Avery Dennison Showcases Digital ID Innovations To Textile Industry Delegates At Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics Expo 2023

MENTOR, Ohio — August 28, 2023 — Avery Dennison , a global supplier of materials science and digital identification solutions, is inviting Intertextile 2023 attendees to discover the potential of bridging the physical and digital realms with advanced digital identification solutions for apparel.

Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics 2023 (August 28-30) takes place at The National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai, and is one of the biggest and most comprehensive apparel fabric and accessories exhibitions in the world.

With the ability to interact directly with connected garments at the Avery Dennison booth (1.1 – E77, Hall 1.1 Accessories Vision), Intertextile attendees will be invited to See Beyond the Physical, the Digital and into the Future, and witness the benefits of connected apparel solutions in real-life situations. They will see how the company’s innovative digital ID portfolio, featuring Avery Dennison’s connected product cloud, atma.io, and its broad portfolio of digital triggers, including QR codes and RFID, can track a products’ full chain of custody along the supply chain.

The interactive exhibit will illustrate how garment manufacturers and retailers can benefit from real-time insights, helping them improve supply chain accuracy and efficiency, reduce waste, enable circularity, and strive to meet net-zero targets.

Through demonstrations of Avery Dennison’s apparel portfolio, which include Embelex, Factory Solutions (including on-demand manufacturing), and Digital Solutions, the company is showcasing how its technology contributes to a more sustainable future for textiles on a global scale. Items displayed will include a Connected Garment, Swijin performance wear embedded with digitally connected heat transfer labels, a digitally-connected BYBORRE Scarf, and Transnomadica vintage jeans embedded with digitally-connected printed fabric labels. Embelex Agility® HD heat transfers for sports jerseys, which can be digitally enabled, will also be on show.

Amelia Chen, Asia commercial director, Apparel Solutions, Avery Dennison, and Leo Shi, senior manager, apparel & beauty market development, Avery Dennison Smartrac Greater China, Avery Dennison, will be speaking at the event on 29th August. Their session is entitled: “See Beyond the Physical and Digital – Unlock Digital Transformation in Apparel.”

In-booth presentations, led by Avery Dennison experts, will be running simultaneously. These will explain how end-to-end Digital Solutions can unlock the transformation of the apparel industry and connect data from raw materials to consumers.

Jenny Hu, China sales director, Apparel Solutions says: “We consider the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics event to be a crucial platform for highlighting Avery Dennison’s significant position as a worldwide frontrunner in the apparel supply chain. Our ability to merge the realms of physical and digital, coupled with our leadership in digital ID innovation, will take centre stage. This event will serve as a showcase for the substantial value our solutions provide to the fashion and textile sectors.”

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Avery Dennison Corporation

686 And Nikwax® Announce Aftercare Partnership

SEATTLE, Wash. — August 28, 2023 — Nikwax, an international supplier of technical cleaners and waterproofing products for outdoor gear and apparel, has joined forces with 686 to provide its fans with safe and effective ways to keep their gear performing at its best over the life of the garment.

“As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’re responsible for making sure the goods we produce perform to their fullest potential for the longest time possible. A dedicated partnership with Nikwax supports this commitment. Their PFAS-free aftercare products empower our fans with simple solutions to extend the performing lifetimes of their 686 outerwear investments, while doing so in an environmentally responsible way that aligns with our key sustainability pillars. We’re looking forward to educating our fans about these solutions and bringing product care to the forefront,” said Jake Moyer, Customer Experience manager at 686.

With proper care and maintenance, apparel lasts longer and performs better, all while minimizing environmental impact. The partnership highlights 686’s understanding that sustainability is not a destination but a way of behaving to lessen its impact on the planet. To kick off the partnership, this fall, 686 will be offering free samples of Tech Wash to fans purchasing through its site during the initial launch of its 23/24 outerwear collection. Additionally, 686 will be using products, education, and assets provided by Nikwax to ensure the best possible product care experience for every fan.

“Helping outdoor gear perform better and last as long as possible is the foundation of our business,” says Brian Davidson, president of Nikwax North America. “Since our founding in 1977, we have focused on developing easy-to-use, high-performing, PFAS-free solutions that help people extend the life of their outdoor clothing, footwear, and gear. We are thrilled to partner with 686 on educating their customers about the importance of product care.”

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Nikwax North America Inc.

AATCC: 2023 Midyear New And Revised Standards

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — August 28, 2023 — AATCC publishes standards that have been approved since the new year release of the AATCC Manual of International Test Methods and Procedures. The standards are available for download from the AATCC store. Get access to either the full set of midyear standards or individual standards.

This year, twenty-one (21) approved standards have been developed or revised since publication of the 2023 volume of the AATCC Manual of International Test Methods and Procedures. This includes new Lab Procedures, one for using bleach in home laundering and another for preparing synthetic soil as well as one new standard for measuring condensation. Of the 21 approved standards, three were newly developed, nine test methods were revised, and nine other test methods were editorially revised.

2023 New Test Methods and Lab Procedures

The new test method and laboratory procedures are as follows:

AATCC TM214-2022, Test Method for Measuring Condensation on Textiles in a Humid Microclimate:  The purpose of this newly developed test method is to measure water condensation accumulation in the innermost (back) surface of fabrics in a humid microclimate, with and without simulated precipitation on the outermost (face) fabric surface. The method is applicable to fabrics or multi-layer fabric systems. Read more about TM 214 at www.aatcc.org/tm214/.

This new test method was developed by RA63 in 2022. RA63 is the Water Resistance, Absorbency & Wetting Agent Evaluation research committee that is responsible for developing test methods for evaluation of water-resistance and repellency of textiles.

AATCC LP04-2023, Laboratory Procedure for Synthetic Soil: Synthetic soil was developed for standardized carpet soiling. It is used as a soiling option for stain and soiling evaluations. Though synthetic soil originated from carpet-related methods, its use is not limited and can be used in other methods requiring a synthetic soil application. Read more about LP4 at www.aatcc.org/improved-soil-standards/.

This new laboratory procedure was developed by RA57 in 2023. RA57 is the Floor Covering Test Methods research committee that is responsible for developing test methods that will reliably predict the use characteristics of all types of floor coverings.

AATCC LP5-2023, Laboratory Procedure for Home Laundering with Bleach: This new procedure provides standard conditions for home laundering with bleach, using an automatic washing machine. Option 1 is for sodium hypochlorite (“chlorine bleach”). Option 2 is for sodium percarbonate (“non-chlorine bleach”). This test is applicable to all fabrics and end products suitable for home laundering. It may be used to determine whether a sample is suitable for laundering.

This new laboratory procedure was developed by RA88 in 2023. RA88 is the Home Laundering Technology research committee which aims to encourage and promote discussions on current developments and problems associated with the use of standard and new chemical materials, including soaps and detergents, bleaches, water and fabric softeners, enzymes, and any other auxiliaries available to the consumer for use in home laundering and coin-operated machines, which may affect color, performance and special functional finishes and the ecology.

2023 Revised Test Methods

The revised test methods are as follows:

  • AATCC TM16.1-2023, Test Method for Colorfastness to Light: Outdoor: Revised in 2023 to align to AATCC style guide.
  • AATCC TM16.2-2023, Test Method for Colorfastness to Light: Carbon-Arc: Revised in 2023 to align to AATCC style guide.
  • AATCC TM111-2023, Test Method for Weather Resistance of Textiles: Exposure to Daylight and Weather:  Revised in 2023 to align with the AATCC style guide.
  • AATCC TM149-2023, Test Method for Chelation Value of Aminopolycarboxylic Acids and Their Salts: Calcium Oxalate:  Revised in 2023 to clarify and align with prescribed AATCC style guidelines.
  • AATCC TM161-2023, Test Method for Color Change of Disperse Dyes Caused by Metals, with and without Chelating Agent:  Revised in 2023 to clarify and align with prescribed AATCC style guidelines.
  • AATCC TM168-2023, Test Method for Chelation Value of Polyaminopolycarboxylic Acids and Their Salts: Copper PAN: Revised in 2023 to clarify and align with prescribed AATCC style guidelines.
  • AATCC TM179-2023, Test Method for Skew Change in Fabrics After Home Laundering: Revised in 2023 to add that optionally, the direction of skew may be reported.
  • AATCC TM186-2023, Test Method for Weather Resistance: UV Light and Moisture Exposure: Revised in 2023 for clarity and to align with style guidelines.
  • AATCC TM192-2023, Test Method for Weather Resistance of Textiles: Sunshine-Arc Lamp Exposure with and Without Wetting: Revised in 2023 to align to the AATCC style guide.

2023 Editorially Revised Test Methods and Evaluation Procedures

The editorially revised test methods and evaluation procedures are as follows:

  • AATCC TM20A-2021e, Test Method for Fiber Analysis: Quantitative: Editorially revised in 2023 to update numbering in section 17.
  • AATCC TM43-1952e6(2018) e3, Test Method for Wetting Agents for Mercerization: Editorially revised in 2023 to move the History section.
  • AATCC TM61-2013e (2020) e2, Test Method for Colorfastness to Laundering: Accelerated: Editorially revised in 2023 to update designation and History section.
  • AATCC TM79-2010e2(2018) e3, Test Method for Absorbency of Textiles: Editorially revised in 2023 to move History section.
  • AATCC TM107-2022e, Test Method for Colorfastness to Water: Editorially revised in 2023 to correct misspelling.
  • AATCC TM163-2013(2020) e4, Test Method for Colorfastness to Storage: Dye Transfer:  Editorially revised in 2023 to update history.
  • AATCC TM174-2022e, Test Method for Antimicrobial Activity of New Carpets: Editorially revised in 2023 to correct section formatting.
  • AATCC EP10-2018e2, Evaluation Procedure for Multifiber Adjacent Fabrics: Editorially revised 2023 to clarify the Notes section and to move the History section.
  • AATCC EP14-2021e2, AATCC Evaluation Procedure for Small Color Differences:  Editorially revised in 2023 to correct a typo.

Withdrawn Standards

These standards will no longer be included in the full year publication of the AATCC Manual of International Test Methods and Procedures.

  • AATCC TM142, Test Method for Appearance of flocked Fabrics after Home Laundering and/or Coin-Op Drycleaning
  • AATCC TM96, Test Method for Dimensional Changes in Commercial Laundering of Woven and Knitted Fabrics Except Wool.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: AATCC

Vietnam International Trade Fair For Apparel, Textiles And Textile Technologies (VIATT) 2024’s Strong Prospects Highlighted At Intertextile Apparel Press Conference

WANCHAI, Hong Kong — August 28, 2023 — Harnessing the synergy of the Texpertise Network of Messe Frankfurt and its global apparel flagship, the co-organizers of the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) recently held a joint press conference on August 28, 2023, the first day of Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition. Discussing the inaugural fair’s comprehensive, business-friendly nature, representatives of both Messe Frankfurt and VIETRADE spoke in glowing terms about the potential of ASEAN’s new platform for the entire textile industry. Set to launch the spring sourcing season, the fair will take place from February 28-March 1, 2024, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), Ho Chi Minh City.

For its first edition, the fair is expected to attract over 500 exhibitors and around 35,000 visitors to an 18,000 sqm exhibition space. Wendy Wen, managing director of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd., considered the show’s importance on a worldwide scale: “Serving as a supplementary trade fair to our existing events in China, VIATT will effectively extend our market reach into South East Asia. We’ve designed it to reinforce our global Texpertise Network, spanning the entire textile value chain. The network, which links over half a million textile professionals globally and organises more than 50 international textile trade fairs across 11 different countries, will lend its full support to the fair.”

She continued: “In line with this commitment, we will harness our more than 30 years of experience organizing Intertextile in China, and extend to the fast-growing textile sector in Vietnam. Intertexile has grown to be by far the most influential series within our Texpertise Network, covering a broad range of resources in apparel fabrics, home and contract textiles.”

With Vietnam’s largest international airport and seaport, and its proximity to other textile producing countries and regions, Ho Chi Minh City is strategically located to hold an event of this nature. The city attracts 35 percent* of Vietnam’s foreign direct investment projects, and is the venue of choice for a significant portion of the country’s trade fairs.

Discussing the event’s potential, Vu Ba Phu, director general of Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE), said: “Vietnam has emerged as one of the leading textiles exporting countries worldwide, with particularly high growth in the past 10 years, ranging from 15 to 20 percent yearly. As companies seek to diversify supply chains, and Vietnam introduces lucrative trade agreements, the market is predicted to attract even more investments. A big importer of textile machinery, fabrics, and yarns and fibers, green production and durable goods have become increasingly important. VIATT 2024 will be an important hub helping suppliers and buyers in all categories to meet, source and unleash the full potential of this market.”

A comprehensive Vietnam-based textile fair is an attractive proposition for manufacturers and sourcing professionals alike. Exhibitors from around the world will showcase a full spectrum of apparel fabrics, yarns and fibers, and garments; the latest innovations in technical textiles and nonwovens, textile processing, and printing technology; as well as a wide range of home and contract textiles.

Apparel fabrics, yarns and fibers, and garments

This sector will contain quality exhibitors from Vietnam, ASEAN, and beyond, providing buyers with numerous, diverse sourcing options in apparel textile sub-categories such as accessories, casualwear, denim, lace and embroidery, ladieswear, pattern designs, shirting, sportswear, suiting, and many more.

Technical textiles and nonwovens, textile processing, and printing technology

With application areas that include everything from automotive, aerospace and shipping, to construction, healthcare and safety, products on display will include innovative machinery, as well as some of the latest developments in smart textiles, such as wearable technology, sensors, and advanced materials.

Home textiles

Exhibitors will feature high-quality bed linens, towels, curtains, and much more, suitable for visitors sourcing for both residential and commercial applications. The diverse collections of home textiles will be enhanced by globally on-trend interior designs and in-demand, organic materials.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

AATCC Announces David Hinks as 2023 Textile Discovery Summit Keynote Speaker

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — August 28, 2023 — AATCC is pleased to announce that the Wilson College of Textiles Dean, David Hinks, will be headlining the 2023 Textile Discovery Summit, slated for September 12-14 in Greenville, S.C.

Background and Education

David Hinks was born and raised in Derby, England. Hinks worked for Courtaulds Research from 1984 to 1986 prior to attending the University of Leeds, where earned a B.S. and Ph.D. in Colour Chemistry in 1989 and 1993, respectively. In 1993, he moved to NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles as a Post Doctoral Research Associate and later Visiting Assistant Professor investigating the genotoxicity of dyes and pigments.

Professional Background

In 1996, David Hinks joined Milliken & Co. in Spartanburg, S.C., as an R&D Chemist. In Fall 1998, he returned to NC State as assistant professor in the College of Textiles. In 2003, Hinks was promoted to associate professor and became the program director for the then new Polymer and Color Chemistry Program. He was promoted to full professor in 2009 and was named the Cone Mills Distinguished Professor of Textile Chemistry in 2010. The same year Hinks was appointed director of Graduate Programs in the Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science and the Director of the University’s emerging Forensic Sciences Institute. In 2014, he was appointed as interim dean of the College of Textiles. In 2016, David Hinks was named dean of the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University.

Keynote Presentation

With the rapid pace of change in manufacturing technology, textile companies need to attract and develop a workforce ready to learn new skills and take on emerging challenges. The future success of the United States and Central American textile industry will depend on building a strong talent pipeline that can power innovation and adaptation. With the right strategies and talent, the textile industry can achieve sustainable growth and a bright future. The keynote presentation titled “Preparing for the Bright Future of US Textiles and the Critical Role of Life-Long Learning” will discuss strategies for success and challenges for growth in US and Central American textile manufacturing industry.

Textile Discovery Summit

AATCC’s Textile Discovery Summit is an annual event dedicated to providing a platform for the textile community to learn and interact together. This multi-day event features educational presentations from industry leaders and academic experts, interactive networking breakouts and receptions, a showroom for innovative products and processes, resources, and information on the latest in textiles, and more. The 2023 Textile Discovery Summit will take place at The Hyatt in Greenville, S.C., from September 12-14. The theme for this year’s conference is Supporting Sustainability Through Innovation.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: AATCC

Elkem Launches UV Hg And UV LED Curable Silicone Solutions For Sustainable Release Coatings

OSLO, Norway — August 28, 2023 — Elkem launches SILCOLEASE™ UV POLY 126 a new “Ready-To-Use” UV acrylate formulation especially designed for release coating of thermal labels that are self-wound without the use of a separate release liner. It guarantees the desired level of performance during the manufacturing, cutting, converting and printing stages, making it possible to develop sustainable thermal printed linerless labels and enable a circular economy.

Elkem is a supplier of silicon-based advanced material solutions shaping a better and more sustainable future. Elkem is committed to develop products needed for the green transition and minimizing the negative environmental and social impact of these products.

Elkem is offering silicone release coatings in the widest range of formats, including solvent-based, water-dilutable emulsion formulations, solventless thermal and UV. Users can choose the most appropriate system for their specific coating equipment and substrate while taking into account energy, sustainability, regulatory and safety requirements.

UV LED technology has emerged as a promising method for radiation curing silicone chemistries at specific wavelengths as an alternative to mercury vapor curing lamps. In addition to its effectiveness and flexibility compared to standard mercury lamps, UV LED provides the benefit of improved sustainability by consuming less energy and the elimination of greenhouse gas produced.

To support the Label Industry in its transition to a more sustainable footprint, and the conversion to UV LED curing, Elkem introduces new UV LED curable silicone solutions, SILCOLEASE™ UV LED Series.

SILCOLEASE UV LED systems utilizing Elkem photoinitiator demonstrate excellent cure and physical properties for more sustainable release coatings.

Elkem launches SILCOLEASE UV POLY 126 a new “Ready-To-Use” UV acrylate formulation especially designed for release coating of thermal labels that are self-wound without the use of a separate release liner. It guarantees the desired level of performance during the manufacturing, cutting, converting and printing stages, making it possible to develop sustainable thermal printed linerless labels and enable a circular economy.

The latest addition to the SILCOLEASE UV 100 acrylate series, SILCOLEASE UV POLY 125 fills the gap between release force that can be too light and release force that can be too tight. This formulation works well with a wide variety of permanent self-adhesives and removable adhesives. It successfully cures under Hg UV and specified UV LED parameters.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Elkem ASA

Sustainable Color & Additive Solutions For Textiles From Avient Highlighted At Yarn Expo Autumn 2023

SHANGHAI — August 28, 2023 — Today, Avient Corp. will showcase its extensive range of synthetic fiber colorants and functional additives for the textile industry during Yarn Expo Autumn 2023, Asia’s leading yarn and fiber trade fair in Shanghai, China.

“With the booming textile market in Asia, many customers are looking for sustainable and innovative polymer solutions that enable them to meet performance demands for textile applications,” said Say-Eng Lee, vice president and general manager, Color & Additives Asia at Avient. “As a global provider of specialized material solutions for textiles, Avient is dedicated to offering a wide range of technical solutions to enhance fiber performance and maximize production efficiency while meeting customers’ sustainability goals.”

Avient will exhibit a comprehensive portfolio of colorants and functional additives for enhancing performance and supporting sustainability for the textile industry including:

  • Renol™ Fiber Colorants are specific for synthetic fiber dope-dyeing (or spin dyeing), requiring no water and less energy than traditional bath dyeing methods while enhancing the properties of color fastness.
  • Cesa™ Fiber Additives for heat preservation can absorb more heat when exposed to solar rays. They can facilitate the design by meeting consumer demand for more comfortable and lightweight outdoor clothing, even in extremely cold weather.
  • Cesa™ Fiber Additives for cool feeling can provide fast heat conduction and moisture absorption, allowing the body to feel cooler and more comfortable. They also offer good spinnability for fiber manufacture at high temperatures.
  • Cesa™ Fiber Tracer Concentrates contain special taggants that can identify the origin of fibers in different applications, including garments, sportswear, and home textiles. This can help producers and brand owners recognize the source of the fiber, including specific features such as recycled content or biopolymer content.
  • Avient Sustainable Fiber Solutions include bluesign® verified colorants, recycled fiber solutions with Global Recycle Standard (GRS) certifications, and biodegradable fiber solutions with EN13432 certifications. Avient can also provide a wide range of functional additives such as ultraviolet (UV) stabilization, antistatic performance, flame retardancy, antimicrobial effectiveness, anti-yellowing performance, and more.

Avient will exhibit at Yarn Expo Autumn Aug 28 – 30, 2023, at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre, Hall 8.2, Stand A75, in Shanghai, China.

Posted: August 28, 2023

Source: Avient Corporation

Indocount Industries And Partech Seeds Forge Transformative Research Collaboration In Cotton Seed Development

MUMBAI — August 25, 2023 — Indocount Industries Ltd. and Partech Seeds Pvt. Ltd. have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pave the way for a groundbreaking collaboration in the research and development of innovative cotton seed varieties. This partnership aims to propel the cotton farming industry forward by creating non-genetically modified organism (non-GMO) seeds with enhanced yield, higher staple length, and improved crop productivity.

Indocount, a leading name in the textiles and home textiles sector, is taking a bold step towards agricultural innovation by joining hands with Partech Seeds Pvt. Ltd. first company in Asia that produces customized seeds and is also a  pioneer in cotton seed research. This alliance represents a pivotal moment in both companies’ journeys, as they seek to contribute to India’s agricultural growth and development.

Snehal Doshi, director of Partech Seeds Pvt. Ltd., expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: “This partnership represents a fusion of expertise and innovation that has the potential to redefine cotton seed development. Our commitment to non-GMO, high-yield, and superior quality cotton aligns perfectly with Indocount’s values, and together, we aim to catalyze positive change in the agricultural and textile sectors.”

Echoing the sentiment, K K Lalpuria, CEO and executive director of Indocount Industries Ltd., commented: “This collaboration underlines our dedication to sustainable practices and innovation. By partnering with Partech Seeds, we are harnessing the power of research to shape the future of cotton seed varieties, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers.”

Indocount Industries Ltd. and Partech Seeds Pvt. Ltd., with their experience and knowledge in the textile industry, bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Their long-standing presence and knowledge in the field uniquely position them to harness their collective strengths drive forward the transformative potential of this collaboration and elevate the nation’s position as a leader in agricultural innovation.

Posted: August 25, 2023

Source: Indocount Industries Ltd. / Partech Seeds Pvt. Ltd.

Mimaki and The Fashion Institute Of Technology Empower Students Through Digital Textile Printing

SUWANEE, Ga. — August 25, 2023 — The Fashion Institute of Technology’s (FIT) MFA in Fashion Design program recently concluded an exciting collaboration with Mimaki, a wide-format printer manufacturer, to introduce fifteen talented students to the immense potential of digital textile printing. This partnership, known as the 2023 Mimaki Student Contest, enabled participants to delve into the realm of custom prints and explore new horizons in fashion design.

FIT’s MFA in Fashion Design program is renowned for providing students with a conducive environment to experiment and create under the guidance of experienced and dynamic faculty. The curriculum encompasses crucial aspects such as brand identity, legal considerations, and global supply chain insights, empowering students to focus their designs, develop prototypes, and carve their unique market niche.

With the support of Mimaki, this year’s students enjoyed additional resources and encouragement through hands-on digital printing experiences. Victoria Nelson Harris, the senior textile segment specialist at Mimaki, expressed her excitement for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership drives the demand for digital textile printing in the apparel industry and aligns with our commitment to minimizing environmental impact for a better future.”

In the Mimaki Contest, every contestant was tasked with designing one custom printed garment. With an array of seven fabric choices, courtesy of Mimaki, students harnessed the power of Mimaki’s cutting-edge direct-to-fabric and dye sublimation printing technologies. Alongside this creative adventure, designers enjoyed expert mentoring on mastering digital print file management, all while immersing themselves in invaluable industry experience throughout the entire collaborative endeavor.

In an impressive showcase of talent, the 2023 Mimaki Student Contest collections were assessed across design merit, sample quality, market appeal, creativity, and originality. Ashleen Tuteja emerged as the winning designer, securing an impressive reward: up to $1000 worth of fabric and a generous allowance of up to 50 yards of complimentary printing services for her senior thesis collection, slated for debut in spring 2024.

Bryan Barrientos and Yoon Seo Lee claimed the runner-up positions, earning themselves a well-deserved prize of 10 yards of fabric and printing services each for their anticipated spring 2024 thesis collections.

The 2022 senior designer winners, Valeria Watson and Lilach Porges, will showcase their collections during New York Fashion Week this September. Notably, Valeria had recently achieved recognition, securing the 2023 Bob Fisch Graduate Student Awards for Entrepreneurial Excellence and receiving a $25,000 prize.

The partnership between Mimaki and FIT exemplifies the importance of vendors in the wide-format space supporting higher education institutions, especially those dedicated to the fashion industry. This collaboration fuels the demand for digital printing solutions, enabling designers to print locally, in any quantity, and with rapid turnaround times. This approach significantly reduces waste and streamlines production processes.

Posted: August 25, 2023

Source: Mimaki US

Seshadri Ramkumar To Receive The 2023 AATCC Chapin Award

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — August 25, 2023 — In recognition of his outstanding service to the Association, AATCC has named Seshadri Ramkumar as recipient of the Harold C. Chapin Award.

AATCC Involvement

Ramkumar has been a member of the Association since 1999. He was a strong proponent for expanding AATCC into the area of nonwovens and technical textiles. He supported the founding of the Materials Interest Group and served as an officer in this Interest Group for 11 years.

Ramkumar was involved in the development and promotion of nonwoven and technical textile conferences and symposia, nationally and internationally. He presented webinars and tutorials, chaired conference committees, and served as a moderator or speaker at AATCC conferences, symposia, and events. He especially encouraged AATCC’s involvement in conferences in India and co-organized major conferences, promoting AATCC widely to all who attended. His tenacious promotion of the Association strengthened AATCC’s significance throughout the Indian textile community.

Ramkumar has authored or co-authored numerous articles and research papers in AATCC Review and AATCC Journal of Research. He serves as a member of the Publications Committee. He served for several years as an associate editor for the AATCC Journal of Research and strives to elevate its status as a peer-reviewed journal. He also promotes AATCC events in his newsletter, “TexSnips,” which goes to over 2,000 people around the world.

Accomplishments

Ramkumar has three published patents and 20 invention disclosures. He has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed papers and has co-edited a book and book chapters. In 2022, he was recognized as a Fellow of the Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) in the United States, and in 2020, received the Silver Medal from the Society of Dyers and Colourists (United Kingdom). He is also a Fellow of The Textile Institute (United Kingdom) and an Honorary Fellow in the Textile Association (India).

Education and Professional

Ramkumar earned his Ph.D. in Textile Materials from the University of Leeds, United Kingdom, in 1998; a Master of Technology in Textile Materials Science, First Rank in the Discipline from Anna University, India, in 1994; and a Bachelor of Technology in Textile Materials Science, Graduating with Distinction from Anna University, India, in 1992.

He joined Texas Tech University as a Research Associate in January 1999. He became an Assistant Professor in Environmental Toxicology at The Institute of Environmental and Human Health (TIEHH) at Texas Tech in 2005 and was a full professor in Environmental Toxicology/TIEHH by 2013.

Ramkumar and his laboratory developed a non-particulate dry sorbent nonwoven wipe for use in chemical compatibility and chemical warfare agent retention. The Department of Homeland Security contracted with a national laboratory to evaluate this product against 30 or more currently available products. The results of the evaluation concluded that the dry wipe technology developed in Ramkumar’s laboratory was the best performing wipe. Ramkumar and his laboratory’s development of FiberTect wipe technology is recognized as one of the first technology commercialization activities at Texas Tech University.

Chapin Award

The Chapin Award was established in 1958 in honor of Harold C. Chapin, professor of chemistry at Lowell Textile School, who served as national secretary of AATCC for nearly 25 years. It is awarded to those who portray outstanding service to AATCC, enabling the Association to attain the objects for which it was founded. The Association will present the Chapin Scroll to Dr. Seshadri Ramkumar during the AATCC Textile Discovery Summit Awards Luncheon that will take place in Greenville, SC, USA on September 14, 2023.

Posted: August 25, 2023

Source: AATCC

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