Through its involvement in the VIBES project, Flipts & Dobbels has contributed to the VIBES collaboration’s latest breakthrough: the successful manufacture of a carbon and natural fibre panel made with a bisphenol-free epoxy resin using resin infusion techniques. This achievement marks an important milestone in the development of sustainable, high performance composite materials.

Flipts & Dobbels has been supporting the VIBES project for over four years, working with industry innovators to advance the development of bio-based composites by leveraging recyclable epoxy resins, lignin-based carbon fibres and natural flax reinforcements. These materials align with the VIBES goal of reducing environmental impact whilst maintaining high performance standards.

As part of the VIBES collaboration, manufacturing specialists Juno Composites explored key innovations, including the impact of moisture content in natural flax textiles on mechanical performance. This research, which paralleled some of the Alliance European Scientific Council ’s own work on moisture sensitivity, emphasizes the need for relying on the technical know-how of flax reinforcements manufacturers.

“The VIBES project has demonstrated that to fully realize the potential of flax fibers in performance composite applications, all aspects of the entire flax fiber production process, from seed selection to textile manufacturing, should be considered. With more than a hundred years’ experience of working with flax, our company is proud to support the continuous improvements delivered by the VIBES project.” said Caroline Flippts, Flipts & Dobbels.

The Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting its members like Flipts & Dobbels, as they lead the way in developing greener solutions.

Posted: October 22, 2024

Source: Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp

The portal is particularly effective in supporting the induction of new specialists. Whereas in the past, training was provided and documentation handed over during commissioning, today users can learn independently of time and place and refresh their knowledge at any time. The content is definitely also suitable for training technical specialists. This makes the digital approach consistent and efficient.

The technical personnel at Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Solutions provide the content for the Digital Academy. Particular emphasis is placed on practical relevance. “Our customers define who should learn what, so that the training packages are targeted and customized,” explains Tilmann Seidel, Vice President Customer Services. The BCF module is currently available worldwide in English, Spanish and Turkish.

The portal is to be made available for all processes of the Oerlikon Business Unit Manmade Fibers Solutions in the future. The digital academy for the POY process is already under development.

Digital learning is the future

The online training center, which is located on the e-commerce platform myOerlikon.com, contains a collection of e-learning modules on the topics of operation, maintenance and repair, currently for the Oerlikon Neumag BCF machines S+ and S8. Operating personnel as well as process engineers and technicians as well as quality managers are trained.

A high staff turnover rate among yarn manufacturers, which has increased again since the Covid-19 pandemic, underscores the need for new training concepts that do not require a physical trainer and are accessible 24/7. This is because in-person training requires a considerable logistical effort, incurs travel costs and disrupts operations more severely than individually scheduled online training. This is where the Digital Academy offers a distinct advantage: compact, role-based learning units that can be accessed via mobile and stationary end devices make the content quickly applicable for the user. A success check helps to internalize the content and consolidate what has been learned. Feedback functions can quickly clarify comprehension questions at any time. Access to the Digital Academy is location- or company-specific.

Posted: October 22, 2024

Source: Oerlikon Polymer Processing Solutions Division / Oerlikon Textile GmbH & Co. KG

“The Zeftron ColorMatch app showcases our commitment to simplifying the process of viewing and obtaining our premium nylon, while helping customers envision what beautiful carpets made with Zeftron nylon can look like,” said Sherrel Hooie, Business director, Fiber & Resin Sales. “This brings each of our 125 colors within reach, complete with technical specifications and downloadable resources, so that our customers have everything they need for their projects, all at their fingertips.”

Key features of the app include:

• Expansive Color Library: Explore the full spectrum of Zeftron’s product line through a user-friendly interface. Search for colors by name or number, color family (i.e. greens, blues) or browse the full Zeftron color library.
• Project-Perfect Matching: Using your smartphone, take a photo of the color you’d like to match and see the closest matching Zeftron colors in real time.
• Instant Sample Requests: Easily request Zeftron yarn samples directly from the app.
• Comprehensive Technical Specifications: Stay informed with up-to-date technical information on Zeftron nylon specification details.
• Downloadable Resources: Access color swatch palettes and ASE files instantly to simplify and expedite the design process.
• Direct Contact Options: Easily connect with Zeftron’s expert support team for personalized assistance and guidance.

More information about Zeftron nylon is available at www.zeftronnylon.com.

Posted: October 21, 2024

Source: Zeftron® Nylon

DuPont Kevlar® EXO was first introduced to the life protection market in April 2023, enabling body armor with an unprecedented combination of flexibility and lightweight strength from an aramid fiber. In fuel bladders, it significantly enhances performance by providing superior resistance to impact and abrasion. This improvement in strength allows for the development of lighter yet highly reliable fuel bladder systems, meeting stringent FIA requirements while reducing overall weight by more than 20 percent. Kevlar EXO thus plays a crucial role in enabling the creation of high-performance products that prioritize safety and efficiency.

“The first time we tested Kevlar EXO, we knew it was going to be game changing. We have not seen any new innovation or technology like this in fuel bladders in decades,” said ATL CEO Giles Dawson. “With the weight savings Kevlar EXO enables, we are excited to see how we can further collaborate to bring even more innovative FIA-certified products to the industry. Our development focus for the 2026 regulations where every race car will utilize with fully sustainable fuel, this innovative new material has provided several benefits in our development efforts.”

Drawing on their combined knowledge and expertise in safety, design, racing industry certification, mechanical testing capabilities, and research and development, DuPont and ATL worked together to ensure the new fuel bladder complies with FIA safety standards. This successful collaboration has ultimately led to the transformation of the way F1 fuel bladders are constructed.

After the success of the initial program, DuPont and ATL plan to expand their collaboration to explore how they can apply the learnings from F1 fuel bladders to other racing industries such as NASCAR, IndyCar, and Le Mans.

“This collaboration goes beyond the fact that Kevlar EXO is DuPont’s biggest fiber innovation in more than 50 years. It also further proves the variety of game changing applications the material can have outside of military and defense, allowing us to take a front row seat in new industries,” said DuPont Global Commercial Leader for Kevlar® EXO Jill Clements. “The performance we’re seeing from Kevlar EXO has enabled us to look to new markets, applications, and industries, and we’re excited about what’s next.”

Posted: October 18, 2024

Source: DuPont

Spinnova collaborates with ASK Scandinavia, a Helsinki-based premium brand that creates timeless and design-driven bags, to create a limited-edition work tote bag inspired by Nordic design. The bag design will integrate ASK Scandinavia’s minimalist style while ensuring the bag meets the highest standards of durability and usability, making it a staple for daily use.

The bag combines three sustainable innovators: Spinnova’s pioneering technology and textile fibers, ASK Scandinavia’s versatile Nordic design, and Natural Indigo Finland’s innovative coffee waste-based dyes. Each contributor supports the comprehensive approach to product sustainability.

Spinnova’s fibers have 74-percent fewer CO2 emissions and 98-percent less water usage than conventional cotton*. ASK Scandinavia’s timeless designs and quality materials ensure the longevity of the product lifecycle. Natural Indigo Finland’s dyes are extracted from waste coffee grounds, which do not contain as many toxins as synthetic dyes. The dyeing time is shorter, and the same batch of dyes can be utilized multiple times.

“We are honored to collaborate with pioneers like Spinnova and Natural Indigo Finland, whose innovations are setting new standards in fashion. At ASK Scandinavia, we are committed to lowering the industry’s environmental impact by integrating next-gen materials that replace conventional, non-renewable resources. By combining Spinnova’s revolutionary fibre technology with natural dyes made from coffee waste, we’re demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to responsible design. This collaboration isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about proving how impactful partnerships can actively drive the shift toward a lower-impact fashion industry,” says Anette Cantagallo, director of Design and Sustainability at ASK Scandinavia.

“We are excited about collaborating with a timeless Nordic brand to launch a product in a new application category: handbags. Using natural dyes to create the bag’s color highlights the comprehensive sustainability approach considered during the design phase. We set out to explore the versatility of Spinnova’s fiber in different applications and dyeing methods, and are very satisfied with the result,” commented Shahriare Mahmood, chief product and sustainability officer at Spinnova.

A limited edition of the tote bags will be available for pre-order at the end of 2024 and in ASK Scandinavia’s online store in 2025. The bag design will be revealed at the product’s launch.

*Figures are based on projected, third-party emission calculation (2022) for the joint venture Woodspin’s factory in Jyväskylä, Finland. The figures include raw material supply, transportation of raw materials, and manufacturing of the product (cradle-to-gate). The ecoinvent dataset 3.9.1 has been used for the global average emissions of conventional cotton.

Posted: October 18, 2024

Source: SPINNOVA PLC

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Rajeev Sonthalia, director, Birla Carbon, said: “The launch of the Asia Post-Treatment Plant at Patalganga marks a significant milestone in Birla Carbon’s journey toward creating and deploying cutting-edge technology solutions for our customers. Asia is an emerging market for the carbon black industry and the strategic location of this plant will encourage innovation with our partners.” He further added, “This brownfield facility will enable Birla Carbon to leverage its global reactor capabilities, operating at the highest yields and efficiency. The precision in the manufacturing technology ensures that our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance, catering to the specific needs of our diverse customers, both regionally and globally. And by doing so, we enrich the lives of our consumers and inspire trust with our partners.”

The Asia Post Treatment Plant facility’s advanced technology ensures precise control over reaction times, facilitating the production of ultra-high-performance grades that are tailored to specific customer needs. With its ability to meet stringent clean product standards, the APT facility offers a distinct advantage over traditional products, positioning Birla Carbon as a market leader in delivering sustainable, high-quality solutions.

Sharing his thoughts on this new milestone, John Loudermilk, president and CEO, Birla Carbon, said: “The launch of our Asia Post Treatment Plant reflects our long-term commitment towards the industry and the businesses we serve. This facility enables us to support our customers more effectively while reinforcing Birla Carbon’s position as a thought leader in developing sustainable, high-performance carbon-based solutions for the future.” He further added, “This treatment facility strengthens our commitment to meeting global demand in high-growth sectors and leading the carbon black industry towards greater sustainability and efficiency. By prioritizing innovation and sustainability in every aspect of our operations, we are not just responding to current needs; we are anticipating future demand and setting new standards for quality, reliability, and environmental responsibility. Thus living our purpose to ‘Share the Strength'”.

In addition to its broader range of applications, including packaging inks and automotive and industrial coatings, the ATP facility is strategically designed to tap into niche markets such as toys and tool coatings, where the demand for low PAH products is rapidly growing.

Located in Patalganga, India, the plant provides key advantages such as proximity to emerging Asian markets. It serves as a key backup to Birla Carbon’s North Bend facility in the United States.

Posted: October 17, 2024

Source: Birla Carbon

Envalior’s sustainability ambitions focus on reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and extending its circular portfolio by:

• Achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030*.
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 100% by 2040*.
• Offering an entire portfolio of bio-based and/or recycled based alternatives by 2030.

“Sustainability is a key priority in our strategy, and we want to make that visible to the world,” said Günter Margraf, Director of Sustainability for Envalior. “Meeting these ambitions will enable us to realize the huge transformation that is ahead of us and help our customers on their sustainability journey.”

The United Nations Global Compact

Another commitment Envalior has taken towards sustainability is becoming a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. Based on 10 universal principles, the UN Global Compact pursues the vision of an inclusive and sustainable global economy and focuses on topics such as human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. As a signatory Envalior commits to operating in accordance with these fundamental rights and will report annually on its progress.

CEO of Envalior Calum McLean stated: “It is exciting to confirm that Envalior supports the United Nations Global Compact and its principles. Making it part of the strategy, culture and day-to-day operations of our company, and to engage in collaborative projects, which advance the broader development goals of the United Nations.”

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a vision for peace and prosperity for the people and the planet. At its core are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that address global challenges, such as inequality and climate change and that provide guidance for businesses. Envalior is committed to supporting the implementation of the SDGs and has evaluated where Envalior’s business activities have the greatest direct impact on:

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Envalior’s goal to achieve 100-percent renewable electricity by 2030 has a positive impact on SDG 7. Envalior has implemented various initiatives, including renewable power purchase agreement and solar panel installations that make electricity consumption cleaner. At the same time these measures relate to SDG 13 “Climate Action” as also greenhouse gas emissions are decreasing. Other measure that enhances Envalior’s emissions consumption is its nitrous oxide reduction plant in Antwerp, Belgium, that saves roughly 450,000 t CO2eq on a yearly basis. These are only some of several steps that Envalior is taking to become a frontrunner in sustainability.

Envalior was established in 2023 through the merger of Lanxess Performance Materials and DSM Engineering Materials

Posted: October 17, 2024

Source: Envalior

“At Reformation, we’ve set an ambitious commitment to become circular by 2030,” says Kathleen Talbot, chief sustainability officer and vice president of Operations at Reformation. “To us that means using as little virgin material as possible, creating as little waste as possible, and keeping what’s in the fashion system in use for as long as possible. Through cycora, Ambercycle is helping brands like Ref bring closed-loop garments to the market. This is an especially important step forward for circular fashion when you consider that more than half of global fiber production is composed of fossil fuel derived synthetics like polyester and, at present, nearly all of it ends up in landfill after its first life.”

Reformation’s new apparel collection, designed to complement its limited-edition jewelry collaboration with Clare Waight Keller, evokes the glamour of Hemingway’s Paris with 1920s influences woven throughout. This collection, focused on evening-appropriate gowns and separates, will incorporate cycora polyester, a high-performance material made from discarded textiles that would otherwise be destined for landfills or incineration. cycora provides a true breakthrough in circularity by regenerating textiles into new, high-quality fabrics, overcoming the performance limitations of conventional recycled materials. According to the Center for European Textile Innovation, CETI, its superior durability ensures cycora® can be used and reused multiple times without degrading in quality, seamlessly meeting the demands for closed-loop products in fashion.

“We value Reformation’s high material standards and are excited to help them meet their circularity goals,” said Shay Sethi, CEO of Ambercycle. “Collaborating with another like-minded, LA-based brand to drive global impact is especially meaningful. By integrating cycora into their collections, we’re not just advancing sustainability — we’re transforming how materials are sourced, used, and reused in fashion.”

Posted: October 16, 2024

Source:Ambercycle

“We understand that achieving the greenhouse emissions target requires a collective effort across the industry to develop effective solutions,” said Simon Whitmarsh-Knight, Hyosung Global Sustainability director – Textiles. “To this end, Hyosung is actively partnering with industry leaders such as Geno, utilizing its BDO technology, and more recently with Ambercycle in the development of circular business models. Additionally, our collaborations with Textile Exchange have also given us valuable insights that we can share with our customers to support them on their sustainability journey.”

Hyosung will discuss these developments along with the following textile solutions at Performance Days Munich October 23-24, The Textile Exchange Conference in California, October 28 – November 1, Functional Fabric Fair Portland November 20-21, and Future Fabrics Expo NYC November 19-20.

From Nature to Performance Fiber

Creating a more powerful, traceable sustainable story, Hyosung has expanded its regen BIO Spandex offering to include various options for the yarn to be made with a higher content of renewable resources to include new regen BIO + and regen BIO Max. Hyosung was the first company to commercially introduce USDA and SGS-certified regen Bio-Based Spandex made with 30% renewable resources in 2022, which has been successfully adopted by leading global brands such as Pangaia, Icebreaker, Silver Sea, Van Harvey, and more.

Reuse. Recycle. Regen.

To meet consumer desire for sustainable apparel that offers comfort with performance benefits, Hyosung has uniquely added multi-function properties in the manufacture of its certified 100 percent recycled Spandex, Nylon and Polyester fibers that include performance benefits such as cooling, warming, anti-odour, and that also offer a natural touch. Hyosung will also present the latest innovations with its GRS-certified, 100 percent post-consumer recycled regen Ocean Nylon made from discarded fishing nets.

Additionally, through its partnership with Ambercycle, a leading material science company, Hyosung is introducing a circular polyester made from end-of-life textiles into supply chains, further advancing its efforts to create a circular textile ecosystem.

“Sustainable strategies vary widely among brands, so it’s important to provide solutions to meet their needs,” Whitmarsh-Knight said. “Some customers have been committed to using recycled materials for a significant time and are now looking to expand their fabric offerings to include materials made from renewable resources. On the other hand, there are brands who prefer 100% recycled materials and are not yet ready to explore fabrics made from bio-based fibers. Nevertheless, through communication and education about new sustainable technologies, we have observed an increased willingness among brands and retailers to incorporate new options into their product lines.”

To help product developers and designers conceive garments made with its innovative yarns, Hyosung will present a broad assortment of multi-function fabrics and concept garments developed by its Fashion Design Center (FDC) at each show.

Posted: October 16, 2024

Source: Hyosung

AMSilk is forming a strategic collaboration with Ajinomoto, leveraging Ajinomoto’s extensive industrial expertise in precision fermentation and its strategically located site in France. The facility, in the vicinity of AMSilk’s key customers in the premium textile and consumer goods industries, is backwardly integrated with local raw materials and renewable energy, aligning perfectly with AMSilk’s commitment to sustainable business practices.

This partnership marks a significant step for AMSilk as it rapidly progresses towards becoming a commercial supplier of spider silk-based proteins. By harnessing Ajinomoto’s global fabrication capabilities and state-of-the-art facilities, AMSilk is well-positioned to achieve its commercial milestones and further its mission of delivering high-performance biotech materials on a large scale.

“We are thrilled to partner with AMSilk and are committed to accelerating the market development of their innovative products by supporting their large-scale biomanufacturing efforts,” said Hiroshi Kaneko, president, Ajinomoto Foods Europe. “Together, we aspire to create a substantial economic and social impact while driving global innovation forward.”

“As a global player with longstanding expertise, Ajinomoto is an ideal production partner for us,” said Ulrich Scherbel, CEO at AMSilk. “Their premier fermentation capabilities in France enable us to meet the demands of our European customers by providing near-shored, high-quality materials.”

AMSilk provides disruptive material solutions to enable the world’s leading brands to address their carbon footprint. Its protein formulations do not contain any substances of animal origin or fossil-based raw materials and leave no microplastics behind. At the end of their life, they are verifiably biodegradable or recyclable. Being biofabricated, these materials can be tailored at a molecular level to specific markets or product requirements.

Posted: October 16, 2024

Source: AMSilk GmbH