April 9, 2018
A range of new materials and technologies are adding functionalities to textiles. Textiles are well established as passive materials offering comfort and protection, as well as design and fashion choices. With strong interest in promoting textile manufacturing and enhancing the utility and performance of textiles, efforts have been initiated by academia and government researchers to …
March 26, 2018
From raw materials to manufacturing processes, the word “textile” takes on new meanings. Textile technology is undergoing a revolution, with innovative structures, raw materials and manufacturing platforms creating new fabrics that defy old-school definitions. Introductory textile science classes taught us that textiles were materials that could be woven, knit, crocheted, knotted or felted from yarns …
March 12, 2018
Manufacturers are finding new ways to enhance product performance with textiles. As the demands made on textiles have increased, the nature of what is defined as “textile” has greatly expanded, often including non-textiles or treating them in a textile manner. Hybrids that bring together different materials and processes can offer the benefit of conventional textiles …
February 26, 2018
Testing is a complex and critical part of the manufacturing process for protective and occupational gear. It may be impossible to guarantee personal protective equipment (PPE) in extreme circumstances, but today’s testing standards can offer proven performance for PPE, occupational gear and equipment, and the fabrics they incorporate. Following an industry-standard testing process is critical …
February 12, 2018
NASA needs textile manufacturing partners to support the success of future missions. While NASA still has its sights set on a Mars mission in the 2030s, a more imminent project is in the works. The Deep Space Gateway is a joint project between the U.S. and Russia to build a miniature space station in lunar …
The event offers opportunities for collaboration and discussion of industry challenges. The U.S. Dept. of Commerce and the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) will co-host the Smart Fabrics Summit in April 24, 2018, in Washington, D.C. The day-long event will take place at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. The Summit is designed …
January 22, 2018
From small startups to global corporations, academia and business forge alliances. Just days ago, VF Corp. and North Carolina State University (NC State) announced a strategic, multi-year partnership to “support student development at NC State and advance apparel and textiles innovation within VF,” the company says. It will also bring $1 million to the campus …
January 8, 2018
Centers for innovation offer new opportunities for collaborative work. Over the past year there has been noticeable growth globally in the number of innovation centers. The textile industry is grappling with a pace of technological change across all areas, from farming practices and manufacturing equipment to fiber development and retail models. Any one of these …
Sustainability is a way of doing business, and certification systems can support the effort. “Sustainable practice in simple terms means looking after workers, using quality materials, minimizing waste and making fair margins.” This statement from the Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) does indeed put the topic in simple terms, which is …
December 20, 2017
IPC committee seeks comments on e-textiles industry standard. In July 2017, IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries) hosted the first web meeting of the IPC E-textiles Materials Subcommittee. Formed by volunteers from the e-textiles community, they had approached IPC with interest in developing industry standards for e-textiles. IPC was chosen because it is a developer of …