future

AMSTERDAM — February 19, 2024 — Mimaki Europe, manufacturer of inkjet printing and cutting technologies, is set to bring the very latest in UV print technology, including brand new products, to FESPA Global Print Expo 2024 to be held March 19-22, 2024. As FESPA’s official UV Excellence Partner, Mimaki will present some of its most advanced, energy-efficient UV solutions at the center of its stand (Stand F10, Hall 12) and at its own Experience Centre, just 10 minutes away from the show grounds.

During the daily Mimaki Experience Centre tours, visitors will have the unique opportunity to further explore the extensive Mimaki portfolio, spanning sign graphics, textile, and 3D printing technologies. The tour will also include exclusive demonstrations of two new, yet to be launched products, that will assist printers in signage expand their offering even further. Registration is available online at: events.mimakieurope.com/showroom-visits]events.mimakieurope.com/showroom-visits

Mimaki’s vision for the future will be evident throughout the show, with an innovative industrial textile printing system to be launched in the company’s ‘Sustainability Corner’. Mimaki’s energy-efficient, UV technology FESPA line-up will consist of the recently launched UJV100-160Plus and UCJV330-160. The UJV100-160Plus boasts extraordinarily low power consumption, as well as additional functionalities to increase customer profitability. The UCJV330-160 integrated printer/cutter is a new addition to Mimaki’s 330 series product portfolio, offering high-speed and high-quality printing for various applications.

Following Mimaki’s recent move into the DTF market, the company’s latest addition, the TxF300-75, will be demonstrated at an EMEA-wide show for the very first time. Both DTF printers fulfil market demand for a stable and efficient DTF platform, and this new system, released in August 2023, helps to cater to a diverse set of printing demands, with high-quality output combined with high productivity.

While Mimaki is looking ahead to ways in which it can support a sustainable future, the company will also reflect on its rich heritage as an innovator. Celebrating two decades of success in the market, Mimaki will commemorate 20 years of technology ‘world firsts’, an extensive list of creative applications printed, and its many partners, customers and industry collaborators who helped make it all possible.

Danna Drion, general manager Marketing EMEA, comments, “This milestone anniversary for Mimaki Europe presents the ideal opportunity to celebrate success but, importantly, look to the future and establish how we as a team and a business can contribute to a more sustainable world during the next 20 years. Utilizing our aptitude for innovation, we will look to apply it to technologies and initiatives that contribute to this long-term goal.

“This FESPA offers a compelling chance for visitors to fully immerse themselves in Mimaki’s comprehensive product portfolio, both at the show and next door at our European headquarters. We’re excited to present our latest product portfolio to our many customers and prospects and, of course, for everyone to join us in celebrating our landmark 20-year anniversary.”

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: Mimaki Europe B.V.

lululemon And Samsara Eco Unveil World’s First Enzymatically Recycled Nylon 6,6 Product

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — February 20, 2024 — lululemon, in partnership with Australian enviro-tech startup, Samsara Eco, has unveiled the world’s first enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6 product, marking a key milestone in textile-to-textile recycling and lululemon’s work to create a circular ecosystem. Using recycled nylon 6,6 made with Samsara Eco’s technology, lululemon has created samples of its iconic Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Top, representing the first time this type of nylon has been recycled in this way.

Nylon 6,6 is a foundational fiber used by lululemon to create many of its bestselling products such as the Align and Wunder Train leggings. Today, recycled nylon is generally made from post-industrial material waste, and recycled alternatives that align with lululemon’s product performance standards are only available in limited quantities. Samsara Eco’s technology breaks down nylon 6,6 synthetic blends by harnessing engineered enzymes, recreating nylon 6,6 that can then be turned back into apparel.

“The lululemon Swiftly top samples go beyond material innovation — they represent the exciting possibilities and impact that can be achieved through collaboration and cross-industry partnership,” said Yogendra Dandapure, vice president, Raw Materials Innovation at lululemon. “This breakthrough not only signals a turning point for sustainable innovation in apparel, but for all industries looking to shift towards more circular models. We look forward to continuing to work with Samsara Eco to help scale this new technology in the months and years ahead.”

More than 90 percent of the nylon used in each of the lululemon Swiftly top samples is produced using Samsara Eco’s enzymatic recycling process, and the samples offer the same fit, feel and quality guests expect from lululemon products. The Swiftly samples also illustrate the company’s end-to-end vision of circularity by taking lululemon nylon apparel at the end-of-life stage — including lululemon leggings — and combining it with other non-textile materials to create recycled nylon for use in new lululemon products.

“Our work with lululemon represents a groundbreaking step forward in tackling the challenge of textile waste and demonstrates the potential to create a fully circular ecosystem for apparel,” said Paul Riley, CEO and founder of Samsara Eco. “We’ve started with nylon 6,6, but this sets the trajectory of what’s possible for recycling across a range of industries as we continue expanding our library of plastic-eating enzymes. This is an incredibly significant moment for the future of sustainable fashion and circularity.”

This milestone in lululemon’s multi-year collaboration with Samsara Eco is one way lululemon is advancing its goal to make 100 percent of products with preferred materials and end of use solutions by 2030.

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: lululemon athletica

A New Era: Cutting-Edge Aeroflex™ Turnout Gear From Fire-Dex Cools The Core Of Any Composite

MEDINA, Ohio — February 20, 2024 — Fire-Dex, dedicated to safeguarding everyday heroes since 1983, is thrilled to announce a new era in advanced turnout gear with AeroFlex™ — a groundbreaking leap in firefighter comfort and safety designed to decrease the risk of heat stress and cardiac-related issues, the two primary contributors to line-of-duty fatalities within the fire service.

The Peak of Technical Brilliance

At the heart of AeroFlex is Fire-Dex’s AeroVent™ Technology, an ingenious one-way-street ventilation design. AeroVent Technology enables firefighters to better regulate their core body temperature, thereby reducing the risk of heat stress and other cardiac-related incidents. The vents operate in conjunction with the pressure differential between the outer environment and the microclimate inside a firefighter’s gear, allowing sweat to escape without letting moisture, heat or carcinogens in.

By promoting airflow through dynamic movement, AeroVent Technology generates a constant cooling sensation. As the wearer becomes more active, increased air circulation within the garment results in a heightened cooling experience.

“The industry has attempted vented thermal liners or outer shells, but achieving successful moisture barrier ventilation at the same time has been a major challenge,” said Todd Herring, Fire-Dex’s vice president of Product Innovation and Strategy. “The problem lies in creating a system that allows air to flow out for cooling while maintaining the gear’s protective integrity.

“With AeroFlex, we create a microscale zone within the gear that consistently maintains a pressure differential equal or higher to the outside environment, so it can breathe while preventing moisture, liquids and heat from penetrating. Venting through all layers of the thermal liner and moisture barrier is the key to performance and something that hasn’t been achieved until now.”

Cools the Core

VaporLite™ Panels, a breathable, three-layer composite system, target the areas of the body where heat becomes most encapsulated — the armpits, side seams, inner thighs and behind the knees — allowing sweat to evaporate more efficiently than any garment available to the fire service today.

AeroVent Technology lies within the VaporLite™ Panels, facilitating airflow and promoting optimal cooling where it matters most. Together, these patent-pending technologies from Fire-Dex achieve industry-leading Resistance to Evaporative Heat Loss (Ret) and Total Heat Loss (THL) performance.

“I am amazed at how cool it felt,” said Chief Chad Christenson of the L.A. County Fire Department following a long-term AeroFlex™ wear trial. “I tried on several occasions to saturate myself with as much convective and radiant heat as possible, then when I moved around, I actually started to cool off. This has never happened in any other set of gear I have worn. The technology is amazing.”

The Choice Is Theirs

VaporLite Panel composites are built exclusively with a TECGEN71® outer shell, a CoreCXP™ 1-layer thermal liner and a choice of CROSSTECH® Black or STEDAIR® 4000 moisture barrier.

TECGEN71 is the only outer shell that can be paired with this single-layer thermal liner thanks to its exceptional breathability and thermal protection. Purchasers can choose any materials for the rest of their garment and allow these panels to cool the core of any composite.

Certified to NFPA 1971, AeroFlex turnout gear from Fire-Dex incorporates many additional features to protect wearers and elevate their performance, including:

  • Particulate-Blocking Technology
    • Particulate-blocking technology in the vents acts as a barrier against potentially harmful carcinogens from entering the garment.
  • Functionally Designed Jacket
    • Increased mobility is integrated along the shoulders and side seams to minimize restrictions in forward movement—a design that aligns with the body’s natural hinge points for optimal flexibility and minimal coat rise.
  • 3D Knee Flex Panels
    • 3D Flex Panels in the knee allow for free range of motion with hinge points that are incorporated into knee padding to ensure optimal mobility and comfort.

AeroFlex is more than gear; it is a transformative advancement, setting a new benchmark in the evolution of firefighting equipment for safety, mobility and comfort. This state-of-the-art ensemble not only symbolizes next-gen technology but also underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring that everyday heroes can confront challenges with resilience and, most importantly, return home safely.

“The difference was felt while active,” said Bradley Smith of the Long Beach Fire Department. “While moving, there was a noticeable difference among the participants who all described the gear as cooler. This is the first garment I have tested that addresses the overheating of the firefighters by reducing heat stress.”

Posted: February 21, 2024

Source: Fire-Dex

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Announces New Premium Spider Silk And Pima Cotton Composite Yarn  

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Feb. 20, 2024 — Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Inc. (Kraig Labs), announces the creation of its first premium yarn combining its recombinant spider silk with Pima cotton. This new yarn exemplifies the company’s business model at work, capturing additional value-added vertical integration in the textile and garment markets.

This yarn was designed to blend the finest quality cotton with our remarkable spider silk to create a 100-percent natural fiber composite yarn for use in fabrics and finished garments. It was manufactured in collaboration with one of the world’s leading spinners of high-quality cotton yarns and fabrics.

Working with its textile consultant, Jeff Dorton, the company investigated several potential spinners before making a final selection. The decision was ultimately driven by the technical capabilities and production capacity of the spinner.

“This is just the first of many new materials we have planned that incorporate our revolutionary spider silk,” said CEO and Founder Kim Thompson. “It seemed only fitting that our first composite yarns be blended with Pima cotton, a luxurious natural fiber that compliments the natural elegance of our recombinant spider silk. With our spring production trials quickly approaching, identifying these first end markets and applications for commercial volumes of silk is a key focus of our team.”

The company developed its first cotton-spider silk blend to target markets such as luxury dress wear and apparel. Kraig Labs is working to establish additional spider silk and natural fiber blends to address additional subsegments in formal wear. While these blends are targeted for luxury and fashion wear, the company remains focused on its development of technical applications for its spider silk materials in defensive textiles, composites, and performance apparel.

Posted February 20, 2024

Source: Kraig Labs

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