In the dynamic and global textile fiber industry with its various manufacturing processes and end-uses, news and information is breaking on a daily basis. International Fiber Journal is tracking stories relevant to our industry from manmade to natural to bio-based fibers, innovations in nonwoven, woven, braided and technical textiles, technologies for additives, bonding, coatings and polymers, and applications from apparel to hygiene to transportation, and more. Here we will post news stories relevant to textile fibers and their downstream applications on an ongoing basis. Please check back for regular updates. If you have news that you feel should be added to this summary report, please email it to Matt Migliore at mmigliore@inda.media.
Most recent update: January 31, 2022
Ahlstrom-Munksjö to construct new glass fiber tissue line in Kentucky
Ahlstrom-Munksjö has signed contracts for civil works and machinery to build a new glass fiber tissue line facility located in Madisonville, Kentucky, USA. Construction will begin in February 2022 with completion expected in summer 2023. The location of the new building is next to the existing Ahlstrom-Munksjö production site developing and producing filtration materials for transportation and industrial applications.
This $68 million (USD) investment is described as a major step ahead in Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s global growth strategy in glass fiber tissue markets. The new line will produce a full range of glass fiber tissue nonwovens, with a main focus on Luxury Vinyl Tiles and Vinyl sheet materials for the flooring industry of North America. This line represents state-of-the-art foam forming glass fiber tissue technology, and customer deliveries from the new line are expected to start in mid-2023.
Source: ahlstrom-munksjo.com
CNITA reviews 2021 accomplishments; announces 2022 schedule
The year 2021 was a milestone for the China Nonwovens and Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA), as it celebrated its 20th anniversary and announced its 14th Five-Year Plan. Among the 2021 highlights for CNITA include:
- Investigated and studied the industrial clusters and key companies in Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Fujian, Guangdong, Shandong, Hubei, and Liaoning (the output of nonwovens in these provinces accounts for more than 80% in China). Reported the state of nonwovens industry to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), and proposed policies that are conducive to the industry.
- Completed the project “Research on Production Capacity Layout Optimization and Reserve of Mask and Protective Clothing” commissioned by the Industrial Development Department of NDRC. The project analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 on the development of the mask and protective clothing industry, predicted the opportunities and challenges, and proposed policy recommendations.
- Completed the project “Assessment and Judgment of China’s Mask Quality and Safety Status” commissioned by the State Administration for Market Regulation. The project comprehensively summarized the industry chain, standards, demands and quality of mask, analyzed the key technical indicators that affect the mask quality, and proposed policy recommendations.
- Entrusted by the China Democratic League, Completed the project “Research on the Recycling and Reusing of Waste Textiles and Apparels.” The project analyzed the current state of recycling and reusing of waste textiles and apparels, and proposed some detailed suggestions that will improve the reusing rate of waste textiles and apparels.
- The 1st Asia Wipes Summit attracted more than 350 attendees and 20 tabletop exhibitors. The two-day conference gathered wipes professionals for face-to-face business, educational content and social interactions.
- The China International Nonwovens Expo & Forum (CINE) held in the odd-numbered years was incorporated into the China International Trade Fair for Technical Textiles and Nonwovens (CINTE) in 2021, and CINTE will be held
annually from 2021. - The China Nonwovens and Industrial Textiles Intelligent Manufacturing Conference invited the well-known experts inside and outside the industry to share the innovation and application of digital equipment, artificial intelligence, intelligent equipment with nearly 500 attendees.
- Released 2020/2021 Development Report of China Nonwovens and Industrial Textiles. The report focused on the operation of the industry under the COVID-19 pandemic, analyzed and forecast China’s nonwovens and industrial textiles industry, and also included the analysis and outlook of application fields—shared members with a more comprehensive content of the entire industry.
- Released 2020/2021 Technical Report of China Nonwovens and Industrial Textiles. The report shared members with the latest technology, process, product, application, etc., expected to promote the technological progress and products upgrading of member companies.
- Established the Nonwovens Green Development Alliance (NGDA) to implement the low-carbon and green development of the nonwovens industry, promote the application of degradable fibers in the production of nonwovens. In 2021, NGDA released the biodegradable-product’s logo, and actively carried out green certification of disposable nonwovens’ products.
- CNITA and some of its member companies donated children’s masks, medical and sanitary textiles, geotextiles, flood relief materials, and money to the disaster areas in Henan (middle China’s province) to help disaster relief and guarantee people’s health.
- CNITA issued T/CNITA 23101-2021 “Spunlace nonwovens and terminal products—Evaluation for biodegradability .” This standard is conducive to promoting the green and sustainable development of the spunlace nonwovens industry.
- Two research achievements of nonwovens and industrial textiles nominated by CNITA won the 2020 National Science and Technology Award.
- 17 research achievements of nonwovens and industrial textiles nominated by CNITA won the 2021 China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC) Science and Technology Award.
- CNITA was awarded the title of “National Textile Industry Advanced Collective” by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China and CNTAC. In addition, 9 member companies of CNITA was also awarded the title of “National Textile Industry Advanced Collective”, and 32 employees of the member companies was awarded the title “National Textile Industry Model Worker”.
- The Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) awarded CNITA the title of “National Advanced Social Organization” (selected by MCA every five years). This is the second time that CNITA has won this honor.
2022 event calendar
- Asia Wipes Summit
July 21-22, 2022, Shanghai - China International Trade Fair for Technical Textiles and Nonwovens (CINTE 22)
September 6-8, 2022, Shanghai - China International Nonwovens Conference (CINC 22)
September 6-7, 2022, held during CINTE 22
Source: cnita.org.cn
Lenzing marks 30 years for its TENCEL lyocell fiber brand
Lenzing’s flagship textile brand, TENCEL, is celebrating three decades of sustainable fiber innovation this year.
“Since its launch 30 years ago, TENCEL has always been envisioned as a solution provider for the textile industry,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, member of the managing board at Lenzing. “Aligning with the industry-wide shift towards deeper levels of sustainability and transparency, in 2018, the brand evolved from a behind-the-scenes contributor to a front-facing player. From then on, TENCEL expanded its offerings from fiber creations to pioneering digital technologies. To date, the TENCEL brand has exceed expectations across the industry as ‘the trusted provider’ of high-quality sustainable fibers among leading global fashion and home textile brands. We are thrilled to reach this milestone and are looking forward to driving continuous innovation and building stronger partnerships over the next 30 years and beyond.”
As part of the “digital first” strategy of the TENCEL™ brand, TENCEL™ invested heavily in proprietary technologies to reduce environmental impact during textile production and developed platforms to support sustainability. From the introduction of fiber identification technology to fabric certification and licensing services offered via the Lenzing E-Branding Service platform, the TENCEL brand has been a driving force towards full-scale supply chain transparency.
In addition to driving supply chain transparency, Lenzing said the TENCEL brand is also committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In 2020, the industry’s first carbon-zero TENCEL-branded fibers were launched, and the carbon zero offering was quickly extended to fibers with REFIBRA technology in 2021. Anticipating the rising demand from consumer brands for specialty fibers, Lenzing has been strengthening its production capabilities with an ambitious growth plan. Such growth will be fueled by the opening of the world’s largest lyocell production facility in Thailand in early-2022.
“In 2022, we will continue to focus on producing carbon-zero innovations that make a difference to the textile and fashion industries,” said Florian Heubrandner, vice president Global Textiles Business at Lenzing. “The next decade will see more sustainability-driven innovations unveiled to actualize our 2050 vision. We are grateful to have worked alongside our partners and colleagues over the last 30 years and we look forward to greater success in the next 30!”
Source: lenzing.com
Kimberly-Clark reports year-end 2021 results and provides 2022 outlook
Kimberly-Clark Corporation reported sales of $5.0 billion in the fourth quarter of 2021, an increase of 3 percent versus the prior year. Organic sales increased 3 percent as net selling prices rose 2 percent and product mix increased sales 1 percent. In North America, organic sales were even with year-ago in consumer products and increased 2 percent in K-C Professional. Outside North America, organic sales rose 8 percent in developing and emerging (D&E) markets and 2 percent in developed markets.
In the Personal Care segment, fourth quarter sales of $2.6 billion increased 12 percent over the prior quarter. Volumes grew 5 percent, net selling prices increased 4 percent and product mix improved 2 points. The net impact of the Softex Indonesia acquisition and exited businesses in conjunction with the 2018 Global Restructuring Program increased sales approximately 1 percent. Fourth quarter operating profit of $425 million increased 6 percent.
In the Consumer Tissue segment, fourth quarter sales of $1.6 billion decreased 10 percent. The net impact of the Softex Indonesia acquisition and exited businesses in conjunction with the 2018 Global Restructuring Program decreased sales 1 percent. Volumes declined 7 percent and net selling prices decreased approximately 1 percent. The volume comparison reflects elevated shipments in North America in the year-ago period to support higher consumer and customer demand related to COVID-19. Fourth quarter operating profit of $201 million decreased 40 percent. The comparison was impacted by lower organic sales and higher input costs. Results benefited from cost savings and reduced marketing, research and general spending.
In the K-C Professional segment, fourth quarter sales of $0.8 billion increased 2 percent. Net selling prices rose 4 percent while volumes declined 2 points. Fourth quarter operating profit of $72 million decreased 31 percent. The comparison was impacted by higher input costs. Results benefited from organic sales growth, lower other manufacturing costs, cost savings, and reduced marketing, research and general spending.
Full-year 2021 results showed sales of $19.4 billion increased 2 percent. Organic sales decreased 1 percent as volumes declined 4 percent while net selling prices increased 2 percent and product mix improved 1 percent. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased sales by 1 percent and the net impact of the Softex Indonesia acquisition and business exits in conjunction with the 2018 Global Restructuring Program increased sales approximately 1 percent.
In January 2018, Kimberly-Clark initiated the 2018 Global Restructuring Program to reduce the company’s structural cost base and enhance the company’s flexibility to invest in its brands, growth initiatives and capabilities critical to delivering future growth. As part of the program, Kimberly-Clark exited or divested some low-margin businesses that represented about 1 percent of company net sales and sold or closed 11 facilities.
Charges for the restructuring program were completed at the end of 2021. Total cumulative costs were $2,175 million pre-tax ($1,635 million after tax) compared to the previous estimate for charges of $2,100 to $2,200 million pre-tax ($1,580 to $1,650 million after tax). The program generated annual pre-tax cost savings of $560 million, at the high end of the previous savings range.
Kimberly-Clark’s 2022 outlook assumes no significant additional impact from potential supply chain disruptions as a result of COVID-19. In addition, key planning and guidance assumptions are as follows:
• Net sales increase 1 to 2 percent.
• Operating profit down low to mid-single digits percent compared to adjusted operating profit in 2021.
• Nonoperating expense expected to increase somewhat compared to adjusted nonoperating expense in 2021.
• Interest expense expected to increase slightly.
• Effective tax rate of 22 to 24 percent.
• Net income from equity companies up somewhat year-on-year.
• Earnings per share of $5.60 to $6.00.
• Capital spending of $1,000 to $1,100 million.
• Dividend increase of 1.8 percent (approved by the Board of Directors and as mentioned previously in this release). The quarterly dividend will increase to $1.16 per share, up from $1.14 per share in 2021. The first dividend will be payable on April 4, 2022 to stockholders of record on March 4, 2022.
• Share repurchases of approximately $100 million.
Source: kimberly-clark.com
Andritz to supply spunlace line to Uzbekistan’s Texygen Textile
International technology group Andritz has received an order from the Uzbek cotton spinning specialist Texygen Textile LLC to supply a complete neXline spunlace line. Start-up is scheduled for the first quarter of 2023.
This will be the first spunlace line ever installed in Uzbekistan. The equipment will process high-quality cotton fibers in a fully integrated production line, from bleaching to winding. With this new line, Texygen Textile will be able to produce top-class spunlace wipes made of 100-percent cotton, thus opening up new market opportunities.
The ANDRITZ equipment will minimize fiber loss and enable Texygen to produce a high-end spunlace fabric that will allow the company to serve the international medical industry with premium-quality spunlace wipes.
Rasulov Ikrom, owner of Texygen Textile, said: “We are very proud to be a pioneer in the spunlace industry in our country. We have commissioned ANDRITZ to supply our first spunlace line, and their know-how relating to the carding machine, among other units, will enable us to produce premium-quality, nonwoven cotton roll goods.”
Source: andritz.com
Sateri viscose mills in China complete Higg Facility Social and Labour Module audit
All of Sateri’s five viscose mills in China have undergone independent evaluation of their social and labor practices, having completed the Higg Facility Social and Labour Module (FSLM) audit and achieved a consistent high score of above 80%.
A member of the RGE group of companies, Sateri is also one of the world’s first viscose producers to have completed the Higg Facility Environmental Module (FEM) assessment, with the similar verified high score of over 80% for all its viscose mills.
Developed by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, a global, multi-stakeholder non-profit alliance for the fashion industry, the Higg Index is a suite of tools that enables brands, retailers and facilities of all sizes to accurately measure and score a company or product’s sustainability performance.
The FSLM tool of the Higg Index holistically assesses working conditions of the mills, including fair wages and compensation, health & safety, respectful treatment of employees etc; while the FEM tool focuses more on environmental performance, including energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, chemical and waste management.
Source: sateri.com
Asahi Kasei’s Tong-suh Petrochemical Corp. set to begin production of ISCC PLUS-certified AN using biomass propylene
Asahi Kasei announced in October 2021, Tong-suh Petrochemical Corp., Ltd. (TSPC), a wholly owned subsidiary in South Korea, acquired the international certification ISCC PLUS for its acrylonitrile (AN) as a sustainable product, and production of AN using biomass propylene is now scheduled to begin in February 2022.
AN is used as a raw material to make ABS resin, acrylamide, acrylic fiber, and various other chemical products. Recent demand growth has been particularly robust in the applications of carbon fiber as a material to reduce the weight of wind turbine blades, etc., and nitrile rubber for medical gloves whose use is expanding due to heightened awareness for hygiene.
Propylene is an important chemical intermediate in organic chemistry. It is generated during the thermal cracking of hydrocarbons and can be produced also by bioethanol from biomass fermentation processes. Biomass means plant or animal materials that can be used to produce bio-energy. These are usually wastes from agriculture, private households, industry or forestry. Food crops such as rapeseed, corn, wheat, sugar beet or sunflowers are also used as raw materials.
ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) is an international certification system that offers solutions for the implementation and certification of waste and residue raw materials, non-bio renewables and recycled carbon materials and fuels. ISCC PLUS is a certification system that covers mainly bio-based carbon materials, which are produced outside the EU and supplied globally, and to manage and ensure sustainable raw materials in the supply chain.
In order to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, measures to reduce CO2 emissions throughout the product chain of fossil fuel-derivatives are gaining momentum, and AN customers are increasingly seeking to manufacture products using AN with low CO2 emissions in order to contribute to GHG reduction. Under these circumstances, Asahi Kasei and TSPC sought to reduce CO2 emissions across the AN supply chain, and in October 2021, TSPC became the first AN manufacturer in Asia to acquire ISCC PLUS certification.
The certification system enables TSPC to produce and sell AN using biomass raw material allocated by the mass-balance method. TSPC is scheduled to begin producing AN using biomass propylene in February 2022. In the case of a mixture of biomass raw materials, etc., and fossil fuel-derived raw materials in the production process, the portion of biomass product, etc., produced is assigned to certain products (biomass AN) based on ISCC PLUS System Documents and its recognized management methods.
The Asahi Kasei Group said it will continue efforts to further reduce CO2 emissions by improving the AN catalysts and processes based on original technologies, as well as the procurement of biomass raw material, aiming to be a global sustainable partner for its customers.
Source: asahi-kasei.com
JEC World postponed
After thorough consultation with the exhibitors and partners of the event, JEC Group has decided to postpone the 2022 edition of JEC World. The event will now take place from May 3rd to 5th, 2022, at the same venue Paris Nord Villepinte, as well as online via the JEC World Connect digital platform.
JEC World is focused on the value chain of the composite materials industry in Paris, France every year and is “the place to be” for composites professionals from all over the world. The event brings together not only all major global companies, but also startups in the field of composites and advanced materials, experts, academics, scientists, and R&D leaders. JEC World also showcases technology for various application sectors, from aerospace to marine, from construction to automotive, and an unlimited source of inspiration for participants from these industries.
“We are fully dedicated to supporting the composites industry and to fostering its development via our events and media activities. Exhibitors and partners are strongly supporting JEC World, their leading event and want to meet in person in 2022 to activate business, share knowledge and highlight innovations. Postponing from March to May is a way to offer improved conditions to satisfy the industry requirements for such a trade fair as JEC World”, said Eric Pierrejean, CEO of JEC Group.
Source: jeccomposites.com
Fiber Industries to expand US operation
Fiber Industries, a leading American textiles manufacturer, announced plans to expand operations in Darlington County, South Carolina, USA. The company’s more than $30 million investment is expected to create more than 50 new jobs in the area.
Fiber Industries produces polyester staple fiber for high-end performance fabrics, workwear, knit goods, the automotive industry and more.
Currently employing more than 300 individuals and located at 1000 East McIver Road in Darlington, Fiber Industries’ expansion includes increased capacity through the restoration and modernization of production lines. Fiber Industries will also use the additional investment to install state-of-the-art control systems and increase warehouse space.
The company expects to complete the expansion project in early 2023.
The South Carolina Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to the Fiber Industries expansion project. The council also awarded Darlington County a $300,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to assist with the costs of building improvements.
Source: fiberindustries.com
Teijin Aramid, Clariter develop carbon neutral solution for recycling Endumax
For over twenty years, Teijin Aramid has been recycling Twaron fibers in its own recycling facilities, but in its quest to zero emission, the company has joined forces with Clariter to develop chemical advanced recycling of Endumax, an Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE).
As a future-oriented enterprise, Teijin Aramid has been looking for a sustainable solution for recycling end-products. Clariter’s innovative technology transforms potential plastic waste into high-value, pure industrial products with a net negative carbon footprint, which means it cleans the environment rather than pollutes it.
Tests on Teijin Aramid’s Endumax feedstock were carried out at Clariter’s pilot plant in Gliwice, Poland. The results determined that samples of fishing nets, ropes and air cargo containers are indeed suitable for chemical recycling. High-resistance UHMW-PE, which was once problematic to recycle, has been now successfully upcycled into feedstock as pure, crude-free industrial products with thousands of applications, such as cleaning agents, degreasers, paints and specialty wax. For some markets, such as fishing nets, this results in full circularity as the wax can be used to coat fishing nets again. In other markets, this open-loop recycling leads to valuable products that can either serve in production processes or in other applications.
Jasper Munier, Clariter’s business development manager for North-West Europe, said, “Working with a partner like Teijin Aramid and proving that chemical recycling is the solution for the plastic waste epidemic, brought us again a bit closer to a cleaner and more sustainable future. As a next step, we want to process samples of much larger quantities and types at our 15,000-square-meter industrial-scale plant in East London, South Africa. We look forward to working with the Teijin Aramid team of experts and together positioning chemical recycling as an irreplaceable recycling solution.”
Hendrik de Zeeuw, director of marketing & sales at Teijin Aramid, said, “Via this partnership with Clariter, Teijin Aramid has set a next step in the recyclability of Endumax. That means Endumax is now in the same league as the other products of Teijin Aramid, which is overall a great achievement. Together with Clariter, we will be able to help customers in the offshore to take back their Endumax ropes, nets and cables to extend the end of life. In the aerospace business, from now on, we will devotedly comply with end-user requirements, that after use, the full air cargo containers, including the panels, can be recycled. In collaboration with Clariter, we come again a step closer towards our ambition to be the best high-performance fiber company for the world.”
Source: teijin.com
NatureWorks announces new headquarters and advanced biopolymer research facility
In response to rapid growth in the market for sustainable biomaterials, NatureWorks announced its intent to open a new headquarters and advanced biopolymer research facility in Plymouth, Minnesota USA. Expanded laboratory capabilities will support research into the full circular lifecyle of Ingeo biopolymers from next generation fermentation technology to new applications, to increased functionality.
The expanded R&D capabilities will also support the construction and operation of the NatureWorks fully integrated Ingeo PLA manufacturing complex located in Thailand. With an expected opening in 2024, the facility will have an annual capacity of 75,000 tons of Ingeo biopolymer and produce the full portfolio of Ingeo grades.
“In the face of these challenging times, we’ve designed a space that will enable research, invention, and collaboration between us, our partners, and the market, no matter where we are located in the world,” said Rich Altice, president and CEO of NatureWorks. “These new facilities will help accelerate the pace of research and innovation as the urgent need for real, safe solutions that help address climate and environmental challenges from plastics and chemicals continues to grow.”
The new space is designed to embody the company’s mission to create sustainable, high-performance materials by incorporating low environmental impact materials, including lighting, flooring, and art made with Ingeo, as well as systems for reducing water and energy usage. A robust organics recycling collection system will divert food waste away from landfills to compost with compostable food service ware, coffee pods, and tea bags all available to visitors and employees.
A redesigned experience will facilitate collaboration and showcase examples of Ingeo in applications from appliances to 3D printing, to compostable and recyclable paper coatings. The move to the new headquarters and R&D facility located at 17400 Medina Road, Suite 800, Plymouth, MN, 55447, USA will begin in February 2022.
Source: natureworksllc.com
Arkema, French Académie des sciences to award innovations in sustainable materials
Arkema and the Académie des sciences have announced the Prize for Innovation in Chemistry for Sustainable Materials, in the sum of €25,000, with the aim of rewarding a scientist of international standing in the field of materials. The award is specifically designed to award scientific work that contributes to the development of innovative materials at the service of environmental protection and sustainability. This could, for example, include biosourced, recyclable, high-performance, and lightweight materials for renewable energy, sustainable construction, or mobility.
Arkema has a long history of breakthroughs in innovative and environmentally friendly materials, from Rilsan Polyamide 11 to the very latest Pebax Rnew elastomers for sports shoes, the Elium resin for recyclable wind turbine blades, the Kizen bonding technology for more sustainable packaging, the Sartomer photocure resins for coatings and 3D printing, and a number of solutions for developing high-performance electric batteries.
The prize is intended to encourage research in these areas, which are key for society at large, by joining forces with the prestigious Académie des sciences. With its multidisciplinary approach and very high academic standards, the Academy is committed to scientific development, promotes science education, and fosters the transfer of knowledge as well as international cooperation.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and of both public and private partners, the Académie des sciences awards numerous prizes, scholarships and medals every year. These awards honor accomplished scientists or support young researchers early on in their careers. Through these awards, the Académie des sciences directly contributes to its mission of championing the world of science.
Source: arkema.com
Indorama announces two manufacturing sites achieve International Sustainability Carbon Plus Certification
The Hygiene Division of Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) announced that two of its manufacturing sites have achieved International Sustainability Carbon Plus Certification.
FiberVisions’ Varde site in Denmark, a polypropylene fiber producer, and Avgol’s Uzlovaya site in Russia, a spunlaid nonwovens producer, satisfied audits related to traceability and the reasonable use of biomaterials.
Shachar Rachim, CEO, IVL Hygiene Division, part of IVL’s Fibers business segment, said, “This accreditation underscores our commitment to support our customers to achieve their carbon dioxide reduction targets through using carbon neutral fibers. The certification is assurance that our nonwoven fabrics and fibers meet all the ISCC’s demanding standards for recycled-renewable materials. Our certified facilities can trace the product’s composition through the supply chain, without needing to requalify the materials.”
IVL expects that the ISCC Plus certification of these two sites will be followed by similar certifications at other manufacturing plants. IVL is developing a broad portfolio of technologies to address how component materials interact with the environment to improve recyclability, reduce raw material consumption, and minimize the impact of fugitive wastes.
Source: indoramaventures.com
Karl Mayer reorganizes wrap knitting and technical textiles service in India
Karl Mayer transferred its service and spare parts support for customers in the warp knitting and technical textiles sectors in India from Ahmedabad to the Stoll site in Noida. The move to the southeastern suburbs of Delhi took place in March 2021, with the Indian subsidiary, now operating under the new name Karl Mayer Stoll India Private Limited, beginning operations as early as April 1. Karl Mayer Textile Machinery India Private Limited remained in Ahmedabad, offering support in the warp preparation market for weaving.
“Our teams of resident engineers and with placement close to our customers mainly provide our clients with technical support such as installations, condition checks, troubleshooting and overhaul of machines,” said Anurag Sidh, service operations manager at Karl Mayer Stoll. “Annual maintenance is also taken care of by contract. We in Noida support the service specialists on site with know-how and with administration.”
Stoll’s business is concentrated in Noida, Ludhiana, Mumbai and Tirupur, with customers in the warp knitting sector mainly located in Surat. The new office offers customers spare parts and training from its Academy. The location employs about 70 service specialists.
Source: karlmayer.com
Annual Cellulose Fiber Conference to meet in person and online
The Cellulose Fiber Conference is set to meet in Cologne, Germany on February 2 and 3, 2022. The conference will showcase innovations from hygiene and textiles to nonwovens and carbon fiber alternatives to lightweight construction applications. Online participation is also possible.
The conference provides information on opportunities for cellulose fibers through policy assessment, a session on sustainability, recycling and alternative feedstocks as well as latest development in pulp, cellulose fibers and yarns. This includes application such as nonwovens, packaging and composites.
At the conference, host nova-Institute and sponsor GIG Karasek GmbH will present the “Cellulose Fiber Innovation of the Year” award to one of six products, ranging from cellulose made of orange and wood pulp to a technology for cellulose fiber production. The presentations, election of the winner by the conference audience and the award ceremony will take place on the first day of the conference.
Conference sessions include “Strategies and Market Trends,” “New Opportunities for Cellulose Fibers in Replacing Plastics” and “Sustainability and Circular Economy.” Insights on the “Hot Button Report” are offered by Canopy, enabling producers of cellulose fibers to understand the impact raw materials have on forests and the climate development worldwide.
The full conference program is available at cellulose-fibres.eu/program
Source: cellulose-fibres.eu
BASF to expand HMD & Polyamide 6.6 production capacity in Europe
BASF will build a new hexamethylene diamine (HMD) plant in Chalampé, France, increasing the company’s annual HMD production capacity to 260,000 metric tons. Production is expected to start in 2024.
BASF also announced plans to expand its polyamide 6.6 production in Freiburg, Germany starting 2022.
The planned investments will further expand the polyamide 6.6 business that BASF acquired from Solvay in 2020. “With this new HMD plant in Chalampé and the expansion of the polymerization in Freiburg, BASF ensures that customers can be reliably supplied with HMD and PA6.6, while also addressing increasing demand in the market,” said Dr. Ramkumar Dhruva, president of BASF’s Monomers division.
HMD is a precursor used in the production of high-quality polyamide 6.6 plastics and coating raw materials. Among other things, these products are used in the automotive industry as well as in the production of special fibers.
Source: basf.com
Karl Mayer Textile Drying Profit Center ends 2021 with 1,000 cylinders
Karl Mayer Rotal hit 1,000 drying cylinders produced in 2021 on December 16, 2021, a new high from Mezzolombardo. The steam-heated drying cylinders for Karl Mayer’s denim and sizing lines, as well as third party business, feature round shapes and uniform wall thicknesses for homogeneous heat transfer, and an anti-adhesive coating that meets all the requirements of the EU chemicals regulation REACH.
“1,000 cylinders per year has been a magical goal and constant drive for us since 2018 at the latest, even in times of strict lockdowns,” said Karl-Heinz Vaassen, head of the Textile Drying Profit Center.
Source: karlmayer.com
Indorama Ventures wins “Best Sustainability-Linked Transaction & Best ESG-Linked Financing Deal of the Year”
Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) was awarded “Best Sustainability-Linked Transaction & Best ESG-Linked Financing Deal of the Year” for its THB 10 billion Sustainability-Linked Bond (SLB) issued in November 2021. The award was presented by Alpha Southeast Asia at the 15th Best Deal & Solution Awards 2021.
“This award reflects our long-standing commitment to sustainability and creating opportunities for investors to take part in the positive transformation of the chemical industry,” said Yash Lohia, chairman of ESG Council at Indorama Ventures. “This award confirms that financial markets value our ambitious sustainability and ESG efforts towards a more sustainable future.”
IVL’s THB 10 billion issuance is the largest SLB transaction in Thailand and the first offered to both institutions and high-net-worth investors. The financial instrument is linked to the company’s sustainability goals of reducing GHG emissions intensity by 10% by 2025, increasing recycling of PET bale input to 750,000 tons per year by 2025, and achieving 25% renewable electricity consumption in 2030.
“Launched in the midst of challenging market conditions, Indorama Ventures’ THB10,000 million Sustainability-Linked Bond is a milestone transaction for Thailand’s burgeoning bond market,” said Siddiq Bazarwala of Alpha Southeast Asia. “As a strong credit, the overwhelming response to one of ASEAN’s most innovative Socially Responsible Investment bond issues will serve as an important blueprint for other borrowers.”
IVL appointed Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, Krungthai Bank, Siam Commercial Bank and the Bangkok branch of HSBC as arrangers and book runners for the green transaction.
Source: indoramaventures.com
VDMA to present webinars on recycling of man-made fibers & resource-saving strategies for textile dyeing and washing
Under the umbrella of the European Union’s Green Deal, the European Commission is developing a strategy for a “Circular Textile Economy,” which is expected to be revealed in 2022.
The circular economy will have a profound impact also on the future of the manmade fiber industry and open up many new opportunities.
ITA – Institute of Textile Technology at RWTH Aachen University and Oerlikon Manmade Fibers will present the challenges and solutions for a sustainable circular economy during a VDMA Webtalk on Jan. 19 at 8:00am U.S. EST. For more information and to register for this free webinar, visit https://en.industryarena.com/vdma-textile-machinery/webinar/1373899388.
VDMA will also present a Webtalk on strategies for resource-saving textile finishing and dyeing on Feb. 3 at 7:00am U.S. EST.
The textile industry is a big consumer of water, chemicals and energy. In this webinar, representatives from Monforts, DyStar and Fongs will offer solutions to achieve good competitive quality fabric and reduce the consumption of water, chemicals and energy. Attendees will learn how a good balance between chemistry, dyeing processes and machinery can reduce the waste of resources.
To register for this free webinar, visit https://en.industryarena.com/vdma-textile-machinery/webinar/1373899386.
Source: vdma.org
Kelheim Fibers publishes sustainability report
Kelheim Fibers published its first Sustainability Report. As part of its EMAS certification, Kelheim has published an annual environmental statement since 2020, in which all relevant environmental data are available to the public. The Sustainability Report covers the company’s environmental performance and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a whole.
“Credibility and trust are based on transparency,” said Sustainability Manager Timo Thunitgut. “Our Sustainability Report according to the framework of the UN Global Compact follows these principles and presents our actions fully transparently. It shows how we as a company live up to our responsibility for people and the environment; it reveals our contribution to combatting one of the biggest global problems of our time – the increasing waste problem caused by disposable plastic products – with our biodegradable fibers.”
Following this approach, Kelheim has also created a new structure internally, giving more weight to the area of CSR. Moving forward, all sustainability topics will be centrally integrated in the new CSR department (formerly Health, Safety & Environment) under the leadership of Wolfgang Ott.
“Responsible corporate behaviour is and will increasingly become a relevant competitive differentiator,” said Ott. “By bundling all CSR aspects in one department, our CSR performance, a topic that has been firmly anchored in our philosophy for years, will gain even more visibility and impact.”
Source: kelheim-fibers.com
DITF signs agreement with Saint-Gobain Ceramics for the production of oxide ceramic fibers
The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) signed an agreement with Saint-Gobain Ceramics on cooperation and joint development in the field of metal oxide ceramic fibers.
Metal oxide ceramic fibers are a component of fiber-reinforced ceramic materials (CMC: Ceramic Matrix Composites), which are suitable for a wide range of high-temperature applications. Fiber reinforcement produces a damage-tolerant ceramic material that is not brittle. Potential applications include components in industrial furnaces, charge carriers for temperature treatment and, in the high-tech sector, components in high efficiency stationary gas turbines, lower fuel consumption aircraft gas turbines and in space applications. A significant increase in the industrial use of CMCs is forecast for the coming years, and with it, a growing demand for ceramic fibers.
Source: ditf.de
Bast Fibre Technologies acquires natural fiber processing facility from Georgia Pacific
Bast Fibre Technologies Inc. (BFT), a manufacturer of premium natural fibers for the global nonwoven and textile industries, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Lumberton Cellulose LLC (LC), a natural fiber processing facility located in Lumberton, North Carolina, from Georgia-Pacific Cellulose LLC. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Acquiring this state-of-the-art natural fiber processing facility and integrating the great team at Lumberton enables BFT to immediately establish North American manufacturing operations to meet the rapidly growing demand for our sustainable natural fibers”, said BFT CEO and Chairman Noel Hall. “Following our recent acquisition of German-based fiber processor FVT, this is another key step in our long-term strategy of building significant high-quality manufacturing capacity for our global customers supporting our core mission of ‘grow local, process local, sell local’.”
The purchase of LC builds on BFT’s existing relationship with Georgia-Pacific. In February of 2020, BFT licensed a suite of patents relating to the use of bast fibers in a variety of nonwoven products and processes from Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products on a global, exclusive basis.
BFT plans to grow and invest in the operation, establishing LC as its flagship U.S. manufacturing site and opening new opportunities and markets for North American hemp and flax growers.
“This acquisition is a key strategic milestone in our mission to build out significant manufacturing capacity while supporting the vast potential of North American grown hemp and flax”, said BFT president Jim Posa. “Lumberton Cellulose is a top producer of quality fibre and with the current infrastructure and excellent, highly experienced team at Lumberton, we expect to significantly expand the facility’s production capabilities over the next few years. This acquisition will play an integral role in supporting North America’s transition away from plastic and manufactured cellulosic fibres and toward a more sustainable future.”
The final purchase is expected to close in BFT’s first fiscal quarter, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
Source: bastfibretech.com
Indorama Ventures to expand packaging business into Vietnam
Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) announced that it is in the process of acquiring shares in Ngoc Nghia Industry – Service – Trading Joint Stock Company (NN).
NN is a PET converter in Vietnam with four manufacturing sites in both North and South Vietnam. It has a total production capacity of approximately 5.5 billion units of PET preforms, bottles and closures, or equivalent to a PET conversion of 76,000 tons per annum.
“This investment opportunity is in line with IVL’s business strategy of expanding our footprint in rising economies like Vietnam,” Mr. D K Agarwal, CEO of Combined PET, IOD and Fibers Business at Indorama Ventures said. “The country is positioned to be the ASEAN production hub for the Asia-Pacific region. Moreover, Vietnam’s PET packaging market is expected to grow continuously due to strong growth in consumption and improving living standards. The proposed acquisition would foster sustainable growth in our largest business segment, Combined PET, which has been growing constantly to serve increasing demands globally.”
The acquisition process is required to follow the Law on Securities, its guiding decrees and circulars as required by the State Securities Commission of Vietnam and regulations of the Hanoi Stock Exchange. Through its affiliate, Indorama Netherlands B.V., IVL would be required to do the tender offer of all of NN’s shares. The transaction is expected to be completed by the first half of 2022.
Source: indoramaventures.com
Renewcell uses Circulose dissolving pulp in industrial-scale production
In collaboration with Yibin Hiest Fiber Limited Corporation, Renewcell has used 100% Circulose dissolving pulp in industrial scale viscose filament yarn production. Viscose staple fibers made with Circulose have been commercially available since 2019.
Yibin, a CanopyStyle “Green Shirt”-ranked viscose staple fiber and viscose filament yarn producer, has verified Circulose pulp for use at a 100% concentration in industrial-scale viscose filament yarn production. The quality of the yarn produced from 100% Circulose by Yibin in December 2021 exceeds “Superior Grade” according to Chinese National Standards of GB/T 13758-2008. This marks the first known industrial scale production of virgin-quality viscose filament yarn made from 100% recycled textiles. The new commercial partnership with Yibin has been facilitated by Renewcell’s exclusive trading partner Ekman Group.
“Our partnership with Renewcell and Ekman is an exciting and giant step,” said Deng Min, president of Yibin Grace Group Co. Ltd. and Yibin Hiest Fiber Limited Corporation. “Circulose filament yarn made from 100% recycled textile waste is a significant addition to our Made in Green product portfolio. There is a clearly increasing consciousness for more sustainable material in textile industry. I am convinced that by combining our expertise and knowledge, we will reduce carbon footprint and accelerate progress towards our ambitious goal of making fashion a closed loop.”
The development follows on the successful lab-scale production of 100% Circulose filament yarn in collaboration with the German research institute Fraunhofer in 2020.
“I am delighted to expand the commercial Circulose portfolio to include filament yarn,” said Patrik Lundström, CEO of Renewcell. “I am also impressed by Yibin’s innovation capacity and look forward to deepening our collaboration and start shipping Circulose filament yarn to brand partners in 2022. In Renewcell’s endeavor to make fashion circular, we will keep working together with leading partners to prove the usefulness of Circulose in different textile applications.”
Source: renewcell.com
Sorona introduces global mill network
Following the debut of its Common Thread Fabric Certification Program, Sorona introduced the Preferred Mill Network, a catalogue of mills offering the full collection of sustainable Sorona sub branded fabrics. The network of certified mills is available to any apparel brand in need of samples and sourcing of fabrics tested to meet standards set by Sorona.
“The impacts of sustainability efforts are best at scale,” says DuPont Global Brand & Communications Leader, Alexa Raab. “Through the recent COP26 Climate Change Summit we’ve seen how much work there is to do in all corners of industry. We’re taking this step with the Preferred Mill Network and Common Thread Fabric Certification Program to further our commitment to transparency and ease of access to sustainable fabrics throughout the value chain.”
Since the debut of the Common Thread Fabric Certification Program, Sorona has certified 350 fabric mills worldwide and shipped hangtags for more than 43.7 million garments. Among the certified fabrics, the most certified option is Sorona Agile, the comfort stretch fabric used for spandex replacement in activewear and athleisure garments.
To qualify for certification, fabric mills must submit fabric swatches to the DuPont (or DuPont approved) lab for testing. Each sample is analyzed for a minimum content level of Sorona, as well as for quality and performance characteristics.
Certified fabric types include: Sorona Agile; Sorona Aura, an insulation fill; Sorona Luxe for natural fiber blends; Sorona Profile, a replacement for 100% nylon or PET fabrics; and Sorona Revive for shape retention and dimensional stability.
From harvesting to production, the process for making Sorona uses 30-40% less energy and releases 56-63% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the production of nylon. Fabrics made from Sorona polymer can also be dyed and heat-set at lower temperatures compared to polyester furthering the energy efficiency down the value chain.
“Fundamentally, making Bio-PDO is the same as the fermentation process for making beer,” says DuPont Biomaterials Product & Global Application Development Principle Investigator Samit Chevli. “The use of Bio-PDO to make Sorona PTT polymer gives the polymer some unique properties. At a molecular level the polymer has a zig zag orientation, which gives fibers produced from Sorona polymer a spring-like property. This provides much better resiliency (bounce) and stretch than other types of polyesters.”
Source: sorona.com
Trinseo completes acquisition of Heathland B.V.
Trinseo announced the completion of the acquisition of Heathland B.V., a plastic waste collector and recycler based in Utrecht, the Netherlands.
Heathland is focused on converting PCR and PIR polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS) and other thermoplastic waste. The company collects, pre-treats and processes plastic waste materials using mechanical and chemical recycling processes and turns the materials into recycled raw materials for a wide range of applications. Heathland is involved in several projects, including MMAtwo and Revolution, both funded by the Horizon 2020 program of the European Commission.
“Today is another exciting milestone in Trinseo’s transformation journey in becoming a global specialty materials and sustainable solutions provider,” Francesca Reverberi, SVP and chief sustainability officer of Trinseo commented. “The addition of Heathland to the Trinseo family enables the group to have access to comprehensive recycling technologies and plastic wastes as feedstock. The shared sustainability vision of both companies has now become one. We will continue to invest in the movement toward a circular economy.”
The acquisition is aligned with Trinseo’s 2030 Sustainability Goals, which outline the company’s focus on tackling climate change, embedding sustainability in its product portfolio, promoting supplier and operational stewardship and embodying responsibility as an employer.
Source: trinseo.com
Huntsman appoints two directors and announces governance changes
Huntsman Corporation appointed Curtis E. Espeland and José Muñoz to its Board of Directors. Additionally, Cynthia L. Egan was named lead independent director, non-executive vice chair of the board and chair of the nominating and corporate governance committee, and Sonia Dulá was made a member of the compensation committee with the intent she becomes chair when Wayne A. Reaud leaves the board.
“As part of our board’s ongoing refreshment process, I am pleased that we have identified two outstanding independent directors in Curt and José, who both bring extensive experience in operating companies in or relevant to our industry and in executing on strategic growth plans,” said Peter R. Huntsman, chairman, president and CEO. “With these additions, I’m confident that our board and the company will be strongly positioned to ensure management achieves the growth strategy and financial targets we outlined at our November Investor Day to unlock value for our shareholders. We continue to engage with shareholders and appreciate the substantive input that we have received to date as our company continues to evolve our portfolio and execute on our strategy.”
Huntsman also announced, consistent with the company’s director retirement policy, that three existing directors, Nolan D. Archibald, outgoing lead independent director, vice chair of the board and chair of the nominating and corporate governance committee, M. Anthony Burns, prior chair of the audit committee, whose upcoming retirement was previously announced at the Investor Day, and Sir Robert J. Margetts will transition off the board as planned at the 2022 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Wayne Reaud, chair of the Litigation and Public Policy and Compensation committees, will support the transition of those committees’ oversight duties before stepping down from the board at or before the 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders when he will reach the retirement age.
These changes follow the addition of three independent directors in the last 18 months, including Jeanne McGovern, who joined the board in February 2021 and was appointed to chair the Audit Committee effective January 1, 2022. As a result, seven independent directors have been appointed since 2018.
Source: huntsman.com
International Textile Manufacturers Association postpones ITMF Annual Conference
Due to the uncertain and unpredictable outlook with regard to travel and event restrictions caused by the new COVID-19 variant “Omicron,” the International Textile Manufacturers Federation, along with co-hosts Swiss Textiles and Swiss Textile, have decided to postpone the ITMF Annual Conference in Davos, Switzerland from April 10-12, 2022 to September 18-20, 2022.
Regular updates on the ITMF Annual Conference 2022 can be found at: https://www.itmf.org/conferences/annual-conference-2021
ITMF is an international forum for the world’s textile and related industries founded in 1904. ITMF members are associations and companies covering the entire textile value chain – producers of fibers, textile machinery, chemicals, textiles, apparel, and home textiles. The membership is from more than 40 countries and is representing around 90% of global production.
Source: itmf.org
Karl Mayer India announces opening of new demonstration center
Karl Mayer Group in India and its affiliated company, Karl Mayer Textile Machinery India Pvt. Ltd., opened a new demo center at its site in Ahmedabad. The highlight of the new location for the presentation of machines is the ISOWARP, which is a sectional warping machine built in Ahmedabad to facilitate short delivery times and optimum spare parts supply to our customers. Karl Mayer Textile Machinery India delivered its first ISOWARP model with a working width of 3600 mm in October 2021.
The ISOWARP processes spun yarns and filament yarns and is particularly suitable for standard applications in the fields of apparel fabrics and home textiles. It is able to produce warp beams of exceptionally high quality and thus enables significant increases in quality and productivity in the weaving mill.
“We are looking forward to welcome our visitors. Our customers can come to us and see exactly how the ISOWARP works. We will show them the most important features of the machine in practical use and will be available for questions and discussions,” said Kevin Socha, director at Karl Mayer Textile Machinery India Pvt. Ltd. The Karl Mayer India team and the ISOWARP will also be available in Ahmedabad for processing tests.
The company also offers training for its customers’ technical personnel. “Only with the right knowledge of the warp preparation process can the potential for competitive advantages be exploited,” said Raja Poptani, general manager Finance & Administration at Karl Mayer Textile Machinery India Pvt. Ltd. The training offer includes courses at the textile manufacturers’ premises, but also qualification events with theoretical and practical parts in the, just opened, demo center on the ISOWARP.
Source: karlmayer.com
Ambercycle raises $21.6M to build circularity ecosystem in the fashion industry
Ambercycle Inc announced the closing of an oversubscribed $21.6 million Series A financing from H&M CO:LAB, KIRKBI, Temasek, Bestseller’s Invest FWD and Zalando. With the funding, Ambercycle has raised a total of $27 million in order to develop infrastructure and materials for circularity within the fashion industry. The company was founded with the goal of building this circularity, producing solutions and processes to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Ambercycling, Ambercycle’s process of separating and purifying post-consumer textile waste at the molecular level to produce regenerated materials that brands and designers can craft into new garments, reduces the materials going into landfills, as well as the need to extract finite resources from the planet.
“The transition to circularity in fashion is inevitable” said Shay Sethi, co-founder and CEO of Ambercycle. “We are building an ecosystem in which materials can exist in harmony with humans and the environment. Our breakthrough molecular regeneration process enables a clear vision for circularity, in which fashion can flow in and out of our lives. Not only will this improve the sustainability performance of the items in our closets, but it builds a new way for us to interact with our materials.”
The company’s first solution, cycora, is a material that makes use of old garments by regenerating end-of-life textile waste into new fabrics. cycora serves as a replacement of polyester and emulates the functional characteristics of conventional fabrics while allowing apparel brands and designers to product garments with circularity in mind. With the funds raised, Ambercycle plans to scale up production of cycora.
“In KIRKBI, Circular Plastics is a new thematic investment area where KIRKBI wishes to support the movement towards a world where plastics never become waste,” said Damir Hamzić, Head of Circular Plastic investments at KIRKBI. “Globally, a significant part of plastic waste generated comes from textiles. In Ambercycle, we see a promising company within textile-to-textile recycling led by a highly dedicated management team and through this investment we want to support the further development of the company’s ambitious plans.”
Source: ambercycle.com
Huntsman announces review of strategic options for textile effects and compensation plan
Huntsman Corporation will conduct a review of strategic options for its Textile Effects Division and will initiate a multi-year compensation plan designed to align the incentives of the company’s management team with the targets presented at Huntsman’s Investor Day in November 2021.
The strategic review of the Textile Effects Division, headquartered in Singapore, will include a possible sale of the division. The review will begin in the first quarter of 2022. Huntsman has not set a timetable or a deadline for the conclusion of its evaluation of strategic alternatives for the Textile Effects Division and it does not intend to comment further unless and until its board has approved a specific course of action or the company has otherwise determined that further disclosure is appropriate or required by law.
The board of directors authorized management to implement a multi-year compensation plan for all officers and vice presidents designed to align with the interest of all shareholders and with financial targets. A majority of the plan participants’ equity incentives will be performance-based and tied to relative Total Shareholder Return and Free Cash Flow measures. In addition, the company’s incentive cash bonus program will be linked to the achievement of the Adjusted EBITDA margin, Optimization Program and Free Cash Flow targets set out at the Investor Day. Each of these targets builds on a multi-year effort to improve upon the company’s 2021 performance.
Source: huntsman.com
AATCC 2022 International Manual of Test Methods and Procedures now available
Volume 97 of The AATCC International Manual of Test Methods and Procedures is available in a USB or PDF version, with the hardbound book available after January 15, 2022.
The following AATCC standards have been developed, revised or reaffirmed since the publication of the 2021 volume. In accordance with AATCC M13, Rules of Procedure for AATCC Test Method and Technology Committees, all technical changes are unanimously approved by the responsible research committee and the Technical Committee on Research (TCR) before publication.
For more details and to purchase: members.aatcc.org/store/2022b/3601/
Source: aatcc.org
Arxada, Troy merger completed; enhancing presence is specialty chemicals, microbial control & performance additives
Arxada, a leading global specialty chemicals business, announced the completion of a merger with Troy Corporation, a global leader in microbial control solutions and performance additives. The deal, which was originally announced in early November 2021, is expected to enable the delivery of new solutions and value-added services to customers.
Troy is a global leader in the field of industrial preservation with broad expertise in paints and coatings, wood protection and preservation, home and personal care, plastics and textiles, energy and metal working fluids.
Arxada expects to benefit from Troy’s technical expertise, trusted customer relationships and broad portfolio of performance products, as well as its long history of innovation, including the invention of 3-iodo propynyl butyl carbamate (IPBC). Troy brings five new production sites with it, four research and development centers and approximately 650 employees, enhancing Arxada’s global commercial presence to accelerate the company’s innovation capabilities and better serve customer needs.
The completion of the combination with Troy follows Arxada’s acquisition of Enviro Tech Chemical Services, a category-leading manufacturer of proprietary and high-efficacy antimicrobial and biocidal products, announced in December 2021.
Source: arxada.com
Renewcell signs deals with European sorters to recycle thousands of tonnes of textiles annually
During December 2021, Renewcell signed multi-year purchasing agreements with three different European textile sorters — SOEX in Germany, Texaid in Switzerland and Sysav in Sweden. These companies will supply thousands of tonnes of textile waste each year for recycling at Renewcell’s new facility in Sundsvall. The deliveries to Renewcell will consist of clothing and other textiles collected from consumers that are not possible to sell second-hand.
“We continue to build a strong regional supplier network for textile waste fractions that are suitable for recycling with us. We’re delighted to be able to offer our partners a profitable and circular alternative to downcycling, incineration or landfill of textile products that can not be sold second hand,” said Martin Stenfors, COO at Renewcell.
According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), more than five million tonnes of textile waste are generated in Europe each year. About one-fifth of this amount is collected for some form of re-use, recycling for upholstery, insulation or rags or for export to other countries. The rest is lost in ordinary household waste and ends up either in landfill or incinerated. The issue of textile waste management is a priority within the EU, and from 2025 onwards, new mandatory requirements for separate collection and preparation for textile waste recycling will apply to all Member States.
Renewcell’s patented recycling process is designed to make it possible to create new high-quality textile raw material made entirely from recycled textile waste.
Source: renewcell.com
