ALLIED Feather + Down’s ExpeDRY Insulation Now Powers Performance And Sustainability For Montane

MONTEBELLO, Calif.  — November 26, 2024 — ALLIED Feather + Down (AF+D) —global suppliers of high performance, ethically sourced and recycled down — will be supplying their high performance ExpeDRY ultra dry down to Montane for their fall 2025 down apparel line.

ExpeDRY represents the evolution of performance down for use in extreme situations, replacing chemical treatments with gold particles permanently bonded to down clusters. ExpeDRY keeps water vapor from condensing into droplets, providing better real-world performance than all other treatments. The ExpeDRY filled products will also dry significantly faster in-home laundry making care easier and utilizing much less energy through the life of the products.

Montane — Photo Alex Buis

Montane will offer ExpeDRY in 100% of their down jackets, being the first to adopt the technology over all down jackets.

“ALLIED introduced the world’s first water resistant down back in 2015, and we’ve learned a lot since then,” said Matthew Betcher, Creative director with ALLIED. “Traditional WR down works great when in direct contact with water, but that is not what’s happening inside down insulation chambers. Water vapor is the biggest issue and ExpeDRY helps keep this vapor from condensing, allowing it to evaporate though the shell more effectively, keeping the down drier for longer, and helping it to dry out faster if it does get wet.

“It is also equally important that even in performance technologies, we continue to strive to reduce our environmental impact,” added Betcher. “So, removing another unnecessary chemical from our supply chain will help significantly with that. It’s only a matter of time before we all realize that the C0 chemicals we are using might not be so great for the planet after all.”

“At Montane, we are really excited to introduce such a new and disruptive technology from our long-term partners Allied Feather & Down,” said Liam Steinbeck, Materials manager with Montane. “ExpeDRY is fully aligned with our philosophy as a brand to be one of the first to market with the latest most innovative technologies, bringing unparalleled performance and comfort in the most demanding environments.”

Poised to render current, chemical-intensive treatments obsolete, ExpeDRY down insulation is cleaner and better performing than all current water-resistant down technologies. Created in partnership with FUZE Technologies and relying on gold particles permanently bonded to down plumes, ExpeDRY is permanent and since it is completely chemical free, there are no PFAS or other concerns. In all real-world simulations, ExpeDRY is far better at keeping insulated jackets dry and warm in any environment, and at a significantly lower impact than the WR treatment alternatives.

For more information on ExpeDRY and ALLIED Feather + Down, please visit us at ISPO in booth A1.112.

Posted: November 26, 2024

Source: ALLIED Feather + Down

Connecting Ideas: TRSA’s 7th Annual Summit Draws Record Attendance And Inspiring Discussions

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — November 26, 2024 — TRSA hosted its 7th Annual Marketing, Sales & Service Summit on November 12 in Atlanta. The event, which had its largest attendance ever with more than 75 participants, was held in conjunction with TRSA’s 13th Annual Healthcare Conference, which took place November 13-14 at the same site, the Westin in Buckhead.

L to R) Jason Risley, senior editor/director of content management at TRSA; Dana Craig, director of project management,  Alsco Uniforms,: Eric Smith, director of sales & marketing, Alliant Systems

The Summit began with a keynote address titled “Unleashing Innovation: The AI Effect” by Tom Edwards, Managing Director of Consulting at Ernst & Young LLP. He highlighted key applications of AI in the linen, uniform, and facility services industry, such as maintenance automation and customer-service enhancements. Edwards emphasized the importance of understanding AI in the future workplace, stating, “AI will not replace a person’s job, but a person who knows how to use AI will.” He also mentioned exciting advancements in AI, including the ability to generate images and videos from text.

The event featured a mix of educational content. Customer service topics included a presentation by Jon Locke, the director of operations at Prudential Overall Supply, titled “The Customer-Client Relationship: Balancing Satisfaction” and a customer panel featuring Kevin Hensley, director of sourcing at Sonic Automotive; and Paula Owens, director of purchasing, distribution and sustainability at Ted’s Montana Grill. Ray Shabandarian, director of service consulting at Performance Matters served as moderator allowing attendees to hear from the customer’s perspectives on how they define a successful relationship with their service providers.

The following presentations rounded out the offerings at the Summit:

  • The Value of SEO, Steve Cooker, vice president of client services, Infinite Laundry/LinenMaster
  • Renewals and Extensions: Strategies & Best Practices, Ray Shabandarian, director of service consulting, Performance Matters
  • Unlocking the Power of AI in Your Role, Eric Smith, director of sales & marketing, Alliant Systems
  • Telling is not Selling: The Power of Questions, Ed Kwasnick, director of business development, ARCO/Murray

Facilitated roundtable discussions continue to be one of the Summit’s most requested sessions. Attendees chose from one of five topics and break into groups to delve deep into conversations. Laura Woodall with Simple, hoped that next year the time should be expanded. “My table had some very good conversations and idea sharing, we could have kept going” she added.

The Summit closed with a panel presentation on podcasts featuring industry podcast professionals Dana Craig, director of project management at Alsco Uniforms; Jason Risley, senior editor/director of content management at TRSA; and Smith, who’d presented earlier on AI issues. Craig hosts the “It Pays to Keep Clean” podcast, Risley runs the “Linen, Uniform & Facility Services Podcast – Interviews & Insights by TRSA” and Smith oversees the “LaundryTalks” podcast. The discussion was moderated by Susie Jackson, senior director of marketing communications at TRSA. Following the panel discussion and questions from the audience, TRSA President & CEO Joseph Ricci sat down with Zach Ostendorf from Clean & Simple Marketing for a live presentation of “The Wash,” where Ostendorf asked Ricci several questions while the duo ate progressively spicier hot wings.

During networking breaks throughout the day, several companies presented their top marketing ideas from the past year in a competition dubbed “The Best of the Best.” At the conclusion of the Summit, attendees voted on the winner of the contest. The winner was Simple, a new division of NOVO, which introduced their brand through a LinkedIn ad campaign featuring the company’s mascot Karl the Fish.

A joint networking reception with Healthcare Conference attendees followed the Summit. Casey Lott, director of marketing at Kannegiesser ETECH, and a seasoned Summit attendee summed up his experience, “I enjoyed all of the speakers and the different perspectives that brought to the topics and conversations. It really is a great opportunity to know how our customers’ customers view the ecosystem of the laundry industry.” First-time attendee Brian Davidson, national sales manager, Alsco Inc., added that the summit was, “extremely beneficial to say current, see other industry partners and hear about new developments such as AI.”

Next year’s Summit will be held on November 18, 2025 in Boston, MA. For more information about TRSA and future events, please visit www.trsa.org.

Posted: November 26, 2024

Source: TRSA

INDA: President Biden Announces Limited Trade Actions on Fine-Denier Polyester Staple Fiber in Section 201 Safeguard Case

WASHINGTON — November 26, 2024 — Last week, the White House announced that President Joe Biden would not implement a tariff rate quota on imports of fine-denier polyester staple fiber (PSF) in response to a section 201 safeguard case filed by U.S.-based fiber producers.

The president announced an import quota only on imports of fine-denier PSF under the temporary importation under bond (TIB) program, which is predominately used in woven textiles and apparel and is not expected to impact nonwovens.

President Biden opted not to implement a tariff rate quote or other measures that were recommended by the U.S. International Trade Commission citing that other industries, including nonwoven manufacturers, would be negatively impacted by such actions, President Biden’s proclamation stated that:

“While the USITC Commissioners recommended that I impose a tariff-rate quota on fine denier PSF imports, I have determined not to do so…[t]herefore, I have decided to tailor this safeguard remedy to TIB entries of fine denier PSF. Furthermore, I have determined not to impose a tariff-rate quota on imports of fine denier PSF in the interest of balancing the competing interests of domestic fine denier PSF manufacturers and the impact of the safeguard remedy on downstream United States producers, including manufacturers of textiles, defense products, and consumer products, that rely on fine denier PSF.”

This decision comes after several U.S.-based nonwovens producers commented to the White House Trade Policy Staff Committee and the USITC that the nonwovens industry would be harmed by actions that would raise the costs of fine-denier PSF. INDA submitted comments outlining the concerns of many nonwovens producers. Government affairs director Wes Fisher testified before the Trade Policy Staff Committee at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative hearing on September 30th.

Posted: November 26, 2024

Source: INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

 

JEC World 2025: Celebrating 60 Years Of Innovation Under The Motto “Pushing The Limits”

PARIS — November 26, 2024 — In less than four months, JEC World will open its doors to its new session, a celebration session. Well known worldwide as the leading trade exhibition for composite materials and their applications, this 60th session promises to be the only hub for business, inspiration and innovation in our industry. March 4-6, Paris will welcome the whole composites industry for an exceptional edition.

Marking its 60th edition, JEC World 2025 is set to once again assert its position as the world’s leading event for the composites industry. Under the unifying theme “Pushing the Limits,” the event will showcase the extraordinary versatility and innovation of composite materials that continue to redefine light weighting, performance, design possibilities and offer more sustainable solutions for an increasing number of applications.

Taking place from 4 to 6 March at the Paris Nord Villepinte, JEC World 2025 is more than an event — it is the epicentre of innovation, collaboration, and transformation in the global composites sector and for many end-user industries. With the participation of more than 1,350 exhibitors from major corporations to startups, and an expected record attendance of 45,000 professionals, all coming from more than 100 countries,  this landmark edition of the annual “Festival of composites” will highlight composites as a cornerstone of the future, addressing the most critical challenges across industries.

The ultimate stage for Composites Innovation

JEC World has been synonymous with showcasing cutting-edge advancements in composites for six decades. The event’s inspiring show floor and engaging conference program will reveal how composites help many end-user industries to address their current challenges. To name a few: the aeronautics industry developing more efficient planes, the space industry expansion and new explorations, the on- and off-shore development of the wind energy industry, the transportation and mobility industries drastically reducing emissions via electrification, the deployment of the hydrogen ecosystem, the shipbuilding industry looking for long lasting, corrosion-free and lighter materials to decarbonate maritime transportation, even the sporting goods industry providing more performing equipment while addressing sustainability challenges thanks to composites, etc… No other event offers such a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge solutions to meet the requirements of multiple sectors.

Championing sustainability and circularity

JEC World also leads the change towards a more sustainable future. This year’s show will highlight more than 600 new products and innovations—many designed to advance the 9 R’s of circularity (Refuse, Rethink, Reduce, Re-use, Repair, Refurbish, Remanufacture, Repurpose, Recycle). From reducing energy and material consumption to using bio-sourced materials including natural fibres, and recycling both fibres and matrices, the composites industry’s sustainability and Life Cycle Assessment roadmaps are central to the event’s agenda.

A launchpad for startups and disruptive technology

JEC World 2025 will shine a spotlight on the brightest minds in materials science, deeptech and engineering through its renowned Startup Booster competition. The program will feature 20 finalists, attracting major corporations and venture capitalists to discover the next generation of innovators. With high-profile jury members from Mercedes-Benz, Owens Corning, Swancor, and ExxonMobil, the competition underscores the event’s pivotal and unique role in fostering entrepreneurship.

Additive manufacturing and digital transformation on display

Pioneering additive manufacturing and especially large-format 3D printing technologies will take central stage, with live demonstrations illustrating their applications in prototyping, mold-making, and design optimization. As well, advanced manufacturing technologies such as Preforming, 3D Weaving, Tailored and/or Automated Fiber-, Tapes-, Patches- Placement are all presented, involving the associated software development. JEC World will celebrate the integration of artificial intelligence and digital tools, showing how the industry’s third pillar — Digitalization — is transforming composites production.

An unmissable event

The enthusiasm for JEC World 2025 is already evident: industry giants such as 3M, Daher, Hexcel, Mitsubishi, Owens Corning, SGL Technologies, Syensqo, Teijin Carbon, and Toray have confirmed their presence. Notably, 99 new exhibitors, including Biesterfeld, Reichenbacher, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, are joining the global showcase for the first time, proving the dynamism of the industry.

Countdown to JEC World 2025

The road to the event begins with an online sneak preview – the JEC World Premiere – on January 13th, 2025, unveiling the highlights of the upcoming show, introducing the Startup Booster finalists, and announcing the winners of the prestigious JEC Composites Innovation Awards.

With 60 years of history and an unmatched focus on innovation, JEC World 2025 is the must-attend event for professionals and thought leaders looking to stay ahead in the composites sector and in the application industries.

Posted: November 26, 2024

Source: JEC

Reju And Nouvelles Fibres Textiles Collaborate On Textile Waste Circular Ecosystem In France

PARIS — November 25, 2024 — Reju™, the progressive textile-to-textile regeneration company, and Nouvelles Fibres Textiles (NFT), a France-based company specializing in the recovery of end-of-life textiles, today announced a collaboration on the sourcing and recycling of textile waste to support the building of a circular ecosystem in France. NFT will supply secondary raw materials derived from used or unused waste textiles to Reju for recycling and production of regenerated Reju Polyester™.

Reju and NFT will collaborate to expand the collection and processing infrastructure for apparel and textile wastes from post-consumer and post-industrial sources. The collaboration will also allow for an open supply chain and guarantee 100 percent traceability of recycled materials.

Reju is developing the infrastructure to take textile waste and regenerate it at scale, starting with polyester. The end product — Reju Polyester™ — is expected to have a 50 percent lower carbon footprint than virgin polyester and can be regenerated infinitely. Reju’s first demonstration plant — Regeneration Hub Zero — is now operational in Frankfurt, Germany, and will come on line to enable the production of Reju PET in 2025.

Materials supplied by NFT will be processed at Reju’s new Regeneration Hub Zero in Frankfurt, Germany and the future Reju Regeneration Hubs in Europe.

NFT and its partners opened a unique semi-industrial site and research center for textile recycling in November 2023. The pilot line is the first to combine Pellenc ST’s automated sorting technologies with Andritz’ tearing lines to process high volumes of post-industrial and post-consumer textile waste, eliminate hard points, and turn them into industrial grade fiber and raw material feedstock for new recycling technologies like Reju. NFT also provides secondary raw materials to various industries including nonwovens, insulation, composites, plastics, and other textiles.

Patrik Frisk, CEO of Reju, said: “Reju and Nouvelles Fibres Textiles are using innovation and collaboration to accelerate the transition to a circular textile ecosystem. This valuable partnership demonstrates our collective commitment to addressing the problem of textile waste and developing new ways to use the resources we have within local supply chains.

With the collection of textile waste mandatory in the European Union starting in 2025*, it is imperative we have scalable systems and partnerships to process what is collected and keep it from landfills or incineration. Together, Reju and NFT are building the technology and infrastructure to regenerate and reuse materials across industries and change the way we use our resources.”

Eric Boël and Etienne Wiroth, co-directors of Nouvelles Fibres Textiles, noted: “ After six years of research and collaborative work, Nouvelles Fibres Textiles is now ready to collaborate with professionals who need to recycle their textiles. We have an innovative turnkey solution that transforms heterogeneous end-of-life textile streams into high-quality homogeneous raw materials while ensuring their traceability. Our partnership with Reju paves the way for the permindustry: a circular, more local, less carbon-intensive, and more collaborative industry — essentially, an industry that does good!”

*Read more about the European Union’s Waste Framework Directive (WFD) here.

Posted: November 26, 2024

Source: Reju

Milliken & Company Announces Investment In Tidal Vision

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — November 25, 2024 — Global diversified manufacturer Milliken & Company today announced its investment and partnership with Tidal Vision, a global biomolecular technologies company unlocking the power of chitosan to develop scalable solutions for critical industries. This strategic partnership will accelerate the introduction of biodegradable chemistries across the markets that Milliken serves and is the latest in a series of investments made as part of Milliken’s ventures program.

“At Milliken, we invest with a long-term perspective, prioritizing partnerships that will drive meaningful growth,” said Halsey Cook, president and CEO at Milliken. “Our approach is grounded in thorough research, strategic alignment with our core values, and a commitment to creating lasting value for our customers.”

Milliken’s investment will increase the availability of reliable, responsibly sourced materials with biodegradable properties in multiple applications. This is made possible by Tidal Vision’s proprietary technologies that transform chitosan, a powerful and biodegradable compound, into high-performance chemistries.

“We recognize the growing demand for responsible solutions that meet the highest standards of performance — and creating a path to offering biodegradable technologies represents an important step in that direction,” said Cindy Boiter, executive vice president and president of Milliken’s Chemical Business. “Our partnership with Tidal Vision is a natural fit, as their innovative approach to sustainable materials aligns with our commitments to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.”

Headquartered in Bellingham, Wash., with more than 200 employees and facilities in five states, Tidal Vision leverages advanced manufacturing technologies and partners with industry leaders like Milliken to offer new and powerful chemistries at scale. Tidal Vision is built on the belief that chitosan solutions have the unique potential to help humanity on an industrial scale.

“Tidal Vision is thrilled to partner with Milliken, combining our complementary strengths to expand the use of chitosan-based chemistries into new applications on a global scale,” said Craig Kasberg, CEO of Tidal Vision. “By replacing non-biodegradable alternatives at scale, we’re driving meaningful environmental impact. Milliken’s commitment to sustainability and culture of innovation, paired with their market leadership, creates an ideal platform to accelerate the adoption of Tidal Vision’s technologies.”

Posted: November 25, 2024

Source: Milliken & Company

Bally Ribbon Mills Highlights Nylon Webbing Product Line for Straps, Tapes, and Belts

BALLY, Pa. — November 25, 2024 — Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM), an industry supplier of the design, development, and manufacture of highly specialized engineered woven fabrics, highlights its versatile nylon webbing product line for straps, tapes, and belts. Renowned for its exceptional strength, durability, and adaptability, this nylon webbing is ideal for a wide range of applications across various industries. BRM offers several nylon webbing options, including shoulder straps, harness webbing, chin straps, helmet suspension, binding tapes, lap belts, and shock-absorbing webbing.

BRM’s nylon webbing exhibits exceptional properties, making it a preferred choice for demanding environments. With outstanding toughness and the ability to elongate under load, this webbing excels in energy absorption, making it particularly suitable for safety harnesses and load-bearing straps. The hygroscopic nature of the material allows it to manage moisture effectively while maintaining structural integrity and performance.

Manufactured through advanced processes, BRM’s nylon webbing features a unique chemical structure that imparts superior flexibility and resilience. This ensures the webbing can withstand significant stress and strain without compromising its shape or functionality, even after repeated use.

The nylon webbing’s exceptional abrasion resistance guarantees longevity, making it a cost-effective solution for applications requiring durability. Its quick-drying properties and resistance to insects and microbes further enhance its suitability for outdoor and rugged settings.

The technical specifications of the nylon webbing underscore its superior quality. With a tenacity ranging from 4.0 to 7.2 g/denier and elongation at break between 17 percent and 45 percent, the product provides an optimal balance of strength and flexibility. Its low shrinkage rate and high melting point further contribute to its reliability in challenging conditions.

Posted: November 25, 2024

Source: Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM)

Luxury Outdoor Brand Harbour Debuts New Signature Textiles

LOS ANGELES — November 25, 2024 — Harbour, the premier luxury outdoor lifestyle brand, is reimagining outdoor luxury with the introduction of Harbour Signature Textiles.

Exclusively developed in collaboration with textile manufacturer Sunbrella, Harbour’s new luxury outdoor fabric program introduces a market-leading selection of basketweaves, plush velvets, and chenilles, available in over 30 hues.

Harbour Signature Textiles – Hayman Collection with Marley Snow

Designed to complement the wide range of Harbour’s offerings, each fabric is crafted in North America and engineered for outdoor durability while providing an elevated level of comfort and sophistication.

The range of exclusive signature textiles includes:

  • Altona — Harbour’s exclusive performance velvet, featuring a low pile and subtle striations, brings softness and an indoor feel to outdoor spaces. Available in Dew, Sand, Slate, Dove, Snow, and Mink.
  • Pebble — A performance bouclé fabric with knotted yarns forming in a random, textured pile, offering an inviting hand feel ideal for upholstery and loose cushions. Available in Cloud, Smoke, Fog, Sand, White, and Charcoal.
  • Monterey — A linen-inspired fabric with a wider weave that offers a luxurious hand feel and refined appearance. Perfect for upholstery and loose cushions, this fabric is available in Sand, Charcoal, Chalk, and Silver.
  • Marley — A high-pile performance chenille featuring thick yarns that create a velvety-soft, plush feel. Ideal for upholstery and loose cushions, this fabric is available in Boulder, Chinchilla, Mink, Parchment, and Snow.
  • Stirling — Inspired by natural linens, this fabric features random striations for a textured, organic look. Available in Powder, Sand, Dollar, Shadow, Mosquito, Fog, Sage, Linen, Flint, Smoke, and Salt.
  • Bateau — A striped fabric range with a wide weave, perfect for accents or full cushions featuring thin stripes interspersed with intermittent wider stripes. This fabric is available in Classic, Cocoon, and Teak.

Harrison Condos, Harbour’s founder and CEO, explained: “It’s been a dream of ours to bring the sophistication of indoor design to outdoor living — and with the launch of Harbour Signature Textiles, we’re making that dream a reality. This is the next evolution of Harbour, offering a market-leading range of performance fabrics in stunning tones that truly elevate outdoor comfort and style, blending elegance with resilience in a way that’s never been done before.”

Posted: November 25, 2024

Source: Harbour

SGS Unveils Trio Of Services To Tackle CSRD Compliance And ESG Disclosure  

GENEVA, Switzerland — November 25, 2024 — SGS has proudly unveiled three essential services to support Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) compliance and advance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting and disclosures. These services — CSRD Pre-Assurance, ESG Disclosures & Sustainability Report Assurance, and ESG KPI Verification & Assurance — form a comprehensive suite that empowers organizations to meet evolving standards with confidence and precision.

Leveraging over two decades of disclosure and sustainability report assurance provision, SGS presents the services that complement a complete set of CSRD and ESG solutions under its new IMPACT NOW for sustainability suite.

  1. CSRD Pre-Assurance

Accuracy and consistency are vital to CSRD compliance. SGS’s CSRD Pre-Assurance caters to organizations wishing to identify gaps and weaknesses and strengthen their reporting approach through a confidential “dry run”. This approach minimizes the risk of receiving a qualified assurance opinion when undergoing future public assurance.

The service includes:

  • A gap analysis of processes and disclosures against European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) requirements;
  • Constructive feedback on aligning data points, ESG targets and reporting processes;
  • A comprehensive review of the reporting structure; and
  • A detailed pre-assurance report.

Benefits:

  • Accurately assess before seeking full assurance;
  • Confirm strengths and address weaknesses in your ESG approach;
  • Minimize the risk of a qualified assurance statement; and
  • Prepare for a confident and efficient assurance process.
  1. ESG Disclosures & Sustainability Report Assurance

This full-service solution provides independent verification, validation and assurance for organizations aiming to disclose their ESG information publicly. It ensures that ESG data is accurate and consistently aligned with reporting and assurance standards.

Benefits:

  • Comply with regulatory standards;
  • Ensure ESG data integrity and transparency;
  • Mitigate legal risks and avoid greenwashing;
  • Inspire peers and foster ESG innovation; and
  • Strengthen internal reporting frameworks.
  1. ESG KPI Verification & Assurance

SGS’s ESG KPI Verification & Assurance service independently validates the metrics and targets in ESG disclosures. This service bolsters investor and stakeholder confidence, supporting due diligence, risk assessment and sustainable finance decisions.

Benefits:

  • Reduce borrowing costs through sustainable finance transactions;
  • Greater preparation for an initial public offering (IPO);
  • Validate your ESG claims and assess supplier performance; and
  • Facilitate due diligence and reveal potential compliance issues.

Géraldine Picaud, CEO of SGS, emphasized the importance of the IMPACT NOW services in driving sustainable business practices: “With the launch of our IMPACT NOW suite, we are providing organizations with innovative solutions to navigate CSRD compliance and enhance ESG reporting. This trio of services offers the clarity and confidence businesses need to address sustainability challenges, meet regulatory expectations and contribute positively to a more sustainable future.”

As sustainability is a complex and rapidly evolving area, SGS hears organizations’ concerns on a daily basis. Its experts worldwide, equipped with 30-plus years of sustainability leadership, are ready to move you from complexity to clarity, and from advice to transparent and meaningful action.

IMPACT NOW is more than just a concept. It’s SGS’s commitment to addressing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution and waste. Embedding sustainability into every action and service it provides, SGS aims to contribute positively to society and achieve a nature-positive and pollution-free world.

Discover the three IMPACT NOW on ESG Assurance services or contact SGS to discuss your sustainability mission.

Posted: November 25, 2024

Source: SGS

Clariant : The Secret To A Better Mattress? High-Performance Polymers

MUTTENZ, Switzerland — November 25, 2024 — As a manufacturer in industries like mattresses, furniture, automotive interiors, textiles or hygiene, you know that creating high-quality products requires more than just the right base materials.

A critical element behind the durability, comfort, and sustainability of these products is fabric reinforcement and lamination using high-performance polymers. These advanced materials ensure the longevity and efficiency of textile products, offering unmatched bonding capabilities, especially in fabric applications, along with significant sustainability benefits.

Excellent thermal stability and a healthier sleep with low odor & low VOC advantage of Licocene™ polymers

Clariant’s Licocene polymers, particularly the Licocene PP 1602, PP 2402, PP 2502 PP 2602, and PP 3602, have redefined the standards in hot melt polymers used in mattress production. Unlike traditional EVA-based adhesives, these polypropylene-based materials offer superior bond strength and thermal stability without the need for additional additives like tackifiers or plasticizers. This leads to a reduction in VOC emissions and negligible odor, both during manufacturing and in the final product, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable sleeping environment for consumers.

Cost-efficient production through reduced material use

One of the standout features of Licocene polymers is their ability to reduce material and energy consumption during the application process. These polymers allow for more precise placement, meaning manufacturers can use less adhesive while maintaining strong bonds, leading to significant cost savings. Additionally, the low viscosity of these adhesives facilitates the use of smaller nozzles, which further enhances productivity by reducing downtime for maintenance and allowing for faster line speeds.

Full-service solutions for mattresses

Clariant’s Licocene polymers offer a comprehensive solution for manufacturers throughout the entire production process. From the initial product development phase to the final assembly, these polymers ensure superior comfort and durability while meeting the increasingly strict environmental standards of today’s market. As engineered solutions, Licocene polymers are designed to improve every facet of mattress manufacturing, providing manufacturers with the tools they need to create high-quality, sustainable products that meet consumer demands and regulatory requirements.

How Clariant’s innovations enhance mattress quality and durability:

Mattress ticking

The ticking is the first line of defence against wear and tear. Clariant’s Licocene PP 2602 or PP 3602 polymers are used to coat and laminate the woven ticking fabrics, locking the fibers in place to prevent seam slippage and fraying over time. This layer also allows for custom enhancements like water resistance, antimicrobial properties, and more.

Pocket spring

Premium innerspring mattresses rely on pocket coils for customized support. Clariant’s Licocene PP 2402 and PP 2502 hot melt polymers are exceptional at fusing the fabric pockets to create the pocket spring structure. These polymers offer remarkable cohesive strength while maintaining low viscosity, allowing them to thoroughly permeate all non-woven layers. The result is a durable, consistent bond that enhances the overall quality of the mattress. This innovative bonding solution ensures that the pocket coil system maintains its integrity, contributing to the mattress’s long-term performance and comfort.

Foam bonding

For mattresses featuring foam comfort layers or cores, Clariant’s new Licocene polymers demonstrate superior adhesion for bonding different foam components together. This ensures the mattress maintains its structural integrity over years of use. Additionally, these Licocene polymers contribute to reduced noise levels in the finished mattress, enhancing the overall sleep experience by minimizing disturbances from movement.

Anti-slip protection

The last thing you want is your mattress sliding around. Licocene PP 1602 provides excellent anti-slip properties without leaving any sticky residue, keeping your mattress securely in place on smooth surfaces.

Renewable-based solutions and enhanced recycling capabilities

The Licocene Terra range is made from renewable instead of fossil-based raw materials via biomass balance certification. Some Licocene solutions also enable mono-material construction for easier recycling at end of life.

In addition to offering renewable-based solutions, selected products within Clariant’s Licocene portfolio are OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certified. This certification ensures that these hot melt adhesives meet stringent environmental and safety standards, making them an ideal choice for manufacturers focused on more sustainable textile production. By using these certified adhesives, mattress and textile manufacturers can confidently create products that align with eco-friendly practices and meet the growing consumer demand for more sustainable products.

Meeting the needs of a modern industry

With the rising demand for more eco-friendly and efficient manufacturing processes, Clariant’s Licocene polymers offer a forward-thinking solution. Whether it’s for mattress ticking, pocket spring assembly, foam bonding, or anti-slip, these polymers provide the necessary performance enhancements while aligning with the industry’s sustainability goals to not only improve the quality of their products, but also reduce the impact on the environment.

The next time you invest in a new mattress, you can rest easy knowing Clariant’s advanced polymer solutions are hard at work behind the scenes, enhancing durability, and comfort for years of great sleep.

Posted: November 25, 2024

Source: Clariant

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