May 13, 2021
After a year away, the International Achievement Awards (IAA) return for the 75th anniversary of recognizing the best projects across the specialty fabrics industry. The awards are an opportunity for you to showcase your technical skills and talents to the entire industry. The International Achievement Awards is an annual competition that recognizes and promotes awareness …
May 10, 2021
Registration is open for IFAI Expo 2021. IFAI Expo celebrates the 100th anniversary of the show this November, and you won’t want to miss it! After a long hiatus of in-person events, this year’s show is the perfect place to reconnect with your industry. Register now to get the Early Bird rate! Early Bird rates end …
May 10, 2021
Despite the continued development and commercialization of various wearable electronic devices, such as smart bands, progress with these devices has been curbed by one major limitation: they regularly need to be recharged. However, a new technology developed by a South Korean research team shows significant potential to overcome this limitation for wearable electronic devices. The …
May 10, 2021
by Janet Preus An elderly woman I knew long ago once worked at a place she just called “Hands.” I know the workers didn’t make much money, but I think they were mostly elderly, female and enjoyed the socializing as much as anything. It was all “hand work,” and I’ve thought now and then about …
May 10, 2021
A new smart device has made it possible to ditch the notebook and pen in the gym and turn the tracking of an exercise regimen over to personal training gloves with sensing technology. Shape.Care is a comprehensive system designed to support amateurs and professionals in weightlifting training by monitoring all aspects of a workout, to …
May 10, 2021
A new coating solution discovered by researchers at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, can transform regular materials into waterproof surfaces. The university reports that the product will be free of harmful fluorinated compounds, and effective on a variety of materials. SFU chemistry professor and project lead Hogan Yu estimates that their patented waterproofing …
May 10, 2021
Specialized hand protection covers a range of work environments. by Dr. Marie O’Mahony The specialty glove market is highly diverse, ranging from disposable products to ones that protect against extreme environments, or cuts and other trauma dangers. In addition to the technical challenges, which are to be expected, the market is increasingly dealing with issues …
May 7, 2021
Fibre manufacturer Teijin has developed technology to mass produce a new version of its Nanofront ultra-fine polyester. The Japanese company has described Nanofront as the world’s first nanofiber to be made from recycled polyester raw materials. It also said that the new technology it has developed will enable it to produce all of its polyester …
May 6, 2021
by Seshadri Ramkumar Vaccinations and other countermeasures such as face masks and physical distancing are critical to conquer the pandemic, as indicated by the second pandemic wave ravaging India. A single day recently saw 352,991 new cases, making it a global record since the beginning of the pandemic. Global infectious disease experts emphasize the importance of …
May 5, 2021
Polymer producer Covestro has completed the acquisition of the resins and functional materials business of Dutch company Royal DSM. It announced its intention to acquire this part of DSM’s business in September; regulatory approval for the deal came through early in April. Covestro said this would substantially expand its portfolio of coating resins and, thanks …
May 10, 2021
Registration is open for IFAI Expo 2021. IFAI Expo celebrates the 100th anniversary of the show this November, and you won’t want to miss it! After a long hiatus of in-person events, this year’s show is the perfect place to reconnect with your industry. Register now to get the Early Bird rate! Early Bird rates end …
November 16, 2020
In a session at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020, “Smart Textiles Standardization, Active Illumination,” Dr. Jan Beringer, senior scientific expert Hohenstein Group, explained the new standard for active illumination that will soon be implemented in European Union countries. Organizations worked together to develop the standards. It is notable, he said that both textile and electronics industries …
November 13, 2020
The U.S. textile industry has stepped up to meet the demand for face masks, medical gowns, wipes and other products necessary to combat the coronavirus pandemic, but it needs policy changes from Washington so that the U.S. is not caught off-guard again in a future crisis, according to association leaders speaking at Industrial Fabrics Association …
November 12, 2020
Dr. Bryran Ormond, assistant professor, Wilson College of Textiles, NC State explained respiratory protection in an “Ask an Expert” session with Jing Liang, Medical PPE Consulting LLC. Dr. Ormand has typically worked in the area of chemical and biological protective equipment, but with the onslaught of the pandemic, began to focus on respiratory protection generally, …
November 11, 2020
All surgical gowns are not created equal, and a Nov. 11 presentation at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020 helped sort out the differences. The finer points of surgical gowns were discussed by Dr. Martin King, a professor at the Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, and Jing Liang, president of Medical PPE Consulting LLC. …
November 11, 2020
How do you create a channel from research to application? How do you create a pathway toward understanding complex human problems across supply chains and market sectors? STEM—a curriculum based on teaching science, technology, engineering and math—has branched out from basic chemistry and biology and physics classes, into collaborative efforts, including textiles, according to Stephanie …
November 11, 2020
At the 2020 Virtual Expo session, “Ask the Expert: Textile Electronics Testing and Standards,” Jesse Jur, a professor at the Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, discussed how standards and testing continue to evolve due to the evolution of textile-based electronics (e-textiles). Jur said that standards have long been a vital resource for …
November 10, 2020
Wildfires, hurricanes, a pandemic and civil unrest have wreaked plenty of chaos on the commercial insurance market in 2020. Steve Christenson, with Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC, offered guidance to business owners Nov. 9 at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020. “The business insurance market has been going through several changes this year,” says Christenson, with U.S. …
November 6, 2020
Thinking about selling your business—either to an outside party or the next generation? Then it’s time to start considering how your equipment and processes fit into your succession plan. Jonathan Palmer, the second-generation owner and CEO of equipment supplier Autometrix, and Autometrix director of global sales Truy Pham, led an educational session at IFAI Virtual …
November 6, 2020
“Lather, rinse, repeat. Lather, rinse, repeat,” became the mantra of Matt Komes, CEO at VOLT, when his company took on the challenge of making CBD-infused socks for pain relief. Komes presented the VOLT product development process Oct. 5 at IFAI Virtual Expo 2020. VOLT, a division of Supreme Corp., has expertise in military and medical …
May 10, 2021
Specialized hand protection covers a range of work environments. by Dr. Marie O’Mahony The specialty glove market is highly diverse, ranging from disposable products to ones that protect against extreme environments, or cuts and other trauma dangers. In addition to the technical challenges, which are to be expected, the market is increasingly dealing with issues …
April 26, 2021
FHEs and advanced textiles are a natural fit for sensing applications. by Ed Hendricks Flexible hybrid electronics (FHE) technology combines the flexibility and low cost of printed electronics technology with the performance of semiconductor devices to create a new category of electronics. No longer constrained by rigid, bulky and non-conforming printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), …
April 12, 2021
Flexible hybrid electronics show progress with advances in sensory yarns and fabrics. by Dr. Marie O’Mahony Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE) bring together capabilities from electronics, printing and material sectors including textiles, offering an alternative to product assembly with a more integrated approach for electronics and materials. Textiles-based FHE offer some unique solutions that are attracting …
March 22, 2021
The top five challenges and opportunities facing the industry in 2021. by Nate Bolin The list of trade issues facing Washington policymakers in 2021 is long and growing. Indeed, from the ongoing U.S.–China trade dispute, to new trade and investment rules for U.S. manufacturers, importers and exporters, there seems to be no end to the …
March 8, 2021
The U.S. is shaping its future in the international textile market. by Seshadri Ramkumar In the past two decades, most advanced nations have focused on advanced technology, paying specific attention to sectors such as information technology and biotechnology. While these fields are vital to the economy, COVID-19 has exposed vulnerabilities in the manufacture of products …
February 22, 2021
The evolution of electric vehicles relies on innovative nonwoven textiles. by Debra Cobb Nonwovens are playing an increasingly important role in automotive components as the evolution of electric and hybrid vehicles (EVs) create an imperative for transportation textiles that are lighter, quieter, stronger, cleaner and easier to recycle. Often unseen, nonwovens are found in backings …
February 8, 2021
Major changes in vehicles will offer opportunities to innovators in this market. by Marie O’Mahony Recent reports illuminate key factors influencing tomorrow’s automotive textiles segment. Most notably, the automotive lightweight material market is expected to reach $247 billion by 2026, according to Global Market Insights. “In 2010 almost 40 percent of an average car’s weight …
January 25, 2021
Examining the past year and looking ahead to a new normal. by Janet Preus Editor’s note: What our editorial calendar intended to cover and what we actually covered in 2020 presents an interesting perspective on the larger picture, overwhelmingly impacted by a worldwide pandemic. This article is a brief retrospective of the “year like no …
January 11, 2021
The next leap in these protective technologies is on the horizon. by Debra Cobb For the past few decades, para-aramid fibers and UHMWPEs (ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene) have been the standard bearers in ballistic textiles. But the changing nature of warfare and the need to increase mobility while improving protection are challenging the industry to step …
December 21, 2020
Natural materials can help achieve a cost and benefit balance in sustainability goals. by Seshadri Ramkumar COVID-19 has up-ended our normal way of life, which we may have taken for granted. With the economy suffering as a result, and with the need to create growth and employment, the manufacturing sector has its work cut out …
January 29, 2021
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and U.S. Representative Kathy Manning (D-NC) wrote to President Biden calling on the Administration to prioritize purchasing fully made in America Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), according to Textile World in a January 24 article. The lawmakers outline four steps the Administration can take now to ensure our frontline workers have products needed …
January 29, 2021
A broad coalition of industry organizations and labor unions, representing a broad spectrum of manufacturers and workers who stepped up to make essential PPE and other products throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, sent a letter today to President Biden and congressional leaders outlining recommendations on specific policy initiatives that must be adopted to re-establish a permanent …
December 22, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic will be remembered as one of the most challenging and unprecedented periods ever for the specialty, technical and engineered textile industries. As 2020 comes to a close, Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) would like your help in understanding how businesses in our industries were affected by the events of this year and …
November 12, 2020
Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) is very fortunate to have so many volunteers who give of themselves selflessly, helping every day by serving on different boards, task forces and committees. These volunteers judge competitions, provide education and impassioned leadership to others day-in and day-out. To acknowledge their service, IFAI developed a program in 2012 called …
November 12, 2020
Honored Life Member status for Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) is designed for individuals who have shown a commitment to the association. Honored Life Membership is bestowed by special request only, and at the discretion of the IFAI Board of Directors to candidates based on the following criteria: Meritorious or outstanding work accomplished for the …
November 12, 2020
Each year, Industrial Fabrics Association International’s (IFAI) Leadership Development Committee follows a detailed process outlined in our bylaws for electing board members. It is IFAI’s pleasure to announce the newly elected and re-elected individuals who were chosen to serve on the 2021 IFAI Board of Directors. Newly Elected Directors Jennifer Fennell, Polo Custom ProductsJennifer Fennell …
September 3, 2020
By Kathryn Allen, APPI Energy (Editor’s note: APPI energy services are included in the membership benefit package offered by Industrial Fabrics Association International. The following information was compiled by APPI to help explain their services.) APPI Energy provides our clients a comprehensive way to reduce energy expenses and create budget certainty. Unbiased and independent, we …
February 10, 2020
Nerve agents are some of deadliest substances on the planet. From Sarin gas, which turns the human nervous system against itself, to mustard gas, which burns on contact and disrupts respiratory function, these chemicals, often unseen, are ones the U.S. Army is working to protecting against and destroy. A new fabric, generated by Omar Farha’s …
January 27, 2020
by Chris Jorgensen During a meeting at IPC APEX EXPO 2017, members of the e-textiles industry approached IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries) to help achieve their goal of developing international standards for their burgeoning field. IPC standards are open international standards, meaning anyone can participate in the process and can influence IPC standards, and because …
October 21, 2019
Global yarn production has increased by 17 percent between the final quarter of 2018 and the first quarter of 2019, according to the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), a recent article in knittingindustry.com said. Higher output levels were observed in Asia (+18 percent), Brazil (+18 percent), the U.S. (+3.2 percent) and Europe (+1.6 percent). The …
March 22, 2021
Researchers at Colorado University (CU) Boulder have developed a new, low-cost wearable device that transforms the human body into a biological battery. The device is stretchy enough that it can be worn like a ring, a bracelet or any accessory that touches the skin. The device taps into a person’s natural heat, employing thermoelectric generators to …
March 22, 2021
Video: MIT. If you’ve ever swatted a mosquito away from your face, only to have it return, you know that insects can be remarkably acrobatic and resilient in flight. Those traits help them navigate the aerial world, with its wind gusts and obstacles. MIT Assistant Professor Kevin Yufeng Chen has built a drone system that …
March 8, 2021
Designer Phillip Lim has partnered with New York-based industrial designer Charlotte McCurdy to create a dress made of a biodegradable base layer and covered in algae-grown bioplastic sequins. Dezeen.com reports that the collaboration is part of the One X One project, an incubator organized by the Slow Factory Foundation that pairs high-profile designers with sustainability innovators. “Sustainability in fashion is not …
February 22, 2021
Touch-sensitive electronic skin for robots is a project under development by a number of groups. Cornell University reports that scientists there are pursuing a simpler approach, however, using shadow-imaging cameras to let robots know when they’re being touched. Known as ShadowSense, the experimental system incorporates a USB-powered laptop-connected camera, located beneath a non-electronic translucent “skin” on a soft-bodied …
February 8, 2021
Engineers at Tufts University in Massachusetts have created and demonstrated flexible thread-based sensors that can measure movement of the neck, providing data on the direction, angle of rotation and degree of displacement of the head. The discovery raises the potential for thin, inconspicuous tatoo-like patches that could, according to the Tufts team, measure athletic performance, …
January 25, 2021
Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a new film that can absorb sweat and potentially use the moisture to power wearable electronics. For sweat to cool us down properly, it needs to evaporate, which carries the heat away. The new film is designed to speed that process up, with the research …
December 21, 2020
A team of MIT researchers has sent samples of high-tech fabrics, some with embedded sensors or electronics, to the International Space Station (ISS). According to information released by MIT News, the samples will be exposed to the space environment for a year to determine a baseline for how well these materials survive the harsh environment of …
October 26, 2020
Russian and Swiss scientists have learned how to replicate a nanocoating with antimicrobial, anti-reflective and self-cleaning properties, based on the structures covering the corneas of fruit fly eyes, that could find applications in the textile industry. Researchers from Far Eastern Federal University teamed with colleagues from the University of Geneva, the University of Lausanne and Zurich’s Swiss …
September 14, 2020
Known for its solar-powered and origami-inspired lighting, Solight Design, based in New York, N.Y., has ventured into the mask design arena with the SEEUS95 clear, self-adhering, earloop-free mask, which the company says can provide better protection than masks made with nonwoven polypropylene, woven or knit fabrics. The mask features a natural filter made of bamboo, silk, …
September 14, 2020
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. consumers send about 70 percent of the clothes and footwear produced each year to landfill. Project Biogarmentry, by designer Roya Aghighi, has been launched to address the drastic increase in the environmental impact of textile waste and air pollution. Using the fields of synthetic biology and design, its …
May 10, 2021
A new smart device has made it possible to ditch the notebook and pen in the gym and turn the tracking of an exercise regimen over to personal training gloves with sensing technology. Shape.Care is a comprehensive system designed to support amateurs and professionals in weightlifting training by monitoring all aspects of a workout, to …
May 10, 2021
Despite the continued development and commercialization of various wearable electronic devices, such as smart bands, progress with these devices has been curbed by one major limitation: they regularly need to be recharged. However, a new technology developed by a South Korean research team shows significant potential to overcome this limitation for wearable electronic devices. The …
April 26, 2021
South Korean fiber producer Huvis has begun to mass produce a dyeable graphene fiber. Until now, high-purity graphene fiber has been possible only in the research phase, and most of the graphene fiber commercialized so far has either had substandard graphene content, or it is fiber that’s coated with a graphene material. Working with its …
April 12, 2021
Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has developed a highly permeable and super-elastic conductor that can be used for wearable electronic devices and withstand wearing for a long period of time. This novel conductor is fabricated by coating or printing liquid metal onto an electrospun elastomeric fiber mat, which offers high permeability, stretchability, conductivity and electrical …
April 12, 2021
Scientists from Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) and Swiss research and development company Osmotex AG have developed a mask that disinfects itself at the push of a button. According to information provided by ZHAW, the prototype of the mask made from electrochemical textiles has an antiviral effect of more than 99 percent. Prof. Chahan Yeretzian, …
April 12, 2021
University of Rhode Island (URI) assistant professor Daniel Roxbury and former URI graduate student Mohammad Moein Safaee have created a continuous, noninvasive way to detect and monitor an infection in a wound by imbedding nanosensors in a “smart bandage.” “Single-walled carbon nanotubes within the bandage will be able to identify an infection in the wound by detecting concentrations of …
March 22, 2021
Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden, have developed a thread made of conductive cellulose, which can be used in textiles that generate electricity. “There is a real need for organic, renewable materials for use in electronic textiles,” says Sozan Darabi, doctoral student at the Dept. of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Chalmers. “Miniature, …
March 19, 2021
DiOX, a company based in Ireland that develops fabric finishing chemicals, announces successful testing of its new antiviral fabric chemical D4. Due to the pandemic, “an increased emphasis on cleanliness and sanitization will influence purchase decisions above price, environmental impact and performance,” says business unit lead, Dave Evans, responsible for the DiOX’s new anti-viral fabric chemical …
March 17, 2021
Japanese knitting machine manufacturer Shima Seiki announces a new knitting technique that offers more bulk to WHOLEGARMENT knitwear and offers additional versatility. By combining two different yarns between outside and inside, the company says that it is able to achieve multi-functional garments depending on the yarns used. Using Japanese paper yarn on the outside and …
March 8, 2021
Soft robotic clothing that could help people to move more easily is a step closer to reality with the development of a new flexible and lightweight power system for soft robotics. Researchers from Bristol University, Bristol, U.K., have successfully demonstrated a new electro-pneumatic pump that is soft, bendable, low-cost, easy to make and about the …
