Hot Topics
Masking strategy to counter infection
With COVID-19 now making its third major wave with Omicron, even vaccine-boosted people have been infected with this variant, demanding countermeasures such as the use of masks, avoiding gatherings and enhancing hygiene measures. Medical experts and the available data clearly point out that vaccines have reduced the hospitalization and severity of the disease. The nature …
The Fiber Year 2021 – world staple fibers
Global supply of staple fibers in 2020 accounted for nearly 59 million tonnes, 52% of the world fiber and yarn market. Their share continuously diminished from more than 80% in the 1980s. Development after the turn of the millennium clearly revealed a distinct tendency in favor of mainly wood-based types comprising viscose, modal and lyocell …
COVID-19 Update: Texas Tech researchers author study using new standardized mask filtration testing to evaluate effectiveness of alternative facial coverings
With the coronavirus (COVID-19) spreading worldwide, International Fiber Journal is tracking stories relevant to the textile fiber industry. Facemasks, personal protective equipment, medical supplies and wipes are among the fiber-intensive technologies particularly relevant to the COVID-19 response effort. And as manufacturers of these technologies and others struggle to meet global demand in the face of the …
Recycling processes for the plastic waste from textiles
Plastics play a major role in our lives. They are widely used in many sectors and applications, but at the end of their lifecycle they become waste that needs to be managed properly. Given the steady rise in the consumption of plastic materials and the subsequent generation of huge amounts of waste, the European Commission …
Renewcell, Kelheim Fibres form collaboration to establish a European closed loop for sustainable textile fibers
Renewcell and Kelheim Fibres Gmbh recently signed a letter of intent to develop commercial production of viscose fibers from up to 10,000 tonnes annually of Renewcell’s 100% textile recycled material Circulose. The collaboration is exciting because it provides a vehicle for scaling fully closed-loop recycling and regeneration of sustainable textile fibers. Renewcell and its Circulose …