Raw Materials
Calls for restructuring of the global fiber industry
By Geoff Fisher, European Editor
Over the past four decades the German/European manmade fiber industry has weathered many critical situations and has managed to survive. A key reason has been its ability to develop innovation and change management strategies.
Fiber producers are affected by global megatrends such as technological breakthroughs and demographic shifts on the one hand, and increasing protectionism affecting business worldwide on the other.
Acrylic fiber – new life through creativity
Seventy-five years have passed since the invention of acrylic fiber by DuPont scientists in 1941. Described as a “remarkable” fiber that is not damaged by sunlight, this fiber was claimed to have lasting resistance to mildew, high temperatures and even sulfuric acid. Many other features have since been discovered that have increased the product interest and range of applications. Several innovation tools have been used to reinvent the product and increase its lifetime, ensuring its suitability for textiles and technical applications, as well as for carbon fiber production.
Manmade fiber industry expects steady growth
Attendees at the 22nd China International Manmade Fiber Conference (CIMFC) held in Fuzhou in September.
By Jason Chen, China Correspondent
At the 22nd China International Manmade Fiber Conference (CIMFC), held at the beginning of September in Fuzhou (Fujian province), China, experts and executives spoke about advanced materials, fashion trends, testing methods and standards, and investment trends within the industry.
Requirements for customized fiber production: innovative power, flexibility and high quality
Modern manmade fiber products must cater to the growing need of the industry for custom-made products. The materials needed in all applications of the textiles- and nonwoven- industries often require the raw materials employed to possess inherent – and possibly multiple – functions. New products and diminished or polluted resources require new materials.
Conductrol – Sterling Fibers’ acrylic-based conductive fiber
By James Hagerott, President, Sterling Fibers
A variety of antistatic and conductive fiber products have been developed in order to provide antistatic protection and/or static dissipation. Protection from electrostatic discharge is needed for personal comfort, for safety in prevention of explosions in working environments containing explosive dusts and vapors, and for protection of sensitive electronic devices from damage during production and use.