Innovations and ground-breaking inventions in the textile industry are nothing new. The global textile market actually thrives on such developments as they continue to provide new possibilities of better product, improved efficiencies and enhanced productivity—all driven by the cause of sustainability. The application of new technologies and ideas help the entire value chain in the industry resulting in satisfaction of customers and end-users of textile products. The industry which faced tough times during the last two years is not only reviving at an astonishing pace but also showing sparks of buoyancy owing to even faster growing support of advancing technologies. Though there are many companies which have effectively utilised the opportunities offered by technology developments, this feature prominently talks of six companies which innovated some remarkable products and strategies to set new standards for the industry to emulate.

Advansa

ADVANSA has a rich history in developing industrial innovations that facilitate continuous improvement of processes and products. In collaborative R&D activities with operational teams, institutes and universities, it develops and tests a steady stream of innovative and profitable products. The company is focused on development and eco-responsible production of a broad range of specialised technical fibres including short cut fibres for paper and wet laid processes.

In August last year, the company launched ADVA terra – a biodegradable polyester fibre made of 100 per cent recycled feedstock. The ability of polyester to be degraded by microorganisms in biologically active environments helps to reduce the pollution potential of articles containing plastic. ADVA terra fibres originating from 100 per cent post-consumer PET bottles are engineered via proprietary modifications to provide biodegradable capabilities without sacrificing the favourable mechanical properties of PET. The product is available as water dispersible short cut fibre for the paper and wet laid nonwoven industry as well as staple fibre for dry laid nonwovens and tow for the floc industry in various finesse and cut length combinations. This makes it apt for using in production across diverse end-use applications including applications with food contact. The products made from ADVA terra have the same properties as conventional non-biodegradable standard fibres and can be processed just as easily, minimising environmental consequences without sacrificing quality and performance. Additionally, it is suitable for recycling after completing lifecycle which further improves the environmental impact by reduction of waste. Research shows that ADVA terra is expected to biodegrade to 30-60 per cent within 12 months.

Another of ADVANSA’s innovative products is ADVA Blue polyester fibres for the nonwovens industry which prevents plastic waste in the ocean. It is made from Social Plastic as a result of the partnership with the social enterprise Plastic Bank. ADVANSA’s portfolio ‘Made with Social Plastic’ includes staple fibres, short cut fibres and tow which are well suited for various branches of industry such as hygiene and medicine, filtration, automotive, etc.

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