The LYCRA Company Launches New LYCRA® Brand Products At Intertextile Shanghai

WILMINGTON, Del. — August 27, 2023 — , a global developer of innovative and sustainable fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and textile industry, announced today that it is showcasing its latest products at Intertextile Shanghai, August 28 – 30. The company’s booth will feature three new LYCRA® brand fibers making their trade show debut: LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber, LYCRA® ADAPTIV XTRA LIFE fiber and LYCRA® SHEER SENSATION technology.

To meet the market’s need for durable apparel offering more inclusive sizing, enhanced comfort and greater functionality, The LYCRA Company is expanding its LYCRA® ADAPTIV fiber portfolio to include two new fibers: LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber and LYCRA® ADAPTIV XTRA LIFE fiber.

LYCRA® ADAPTIV BLACK fiber is for long-lasting activewear and athleisure apparel that helps reduce fiber damage caused by UV rays, sunscreen, and anti-chafing creams that can negatively impact a garment’s fit, functionality and lifespan. This technology also provides durable, spun-in true black color that resists fading and minimizes fiber grin-through and glitter. Garment makers and brands can create size-inclusive garments that deliver a second-skin fit and enhanced comfort with this versatile fiber.

LYCRA® ADAPTIV XTRA LIFE fiber is the solution for durable swimwear and activewear that lasts up to 10 times longer than garments made with unprotected spandex, while also providing shaping, dynamic comfort, and a wider fit window to adapt to different body types and enabling easy donning and doffing. The Rosset Group, one of Latin America’s largest and most differentiated knitters, developed the fabrics with LYCRA® ADAPTIV XTRA LIFE fiber for Intertextile.

The LYCRA Company is also launching LYCRA® SHEER SENSATION technology in China. This proprietary anti-static version of LYCRA® fiber was developed in response to consumer insights that indicated sheer hosiery consumers desired a permanent solution to annoying static cling.

The LYCRA® brand booth will also feature fabrics and garments made with LYCRA® FitSense™ technology, moisture-wicking COOLMAX® technology for cooling and THERMOLITE® technology for lightweight warmth.

Sustainable solutions on display include our family of fibers made from 100% textile waste, 100% recycled PET, and pre-consumer recycled fiber, which are offered under brands LYCRA® EcoMade, COOLMAX® EcoMade and THERMOLITE® EcoMade. Attendees can also learn about the development of bio-derived LYCRA® fiber made with QIRA®, This sustainable offering made with field corn has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 44 percent* versus spandex made with traditional raw materials.

Intertextile Shanghai is also the Asia-Pacific launch pad of a new sustainability brand campaign by The LYCRA Company entitled “Waste for Good.” The messaging promotes the advancement of circularity in the apparel and textile industry with COOLMAX® and THERMOLITE® EcoMade technologies.

“We are thrilled that Intertextile Shanghai is back, and we look forward to meeting with strategic partners and new customers in person after its cancellation last year,” said Vincent Hu, vice president, Asia, apparel and president of the APAC region, The LYCRA Company. “We will have two years of new products on display, and we are anticipating great interest in our range of innovative and sustainable offerings designed to meet consumer needs.”

The LYCRA® brand pavilion, located in Hall 4.1, boasts its largest exhibition space yet at 932 square meters and features 28 co-exhibitors united under the theme of “Co-Create the Future Today.” Visit the Intertextile Shanghai event page on lycra.com to learn more about the pavilion, see its floor plan and explore the virtual showrooms of co-exhibitors.

*Estimate from Cradle-to-Gate Screening LCA for a representative LYCRA® fiber manufacturing facility, June 2022, Ramboll US Consulting, Inc.

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: The LYCRA Company

MAGIC Fashion Events Announces New Southeast Regional Show In Miami, January 2024

NEW YORK CITY — August 24, 2023 — Informa Markets Fashion — organizers of wholesale fashion events across the United States, including MAGIC, PROJECT, COTERIE and Sourcing at MAGIC — announces a new marketplace targeted at filling industry demand and appetite for regional shows in the new year.

MAGIC Miami offers brands the chance to gain exposure and break into new markets while opening buying and fulfillment opportunities for retailers which align with the fashion cycle outside of core collection seasons. ExhibiOng brands and purchasing buyers will have a chance to experience MAGIC with a bit of Miami as this destination offers a chance to work and play in a city known for being rich in culture, art and fashion.

MAGIC Miami will take place January 8-9, 2024, for the two-day event at the Miami Convention Center. This show provides retailers access to immediate product to expand and replenish offerings in the beginning of the year as well as pre-order an assortment of summer collections for delivery before brands launch Autumn 2024 at MAGIC Las Vegas.

“Based on our market research, customer feedback and data insights, the southeast region is a strong market for an intermediary event. MAGIC Miami will be the perfect space for brands to enhance brand recognition and explore new avenues of expansion,” said Kelly Helfman, president of Informa Markets Fashion.

Categories to shop will include trend, young contemporary, contemporary and modern sportswear apparel as well as an assortment of footwear, accessories, home, gi] and beauty. Confirmed brands include Li^le Words Project, D’Amelio Footwear, Mod Ref, Skies are Blue, Elan, Wishlist, Fate, Emory Park and Staccato.

Registration for MAGIC Miami opens soon. Sign up at www.magicfashionevents.com for the most up to date.

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: Informa Markets Fashion

AATCC To Announce 2023 Future Leaders Award Recipients

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC — August 29, 2023 — The AATCC Future Leaders Award recognizes promising young professionals in the fields of textiles, apparel, and related material sciences, provides acknowledgement and recognition to enhance their careers, engages these young professionals in the work of the Association, and brings their insights and needs to the forefront. These young professionals are the future of the textile industry and the future leaders of AATCC. Award recipients are determined by each AATCC Interest Group.

Chemical Applications Interest Group

Tova Williams is an assistant professor in the Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science Department at North Carolina State University (NCSU). She has been a member of AATCC since 2022.

Williams graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Polymer and Color Chemistry/American Chemical Society Certified Degree from NCSU in 2014. She worked with Professor Harold Freeman as a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow from 2014 through 2018, when she graduated with a PhD in Polymer and Fiber Science (Chemistry minor). After graduation, she worked with Cotton Incorporated and then Tokyo Chemical Industry America, all the while continuing her connection with NCSU, first, as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the Textile Protection and Comfort Section, and then as an Adjunct Research Professor.

Williams has published several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters and has three active grants. She also manages the Sustainable Dye Lab at NCSU, and involves graduate, undergraduate, and high school students in studies involving sustainable dyes. Her passion is getting young people involved in textile science.

Concept 2 Consumer Interest Group

Julian Rojas is a method and capability development scientist for Henkel Consumer Brands R&D. Rojas has been a part of Henkel since 2021, where he has supported and developed multiple methods for product performance assessment and technology screening. Much of this method development work involves transferring and adapting textile industry testing standards to be applied within the laundry and homecare category.

Rojas joined AATCC in 2021 and has been participating in AATCC committee meetings since spring 2022, where he now holds the chair position in the Evaluation of Materials & Products for End Use Performance Test Method Committee. He is also an active member in the Home Laundering Technology, and Hand Evaluation Test Method Committees.

Rojas received his BS in Chemical Engineering with a minor in renewable energy systems from Syracuse University. He enjoys applying his engineering mindset to his current role, where he is often troubleshooting and brainstorming ways to optimize current best practices.

Materials Interest Group

Since 2017, Joanne Brasch has served as the special projects manager for the California Product Stewardship Council in Sacramento, CA, USA, a 501(c)(3) with the mission to shift the cost burden for home generated waste. In this capacity, she was also appointed by the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery to two advisory committees for carpet and mattress recycling, and currently chairs both.

Brasch’s career involves textile economics and environmental analysis. She earned three degrees from the University of California-Davis: a BS in International Agricultural Development from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, an MS in Textiles and Clothing from the Division of Textiles and Clothing, and a PhD in Textile Economics and Environmental Analysis. While working on her masters and PhD, she performed extensive, multi-disciplinary research with the National Science Foundation on reusable/disposable medical textiles. During this time, she also served as a sustainability researcher with the University of California-Davis Health System, which involved three dissertation projects, plus participation in committees and work groups at the hospital, main campus, and the university Office of the President. The projects resulted in estimated cost-savings of over $120K and diversion of several tons of medical waste from the system. Brasch has been a lecturer at the University of California-Davis and Donghua University. Her work has been published, presented, and cited on numerous occasions.

Brasch has been a member of AATCC since 2013. She has been a member of the AATCC California Section Board since 2019, and currently serves as chair.

RISE (Rising Professionals) Interest Group

Jessica Brooks is the colorist with the Vertical Business Units for W. L. Gore & Associates. She has been with Gore since 2021. In addition, Brooks is an adjunct faculty member at Thomas Jefferson University and teaches the Color, Dyeing, & Finishing course each year in the fall semester. Prior to this, she was the Dye Lab & Technical Manager for Darlington Fabrics. From 2010 to 2019, Brooks held various positions at Brookwood Companies and Brookwood Finishing, ranging from sales to managing the physical testing laboratory & dye laboratory. She graduated from the University of Rhode Island with an MS in Textile Science and from the University of Delaware with a BS double major in Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in Legal Studies.

Brooks has been a member of AATCC since 2013. Locally, she serves as the Vice Chair of the AATCC Delaware Valley Section. Nationally, she is Chair of the RISE Interest Group and, in this capacity, serves on the AATCC Board of Directors. She is also a member of the RA36 Color Measurement Test Methods Committee. Brooks believes in helping push future generations into taking active roles within AATCC and promoting a mentorship space within the Association.

The Future Leaders Award

Nominees for the AATCC Future Leaders Award must be AATCC members who are 39 years old or younger and actively engaged in or have a history of service with AATCC or the greater textile or related industries. They must display leadership skills, and desire to become more involved with the objectives of AATCC: to increase expertise, encourage research, and establish channels for the interchange of professional knowledge.

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: AATCC

Carrington Textiles Showcases Cutting-Edge Innovations In Military Fabrics At Defence And Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023

ADLINGTON, UK— August 29, 2023 — Carrington Textiles, a leading global expert in military fabrics, is excited to announce its participation in this year’s Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition, to be held at London’s Excel from September 12th to 15th. Carrington Textiles will unveil groundbreaking innovations in military textiles, showcasing its latest developments in CBRN protection and stretch ripstop fabrics designed to meet the evolving needs of modern armed forces.

Stretching Boundaries with Spartan HT Flex Lite Among the highlights of Carrington Textiles’ showcase will be the revolutionary Spartan HT Flex Lite, a lightweight military fabric tailored to the demanding requirements of contemporary defence personnel. This innovative fabric incorporates a blend of 2% LYCRA® and 37% cotton, providing exceptional wearer comfort and integrated stretch capabilities. Spartan HT Flex Lite also features 61% CORDURA® military grade high tenacity nylon 6.6 for unrivalled durability.

“At just 195gsm, Spartan HT Flex Lite exemplifies Carrington Textiles’ commitment to providing military professionals with durable and comfortable solutions,” says Paul Farrell, Sales Director at Carrington Textiles. “Our focus on end-user comfort is embodied in the inclusion of LYCRA®, which not only offers remarkable stretch benefits but also excellent performance.”

Setting the Standard in CBRN Protection Carrington Textiles has a decade-long partnership with CQC Ltd, the UK’s premier manufacturer of Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Together, they have supplied thousands of garments made with Dakota fabric to the UK Ministry of Defence. This fabric was developed specifically for the UK MoD, and with the new addition of their own Multi Terrain Pattern (MTP), Dakota is an integral

component of the Mk4a CBRN garment, effectively safeguarding wearers from a spectrum of CBRN threats and hazards.

“Dakota’s blend of 95% cotton for comfort and 5% polyester for durability, combined with its ripstop weave, showcases our unwavering commitment to creating textiles that offer superior strength and protection,” affirms Paul. “Visitors to DSEI will have the opportunity to examine the Mk4a garment firsthand at our exhibition stand.”

CQC’s Jim O’Hara says: “Having worked with the team at Carrington Textiles on several CBRN projects using the Dakota fabric, the new MTP print has been a fantastic addition to the range. The recent fabric delivery to CQC will allow the UK MoD’s frontline CBRN troops to operate in a range of different conditions and environments worldwide”.

A 90 Legacy of Military Excellence

With a remarkable legacy spanning over 90 years in the field, Carrington Textiles has been instrumental in providing fabrics to armed forces across the globe, including the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Australasia. As part of the celebration of this rich history, Carrington Textiles will be releasing a series of enlightening case studies on its Knowledge Hub, spotlighting collaborations with the UK and Dutch Ministries of Defence and the Estonian Army.

For those seeking to explore the forefront of fabric innovations for the defence industry, Carrington Textiles welcomes visitors to its stand at DSEI in London’s Excel, from September 12th to 15th, in hall 1, stand 338. For more information and updates, please visit carrington.co.uk.

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: Carrington Textiles

Inkcups Unveils XJET Switch, Direct-To-Bag UV Printer

DANVERS, Mass. — August 29, 2023 —  Inkcups has announced the global launch of the XJET Switch, a digital printer for direct-to-bag and hard goods applications. This addition to the esteemed XJET line is the first UV flatbed printing machine formulated with high-quality bag decoration in mind. As the “Switch” title indicates, the new machine boasts flexible capabilities for both pliable and hard goods, manual load and automated load and index — either 180 or 90 degrees if some pretreatment is required.

The XJET Switch sets a new standard in swift and high-quality UV flatbed printing, producing high-quality, full CMYKWW (highly opaque white) images directly onto a variety of bags and hard goods. Its exceptional capabilities make it an ideal solution for decorating reusable bags made from a wide range of materials and colors, and it is capable of handling even the most challenging substrates such as clear and thin bags.

XJET Switch Feature Overview

  • Decorates reusable bags, totes, and hard goods;
  • Full CMYK + two Highly Opaque Whites;
  • Four rotating platens: two on each side, customizable;
  • Continuous printing design for loading and unloading while the machine is printing;
  • Instant UV light curing capability with two 16W adjustable lamps;
  • Automatic purging, wiping, and caping stations;
  • Accommodates parts up to 240 mm (9.45”) in height;
  • CE Certified; and
  • Automation-ready.

The four rotating platens of the XJET Switch are a standard feature that optimizes print productivity with two setups simultaneously. Additionally, the system provides customization options that allow for the configuration of platens to meet specific customer requirements. For instance, it is feasible to have three-up, four-up, or more within the printable area. Additionally, the industrial design allows for integrated pre-treatment.

This industrial printer is specifically designed for a 3-shift production setup, enabling rapid prints with exceptional quality. It incorporates cutting-edge functionalities including automated purging, wiping, and caping stations, white recirculating system, servo control indexer, two 16-watt adjustable UV lamps, and numerous additional features that contribute to swift production while ensuring high-resolution images for a premium finished product.

Paired with the highly flexible XFLEXX UV Ink series, the XJET Switch highlights its versatility by decorating an extensive range of reusable bags, eliminating the risk of cracking or distorting as the bag naturally moves with use. Furthermore, among the ink series, the Vivid White ink stands out, delivering a brighter and more opaque white, rivaling the printed white achieved through competing processes.

Benjamin Adner, CEO, remarked: “The XJET Switch made its trade show debut at PRINTING United in 2022, and we were thrilled to witness its immediate success. This direct-to-bag printer generated a tremendous amount of excitement among our customers, who have been eagerly seeking a consistent and sustainable way to decorate reusable bags. This innovative machine serves as the perfect solution to their needs, for tote bags and beyond, and we hope to exceed their expectations. We enthusiastically anticipate the creative possibilities that our customers will bring to life with the XJET Switch.”

Posted August 29, 2023

Source: Inkcups

 

Cinte Techtextil China 2023 To Launch New Marine Textile Zone Amid Favourable Forecast

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany— August 29, 2023 — At the crosswinds of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan for the Development of the Marine Economy and its 14th Five-Year Guidance for the Development of the Technical Textiles Industry lies the marine textile sub-sector. Following the government’s directive, the Marine Textile Zone will be unfurled at this year’s fair, taking place from 19 – 21 September 2023 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Multiple exhibitors from across China have confirmed their participation within the zone, which will be comprised of three main parts: green marine science and nautical rope netting innovation display area, the Technology Exchange Forum, and the awards ceremony of the Top 10 Suppliers in the China Rope Net Industry.

The global rope market is predicted to experience a CAGR of 5.6% and grow by over USD 4 billion between 2022 – 2027[1], and suppliers are eager for the chance to meet buyers face to face. In fact, many will use the new zone at Asia’s leading technical textiles and nonwovens fair to do so.

In the green marine and rope netting category, exhibitors will showcase the latest innovations along the marine textile industry chain, anchored by application areas such as marine engineering, marine economy, marine fencing, marine rescue, deep-sea fishing, deep-sea aquaculture, and many more. Featured exhibitors include:

Ropenet Group: covering 36 application areas, such as aerospace, marine fisheries, safety protection, and emergency rescue, the Shandong-based company has exported to over 110 countries and regions. Products include ropes, nets, threads, and belts, with new materials and high-performance synthetic fibre spinning ropes forming the core of its business.

Hunan Xinhai: with its Hunan factory covering 200,000 sqm, its industry-leading rope net production scale ensures it can service multiple sectors such as fisheries, sports, military industry, marine engineering, life-saving protection, and many more. Its extensive network spans Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond.

Zhejiang Four Brothers Rope: located in Zhejiang Toumen Port Economic Development Zone, the special chemical fibre rope manufacturer integrates R&D, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service. After nearly 60 years of operation, the company now has a yearly production capacity of over 15,000 tons.

Other notable exhibitors in this zone include Xuzhou Henghui Braiding Machine; Shandong Jinguan Netting; Jiuli Rope; and Zhejiang Hailun Rope Net.

Meanwhile, the Technology Exchange Forum will focus on policies and regulations, strategic development opportunities, market analysis, product and process innovation, and the promotion and application of marine textiles. A range of well-known international and domestic experts have been invited to deliver comprehensive industry analysis, and unveil oceanic green textile initiatives onsite.

Designed to expand the influence of the rope net industry, the Top 10 Suppliers in the China Rope Net Industry awards will highlight enterprises currently making key contributions. Other fringe events related to this textile sub-sector include the Conference on Textile Applications for Marine Engineering and Fisheries, and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA) Rope Net Branch Council Meeting.

Lastly, the Marine Textile Zone will also encompass a business negotiation area to facilitate negotiations between key players onsite, set against the backdrop of the innovation display area’s award-winning and patented rope net products. As a whole, the zone is expected to encourage independent innovation in marine science and technology, coordinate the protection and development of marine resources, and help build a modern maritime industrial system.

The fair’s product categories cover 12 application areas, which comprehensively span a full range of potential uses in modern technical textiles and nonwovens. These categories also cover the entire industry, from upstream technology and raw materials providers to finished fabrics, chemicals and other solutions. This scope of product groups and application areas ensures that the fair is an effective business platform for the entire industry.

The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd.

Lotus Teknik Tekstil Invests In ANDRITZ Metris All-In-One Digitalization Platform For Its New Nonwovens Line

GRAZ, Austria— August 29, 2023 — International technology group ANDRITZ has received an order from Lotus Teknik Tekstil A.Ş., Türkiye, to install a Metris All-In-One digitalization platform for its new WetlaceTM CP nonwovens production line from ANDRITZ. The integration will be finalized in September 2023.

The Metris All-in-One platform developed by ANDRITZ provides full support for industrial plants throughout their entire life cycle. It combines a complete range of functionalities for professional production management, simulation and optimization using the latest artificial intelligence methods, plus cyber security, and condition monitoring with smart sensors in an integrated approach.

It will support Lotus Teknik Tekstil in further optimizing the operating efficiency of its ANDRITZ Wetlace CP line by

  • ensuring a stable production process via data collection and process monitoring,
  • reducing operational costs through optimized production traceability and energy monitoring,
  • improving final product quality thanks to a stable process, and
  • reducing production waste by optimizing raw material management.

Ceyhun Zincirkiran, co-owner and managing director of Lotus Teknik Tekstil A.Ş., says: “We have already gained positive experience with a Metris installation on our spunlace line from ANDRITZ, and so we are confident that the comprehensive Metris All-In-One solution will take the production performance of our new ANDRITZ Wetlace CP line to an even higher level.”

Lotus Teknik Tekstil A.Ş. is a leading nonwoven roll good producer and a member of the Sapro group, one of the top three producers of wet wipes globally.

Posted: August 29, 2023

Source: ANDRITZ GROUP

NSK Presented With Motion’s Supplier Of The Year Award

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.  — August 28, 2023 — Motion Industries Inc. — a distributor of maintenance, repair and operation replacement parts, and a premier provider of industrial technology solutions — named NSK “2022 Supplier of the Year.” The award recognizes companies that have shown exceptional commitment to Motion through quality products and services and earned the highest score in the multi-faceted Supplier Stratification rating system. The presentation took place July 18, 2023, at NSK’s manufacturing facilities in Franklin, Tenn.

“NSK consistently seeks opportunities to increase their alignment with Motion’s strategies,” said Joe Limbaugh, Motion’s executive vice president and COO. “We appreciate NSK’s forward-thinking and their efforts to ensure Motion’s success in its growth plan.”

“It’s an honor to accept this award on behalf of everyone at NSK, from the U.S. team members to our factories around the world who support our local activities,” said Tarek Bugaighis, senior vice president – Industrial Business Unit, NSK Americas Inc. “The collaboration between our companies to serve the industrial market has been tremendous not only last year, but in the years prior as well, culminating with this year’s Supplier of the Year award. Thank you to Motion and to everyone from both companies that work so hard to deliver exceptional value to the industrial market. It has been a pleasure to work with Motion, and I look forward to all we can accomplish together in the years ahead.”

Motion’s Supplier Stratification formula is a rating system that evaluates each supplier’s performance in a number of Supply Chain, Marketing and Field Support categories.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Motion Industries, Inc.

Deakin University: New Research Facility To Help Bring Sustainable Materials To Market

Future Fibres Hub Director Professor Joe Razal, Deakin Acting DVCR Professor Matthew Clarke, ARC Chief Research Officer Professor Christina Twomey, ANFF CEO Dr. Jane Fitzpatrick

GEELONG, Australia — August 28, 2023 — Taking materials research from “lab to label” will be the focus of Deakin University’s new Future Fibres Facility, unveiled during the launch of the ARC Research Hub for Future Fibres.

The hub is a collaboration between the Australian Research Council (ARC), Deakin and industry partners, using the world-class research teams and facilities at Deakin’s Institute for Frontier Materials.

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said the continued support for the Future Fibres Hub, which is now in its second iteration, demonstrates the value industry places in research collaboration and Deakin’s commitment to fostering innovation.

“Work supported by our research hub and new fibers facility will bring benefits to a range of industries — such as automotive, mining and fashion — through a wide array of partnership projects,” Professor Martin said.

Deakin Acting DVCR Professor Matthew Clarke

“These projects also have a strong sustainability and circular economy focus, including the generation of fibers from new and sustainable sources, as well as fibers that can be recovered and reused. By creating smarter materials and technology, this work will contribute to Deakin’s mission to translate ideas to impact, fostering innovation that strengthens the economy and enables a sustainable world.”

Deakin boasts the largest and most advanced fiber research group in the southern hemisphere, with more than 110 researchers. The new Future Fibres Facility is unique, housing fibre production and yarn processing equipment, along with specialized knitting and weaving machines.

Future Fibres Hub Director Professor Joe Razal said the facility, located at Deakin’s Waurn Ponds campus in Geelong, would enable research teams to take new ideas from inception through the prototype and production stage.

“For example, in the past, we could produce a sample of a new material, but not a whole garment. We couldn’t go from lab to label before,” Professor Razal said.

“Thanks to our new Future Fibres Facility, the final steps in that process are now available.”

Working with industry partner Nanollose, Deakin researchers are helping to develop fabrics generated from waste products. With partner Xefco, they are working on a water-free method to dye and finish fabrics.

“Australians will be able to wear clothes and buy products made from materials that they know have far less environmental impact,” Professor Razal said.

In a project with Carbon Revolution, Deakin researchers will help find ways to reduce waste in the manufacturing of carbon fiber composite wheels, a product in high demand for making vehicles lighter and more efficient.

“The research focuses on solving real-world problems and discovering ways to reduce waste from the manufacturing process,” Professor Razal said.

“This not only benefits the local community with highly skilled jobs but also enhances our international reputation for innovation in Australia.”

The new Future Fibres Facility is supported by the Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF), a part of the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). The ARC Research Hub for Future Fibres includes research partners at the CSIRO, National University of Singapore, EMPA (Swiss Federal Labs for Materials Science and Technology), Aalto University (Finland) and Imperial College London.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Deakin University – The Institute for Frontier Materials

Lenzing Expands REFIBRA™ Technology To LENZING™ ECOVERO™, Setting New Responsible Viscose Standards For Textile Circularity

LENZING, Austria — August 28, 2023 — Lenzing Group, a producer of wood-based specialty fibers, has launched LENZING™ ECOVERO™ with REFIBRA™ technology at this year’s Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Textile Fair and Trade Show. Building on the success of TENCEL Lyocell fibers with REFIBRA technology, the expansion of the REFIBRA technology to LENZING ECOVERO will help Lenzing increase the overall post-consumer content in its products. The expansion further highlights Lenzing’s ongoing stride towards the transition to a circular economy in textile and fashion with its innovative, future-proof solutions.

“As climate change compels eco-conscious living, Lenzing collaborates with the industry to forge a future defined by collective engagement and systematic change, steering us toward a circular economy,” said Florian Heubrandner, executive vice president, Global Textiles Business at Lenzing. “LENZING ECOVERO with REFIBRA technology is well-positioned to meet the surging demand for diverse circular design innovations. This new offering empowers like-minded fabric mills, garment manufacturers and consumer brands to embark on this transformative journey alongside Lenzing — breathing new life into post-consumer textile waste while anchoring circularity at the core of the textile value chain.”

Scaling circular responsible viscose fiber production for global textile market

Through Lenzing’s successful development and scaled production, LENZING ECOVERO with REFIBRA technology is now available to customers worldwide. Maintaining the eco-responsible benefits of the original LENZING ECOVERO, the new viscose fiber with REFIBRA technology comprises up to 20 percent of post- consumer textile waste, which is sourced from cellulose-rich materials or polyester-cotton blends. The waste is collected and sorted in collaboration with key industry and innovation leaders who champion post-consumer textile recycling programs.

Unleashing unlimited product possibilities with circular solutions

Driven by its “Better Growth” strategy, Lenzing consistently embraces circularity in textiles and empowers itself and its value chain partners to drive systemic change for a greener future. LENZING ECOVERO with REFIBRA technology plays a crucial role in this vision, filling the gaps for mills, manufacturers, and brands that seek to meet evolving industry requirements and consumer preferences globally.

This new fiber is identifiable at every stage of the supply chain, from fabric to final product, ensuring traceability and transparency. This empowers brands and retailers to offer genuine products while enabling consumers to make informed purchases.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: The Lenzing Group

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