Extraordinary workwear
August 7th, 2017
VR and AR industries offer high-tech solutions for demanding work environments There was a time when “workwear” meant basically suits and coveralls, but the sector is now recognised as covering a broad field that stretches from spacesuits to medical workers. Providing protection, comfort and identification are standard, but it is challenging for the textile industry […]
Sustainable solutions in antimicrobials
July 24th, 2017
With environmental concerns about traditional treatments, the industry works to offer more eco-friendly options. Antimicrobial properties are fast becoming an expected treatment in textiles for applications that range from hospital drapes and linen, to contract and domestic textiles, as well as clothing. While offering protection from germs is a positive, there has been some disquiet […]
The new nonwovens
June 12th, 2017
Improvements in performance include more eco-friendly materials and processes. The global market for nonwovens is expected to grow from its 2015 level of $2.9 billion to $8 billion by 2022, according to Stratistics Market Research Consulting, specialists in global cross-sector market research. Existing market sectors such as health, hygiene and automotive applications are expanding, and […]
Thermal regulation heats up
May 22nd, 2017
Refined materials and improved processes impact climate control applications. New developments in climate control for technical textiles are seeing the emergence of more refined materials offering enhanced possibilities in a range of industries from automotive to architecture. At the TechTextil trade show in Frankfurt, Germany, in May, a number of these innovations were showcased, reflecting […]
IP for innovators
April 24th, 2017
Wearable technology faces rising legal questions. Wearable technology is impacting the college and professional sports industry at every level from fitness training to spectator engagement. With the trend set to increase over the next five years, it is worthwhile to ask, “What could this mean for intellectual property (IP) and data ownership?" Consider the audience […]
Better together
March 10th, 2017
Collaborative efforts support growth in the smart textiles industry. The more high tech an industry is, the greater the range of expertise it may need. Advanced textiles, particularly smart materials, are a prime example of this. Textiles often undergo a variety of processes requiring specialized skills and equipment, so collaboration is essential to the industry. […]
What “going circular” means for the apparel and textile industry
February 10th, 2017
The apparel and footwear industry is forecast to generate double-digit growth to 2020 according to business analysts McKinsey & Co. One of the challenges is reconciling this growth with sustainability initiatives. As this report states it, “Sustainability and rapid business growth are not compatible; to pretend otherwise would be disingenuous.” The solution proposed is an […]