Flammability codes: the basics
May 8th, 2015
Knowing what to ask and why can help fabricators sort out the complexities of FR codes and standards. Complying with flammability and fire resistance codes can be challenging for fabricators in meeting with the applicable codes to properly advise their clients. An FR rating measures the flammability of a fabric when exposed to specific sources […]
Performance driven
December 10th, 2013
Fabrics for sports apparel and gear match demanding expectations and show continued market growth. Whether participating in an ultramarathon or exploring the arctic poles, serious athletes need the same thing in their apparel and gear: comfort and protection. Fabric technologies are delivering above and beyond these goals, helping to serve the extreme-sport mentality that has […]
Weather or not—fabric measures up
December 1st, 2012
With a great selection of materials available, fabric structures adapt to different climates and project needs Trying to find the right solution for the right application in a particular climate is generally foremost in architectural work. The issues to be addressed in developing building envelopes or employing tension membranes are no different than using more […]
The growing nonwovens market
November 1st, 2012
The increasing versatility and functionality of nonwoven fabrics is expanding their market reach with new technologies and new applications The constant drive to bring costs down and performance up has made nonwovens a key player in the textile industry, penetrating markets traditionally dominated by woven fabrics. Sustainability, durability, versatile functionality and cost-efficient production are all […]
Incredibly smart textiles
October 1st, 2011
As understanding evolves and resources become available, interactive textiles could be headed into the mainstream Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak may be fiction, but it could be a reality in the not-too-distant future. That may be a matter of physics, but perhaps a smart textile will help it along. Who would have thought a decade ago […]
Nanotechnology: It’s getting bigger
January 2nd, 2011
Breaking the barriers to accepting—and selling—nano innovations in specialty fabrics markets There has been increasing momentum in recent years in the use of nanotechnology to provide textile products with new and enhanced properties, such as stain and water repellence, flame retardance, antimicrobial properties, UV protection, abrasion resistance, odor absorption and insect repellence. With such wide-ranging […]