In the dynamic and global textile fiber industry with its various manufacturing processes and end-uses, news and information is breaking on a daily basis. International Fiber Journal is tracking stories relevant to our industry from manmade to natural to bio-based fibers, innovations in nonwoven, woven, braided and technical textiles, technologies for additives, bonding, coatings and polymers, and applications from apparel to hygiene to transportation, and more. Here we will post news stories relevant to textile fibers and their downstream applications on an ongoing basis. Please check back for regular updates. If you have news that you feel should be added to this summary report, please email it to Ken Norberg at ken@ifj.com.
Most recent update: December 05, 2025
Nonwovens Institute, Oerlikon Nonwoven to Cooperate on Meltblown Tech
The Nonwoven Institute (NWI) at North Carolina State University and Oerlikon Nonwoven will be collaborating in the field of meltblown laboratory technology in the future. This was announced by Professor Raoul Farer, Executive Deputy Director of the NWI and Professor at the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University, and Dr. Ingo Mählmann, Sales Director Nonwoven at Oerlikon Neumag, during this year’s ITMA Asia and CITME in Singapore.
The first step in the new cooperation is an investment in the hycuTEC hydrocharging system from Oerlikon Nonwoven; the institute will integrate the unit into its existing laboratory configuration. This will enable the NWI to operate a state-of-the-art meltblown hydrocharging laboratory in the future, facilitating the development of new products – primarily, but not exclusively, in the field of air filtration media. The advantage for North American Oerlikon Nonwoven customers and prospects is that they will be able to test hycuTEC technology and carry out their own meltblown product developments in a creative, innovation-oriented environment.
Oerlikon Nonwoven’s patented hycuTEC system is a real innovation for the filtration industry. Using a special spray mist of demineralized water, the system enables the economic production of highly efficient electret-media with an impressive filtration efficiency of 99.99% at low pressure-drop. The hycuTEC hydrocharging technology was honored with the Edana Filtrex Innovation Award in 2023.
Ahlstrom Invests in North American Filtration
Ahlstrom, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials, announces a strategic investment to upgrade the existing Taylorville, IL (USA) line to enhance its capability to produce advanced synthetic filter materials.
The upgraded line is expected to begin operations in the final quarter of 2026, enabling customers to meet rising demand for sustainable and efficient filtration solutions.
Synthetic filtration materials are essential for high-performance applications across demanding industrial environments and transportation applications. Materials deliver superior filtration through higher efficiency, greater dust-holding capacity, and exceptional durability—even under the most demanding operating conditions.
The line will produce materials with up to 100% synthetic fiber composition, including optional fiber blends of glass and/or cellulose. It supports both, single and dual-layer filter material designs and includes saturation and corrugation capability, ensuring flexibility and consistent performance across a broad range of filtration applications.
DyeCoo Textile Systems Enters Bankruptcy
Dutch company DyeCoo, based in Hoofddorp and known for its sustainable textile dyes, has gone out of business. The company received millions from IKEA and Nike, among others, but had been suffering losses for years. DyeCoo Textile Systems was founded in 2008 by researchers from Delft. They devised a way to dye polyester using CO₂ instead of water.
The company’s goal was to make the textile sector more sustainable. The textile industry is one of the most polluting in the world. Dyeing fabrics in particular causes a lot of pollution, because it requires a lot of water and chemicals.
While the concept of DyeCoo seemed promising, the company was declared bankrupt last week.
DyeCoo’s dyeing machines used CO₂ instead of water and chemicals. This allowed polyester fabrics and yarns to be dyed without consuming clean water and without leaving behind polluted wastewater. The CO₂ used comes from other industries and is reused. The system is almost completely closed: around 95% of the CO₂ is reused.
European Commission Imposes Registration on PET Spunbond from China
On 15 September 2025, the European Commission opened an Anti-dumping (AD) investigation into imports of PET spunbond from China following a complaint by the EU industry (AD738).
On 2 December 2025, the Commission made imports of PET spunbond from China subject to registration. This is an important milestone in the proceedings.
It means that as of 3 December 2025 all users must register their imports with the customs authorities who are carefully monitoring the import flows from now on.
Having made those imports subject to registration allows the Commission to impose definitive AD duties with retroactive effect.
The EU industry welcomes this step and thanks the European Commission for its efforts to re-establish a level playing field on the EU market.
www.edana.org
INDA, NWI Announce 2026 Nonwovens Short Course Lineup
INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, and The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) at North Carolina State University announced their 2026 lineup of professional development courses designed to equip industry professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving nonwovens sector.
Covering the full nonwovens value chain — from raw materials to processes to finished products — the courses combine in-person instruction with hands-on training in NWI’s state-of-the-art production and testing laboratories on NC State’s Centennial Campus.
Led by veteran instructors and supported by guest lecturers from across the industry, the INDA/NWI programs deliver technical expertise and practical business insights not available elsewhere.
2026 professional development schedule
- Elementary Nonwovens: Feb. 10–11, June 16–17, Oct. 6–7
- Intermediate Nonwovens: March 3–6, July 21–24, Oct. 13–16
- Nonwoven Product Development & Innovation: March 24–27
- Meltblown Technology: April 28–30
- Fiber and Filament Extrusion Fundamentals: June 2–4
- Carded Nonwoven Technology: Aug. 11–13
- Spunbond Technology: Sept. 22–24
“INDA is excited to continue our partnership with NWI to deliver world-class training programs for nonwovens industry professionals,” said Matt O’Sickey, Ph.D., INDA’s director of education and technical affairs. “Our joint mission is to provide the highest-quality content that blends technical excellence with business intelligence, supporting the professional development needs of today’s workforce.”
“The 2026 professional development schedule addresses the core nonwoven platforms and technology concepts with an outstanding mix of technical depth and practical application,” said Raoul Farer, executive deputy director of NWI. “The program is designed to benefit both seasoned professionals and those new to nonwovens.”
Navis TubeTex Announces U.S. Partnership with Icomatex
Navis TubeTex, a global leader in advanced dyeing and finishing machinery solutions, announced a new partnership with Icomatex, a respected European manufacturer of high-quality stenters and textile finishing equipment. Under this agreement, Navis TubeTex will exclusively represent the Icomatex stenter line in the United States.
This strategic addition enhances Navis TubeTex’s ability to serve a broader range of customers and applications while reaffirming the company’s long-standing commitment to its iconic Marshall & Williams (M&W) brand.
With this partnership, Navis TubeTex now offers two complementary stenter platforms—each serving a distinct segment of the market:
- Marshall & Williams Stenters
Known for their unmatched robustness, high production speeds, and decades-long reputation for durability, M&W machines remain the preferred solution for customers with the most demanding performance and throughput requirements. The M&W product line is not changing, not being replaced, and continues to be a core strategic offering for Navis TubeTex. - Icomatex Stenters
Designed with modern engineering, excellent energy efficiency, and an attractive price-to-performance ratio, the Icomatex range allows Navis TubeTex to address a larger portion of the U.S. market—particularly customers seeking high quality and advanced features at highly competitive investment levels.
Hygienix™ 2025 Showcased Absorbent Hygiene Innovation, Sustainability, and Collaboration
Hygienix™ 2025 brought together hundreds of industry leaders to explore advancements in the absorbent hygiene and personal care markets during the 11th annual Hygienix™ event, held November 17-20 in Orlando, Florida. INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced Confitex Technology as the winner of the 2025 Hygienix™ Innovation Award™ for its groundbreaking Washable Nonwoven Sanitary Pads, recognizing exceptional innovation in absorbent hygiene materials, products, or technologies.
2025 Hygienix Innovation Award winner:
Confitex Technology – Washable Nonwoven Sanitary Pads
Making single-use reusable: As regulators, retailers and consumers move toward a greener future, a new category of washable AHPs is creating opportunities for the nonwoven industry. Confitex Technology has created and patented world’s first washable nonwoven sanitary pads designed for sustainability and scalability without the need for SAPs. Confitex Technology is leading Innovator and Private Label supplier. Their purpose is to transform the lives of millions and reduce the Earth’s landfill by creating the ultimate reusable AHPs.
Finalists Dukane – Curved Leg Elastic (CLE) and ZymoChem – BAYSE™ were also recognized for their significant contributions to advancing performance, sustainability, and consumer well-being in absorbent hygiene.
“The innovations presented this year demonstrate remarkable creativity and a clear focus on improving lives while advancing environmental stewardship,” said Tony Fragnito, INDA President & CEO. “The level of collaboration and innovation seen at Hygienix continues to raise the bar for our industry.”
Networking and Collaboration Across the Hygiene Value Chain
The 2025 Hygienix™ Conference fostered meaningful connections through multiple networking formats, including:
- Women in Nonwovens (WiN) Luncheon – Encouraging mentorship, leadership, and collaboration among women in the industry.
- Lightning Talks – High-energy, five-minute presentations from exhibiting companies.
- Evening Receptions & Exhibits – Showcasing breakthrough technologies and supplier capabilities across absorbent hygiene.
- Lunch Around with Olivia Ahn, MD, Co-Founder, Planera – Sharing her start-up journey and sustainability vision.
- Welcome Reception – An informal kickoff Monday evening connecting industry peers and innovators.
Program Content: Insights Driving the Future of Absorbent Hygiene
The conference featured a comprehensive technical program and three Pre-Conference Workshops on absorption systems, menstrual care innovation, and baby and infant care market dynamics.
Throughout the week, attendees explored presentations and panel discussions on:
- Circularity and sustainable materials, including bio-based fibers, PFAS-free chemistries, and flushable packaging.
- Regulatory, testing, and consumer trends shaping product design and market growth.
- New applications such as pet care, eczema-friendly testing, and private label innovation.
Speakers represented a global cross-section of the value chain, including Absorbent Hygiene Insights, BAHP, Cycleology, Euromonitor International, Kuraray Europe, Lenzing AG, ProVerde Environmental, SmartSolve, Soane Materials, Trützschler Nonwovens, Woolchemy NZ, and many others.
Industry Momentum and Strong Attendance
This year’s event was well-received by all attendees, drawing global participation from brand owners, converters, material and equipment suppliers, and entrepreneurs committed to advancing performance and sustainability in absorbent hygiene.
“Hygienix continues to be the must-attend event for anyone driving innovation in the absorbent hygiene sector,” said Matt O’Sickey, PhD, INDA Director of Education & Technical Affairs. “From start-ups to multinationals, the insights and connections made here have a lasting impact on our industry’s progress.”
Gildan Completes the Acquisition of HanesBrands
Gildan Activewear Inc. announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of HanesBrands Inc., creating a global apparel leader.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. By welcoming HanesBrands into the Gildan family, we are doubling our scale, combining iconic brands with our world-class, low-cost, vertically integrated platform, and unlocking a powerful engine for innovation and growth. Together, our complementary strengths in activewear and innerwear, across channels and geographies, position us to better serve our customers and deliver sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders”, said Glenn J. Chamandy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gildan. “Our priority now is to execute a seamless, collaborative integration that enables us to fully capture the value of our expanded platform and deliver at least $200 million in run-rate cost synergies, as announced on August 13, 2025.”
Milliken & Company and Numat Technologies Announce Strategic Partnership
Numat Technologies, Inc., the global leader in Nobel Prize-winning metal-organic framework (MOF) materials, and Milliken & Company, a global leader in manufacturing and material science, announced a strategic supply relationship to deliver next-generation protective fabric solutions for defense, first responder, and industrial customers. The integration of Milliken’s advanced textiles with Numat’s Sentinel® MOF technology platform will create functional, reactive, and self-decontaminating fabrics that enhance protection, breathability, and comfort in extreme environments.
“Our work with Numat is about bold innovation and real-world impact,” said Halsey Cook, president and CEO at Milliken. “Together, we are setting a new standard in protection – delivering textile solutions that not only help safeguard lives but redefine what’s possible in our industry.”
These MOF-enabled textile solutions are non-PFAS and will be manufactured in the United States, reflecting both organizations’ commitment to material innovation, environmental stewardship, and a strengthened U.S. industrial base. Key customers for this innovative chemical protection solution platform include chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense professionals and first responders seeking non-PFAS alternatives to legacy protective technologies.
“This partnership represents a generational leap forward in protective fabrics and suits,” said Ben Hernandez, CEO of Numat Technologies. “By combining Numat’s highly advanced MOF technology platform with Milliken’s textile technology and scale, we’re delivering sustainable, high-performance solutions that protect those who protect us.”
Future product development will include cutting-edge signature management and enhanced concealment textile technologies, integrating CBRN defense with adaptive battlefield camouflage performance.
“We’re not just supplying advanced materials — we’re driving American innovation to shape the future of protective textiles,” said Marcio Manique, SVP and Managing Director for Milliken’s apparel business. “Partnering with Numat strengthens our leadership in core markets as we expand CBRN solutions that set the standard for performance and protection.”
AFFOA Launches Product Accelerator to Advance U.S. Textile
Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) announced the launch of the third round of its Product Accelerator for Functional Fabrics program (PAFF 3.0), expanding access to no-cost technical support, pilot development capabilities and product advancement resources for U.S. textile manufacturers, startups and innovators. The program is designed to accelerate commercialization of advanced fabric technologies while strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity and competitiveness.
The PAFF program gives participants access to AFFOA’s engineering expertise, testing infrastructure, pilot-scale textile equipment and product development support at no cost, enabling companies to bring new products to market faster and with reduced technical and financial risk.
The newest round of the program broadens its scope to include accelerated development in four priority areas:
- Digital engineering and manufacturing
- Textile manufacturing automation
- Manufacturing scale-up
- Advancement of TRL/MRL for next-generation fibers and fabrics
These focus areas are aligned with national priorities in reshoring, technical workforce development and accelerating domestic deployment of high-value textile technologies.
