Study evaluates alternative face coverings

January 24, 2022  |  In the Industry

Texas Tech researchers have authored a new study to evaluate the effectiveness of alternative facial coverings in offering protection against COVID-19 transmission. During personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages, it has been necessary for people to utilize materials already at their disposal t…
Registration for Smart Fabrics Summit 2022 opens

December 13, 2021  |  In the Industry

Registration is now open for the Smart Fabrics Summit 2022, which will be held at North Carolina State University (NC State), Raleigh, N.C. March 28-29. This event offers education, product showcases, facility tours and networking opportunities.  Speakers currently scheduled include:  Dr. …
Current high cotton prices will likely continue

December 13, 2021  |  In the Industry

by Seshadri Ramkumar Strong cotton demand continues to drive its highest price in a decade. At the recent 79th plenary session, “Fortifying the Cotton Supply Chain: New Approaches to New Challenges,” of the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), this was an important topic of discu…
Building better alliances

November 22, 2021  |  In the Industry

The pandemic underscored the importance of maintaining strong business relationships.  by Janet Preus   The plenary luncheon session at IFAI Expo’s Advanced Textiles Conference brought together a panel of speakers united in a single message about the importance of collaboration in advancing…
International Achievement Awards showcased at IFAI Expo

November 8, 2021  |  In the Industry

Projects and products in industrial fabrics markets were recognized with 2021 International Achievement Awards, showcased in a special area on the show floor at IFAI Expo recently in Nashville. Projects in advanced textiles showed the scope of products and industries served in this market area.&nbsp…
Five universities team up to design futuristic materials

October 25, 2021  |  In the Industry

Megan Valentine, a professor of mechanical engineering and co-director of the California NanoSystems Institute at the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), has been awarded a $1.8 million collaborative grant by the National Science Foundation to design and create next-generation materials …
Coal ash fiber company launches fundraising campaign

September 13, 2021  |  In the Industry

GCS Fibers, an environmentally friendly manufacturer based in Virginia, announces the launch of an Indiegogo fundraising campaign for its growth in the U.S. and international markets. The company’s patented technology produces high quality, non-toxic mineral fiber through repurposing coal ash. GCS…
New body armor offers female soldiers a better fit

August 9, 2021  |  In the Industry

An NPR report described the personal experience of Maj. Melissa Elledge, deployed to combat zones twice when she had to wear body armor designed for male soldiers. This armor’s failing for female soldiers is not just uncomfortable, it’s potentially dangerous; bad fit created gaps at the arm open…
Soft automotive top stands up to extreme cold

July 26, 2021  |  In the Industry

To demonstrate the resilience of the Lexus LC Convertible under extreme weather conditions, Toyota Motor Europe (TME) recently froze the vehicle at – 18 C (-40 F). While in deep freeze at the Millbrook Cold Weather Chamber, the convertible was outfitted with a high-performance Sonnenland…
AR Tech products support Delta IV Heavy rocket launch

July 12, 2021  |  In the Industry

When a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV Heavy rocket launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base recently, it was carrying the NROL-82 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). AR Tech, a division of A&R Tarpaulins Inc., Fontana, Calif., provided essential products in support of thi…