No alternatives to synthetics and single-use in the fight against COVID-19
With shortages of PPE constantly making headlines over the past few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized, more than ever, the world’s current reliance on synthetic polymers and fibers in single-use disposables. Where will this leave initiatives to develop more sustainable fibers and encourage longer lasting products, with the end goal of eventually achieving a …
Fibers for nonwovens – in pursuit of viable alternatives
As has been previously noted in International Fiber Journal, the nonwovens industry needs alternatives to synthetic fibers, and specific sectors need them fast (see “Legislation poised to boost demand for Lenzing’s lyocell fibers,” IFJ, Issue 6 2019, page 20). With the imminent arrival of the European Single-Use Plastics Directive, and similar legislation planned in North …
High performance fibers for composite reinforcement
According to a report by Textile Media Services, the value of the global composites market was around $96 billion in 2019, and while components reinforced with carbon fibers generally gain all the attention through their association with Formula One motor racing and the aerospace industry, glass fibers account for well over 90% of the market …
Legislation poised to boost demand for Lenzing’s lyocell fibers
In June 2019, Lenzing announced plans to establish what will be the largest lyocell cellulosic fiber plant in the world, with an annual capacity of 100,000 tons. To be located in Bangkok, Thailand, it will become operational sometime in 2022. In addition, the Austrian company has established offices in Sao Paulo, Brazil, with a view …
The plastics industry – committed to change or defending the status quo?
The year 2018 can be considered an annus horribilis for plastics, including synthetic polymer and fiber-based products that rely on such materials. The issue of microplastics in the oceans generated a mountain of negative publicity and calls for far-ranging action against the industry and, at the same time, the publicity surrounding so-called ‘fatbergs’ created, in …