VIEWPOINT Necessity is Shaping the Future

This timeless adage continues to resonate deeply in today’s rapidly changing fiber industry. From sustainability to technological breakthroughs, the pressing challenges of our times are catalyzing innovative solutions across the global fiber supply chain. In this issue, we explore some of the factors driving these advancements, and shaping everything from protective equipment (PPE) to the latest in fiber microelectronics.

One of the most compelling areas ripe for innovation is in the realm of PPE, particularly in regards to the excess waste it generates. In our exclusive Q&A with Holly Morris by Marie O’Mahony on page 10, we explore the challenges in the push for greener alternatives reshaping the PPE landscape. The environmental impact of the $33 billion disposable protective gear industry is significant – medical textiles account for 14-31% of healthcare waste. To combat this, Morris says, “We need to be looking at whether other methods of laundry are viable, such as polymer bead laundering, which are more effective.”

The theme of necessity driving innovation is also evident in reimagined materials for new fiber applications, such as in the areas of synthetic fibers and raw materials. Adrian Wilson shares, “There has been an acceleration in approaches to the regeneration of synthetic fibers at industrial scale – and especially PET polyester. ... Fantastic work has also continued in developing natural fibers and biopolymers as the raw materials for new circular supply chains, but the growth of such alternatives to PET and other synthetics will only go some way to meeting overall future demand.” Read more on page 14.

On page 19, we publish our annual “innovation roundup,” where we invite in- dustry to share their new developments for the fiber and nonwoven industry. This year, we are pleased to have seven companies highlighting their hard work to offer the supply chain new offerings – BioLogiQ, Cretes, FET, Fibroline, Kyorene, Harper Hygienics S.A., and Papaya.

In advanced textiles, polyolefins play a large role as a hot commodity. On page 29, Geoff Fisher discusses how polyolefins are being used in a wide range of lowcost, high-performance products, such as turf and carpets. Meanwhile, on page 32, Alexander M. Stolyarov explores the exciting potential of fiber-based microelectronics for next-gen fabric systems. And on page 36, Arun Rao examines how nonwoven fabrics are expanding in the automotive sector in India with an exclusive interview with Ankit Desai, Managing Director, of Autotech Nonwovens. As we continue to face global challenges, it is clear that the need for new solutions and technological advancements will shape the future of fibers, filaments, and processing technologies for years to come.

Did you miss this opportunity to share about your innovation or advancement in our innovation roundup? There are more ways to share your story with our vast readership of 16,000+ subscribers. Email me at csmith@inda.org for more details for 2025! Keep innovating!

Caryn Smith Chief Content Officer & Publisher, INDA Media, IFJ