Sustainability
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 …
Bio-based fibers with improved properties for clothing applications
Most fabrics currently available on the market are made of natural fibers, such as cotton and wool, and polyester (PES) blends. With the aim of finding a more sustainable material to produce clothing, polylactic acid (PLA) has been used to replace PES. PLA is biodegradable, compostable and obtained from renewable resources. It is also suitable for obtaining melt-processable fibers. PLA’s …
Global Fiber Congress embraces sustainability and the entrepreneurial spirit
Under the backdrop of climate change and environmental pollution, the fiber industry has become a major focal point for the textile and nonwoven industries, as well as along the entire value chain, from sourcing of raw materials through to the manufacture of apparel and technical products. This year’s Global Fiber Congress held in September in …
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 …
The plastics problem – a roundtable discussion
One of the most exciting areas of development in the fiber industry going forward figures to be in identifying solutions to minimize the environmental impact of nonwovens, technical textiles and other fiber-based end products. With the European Union’s recent ban on certain single-use plastic products, similar legislation currently being considered in California, and public outcry …