In a recently conducted textile symposium, the discussion was on the evolution of performance textiles as a significant driver of growth in the industry. The emphasis was on the ever-evolving need for different textiles and the scope of their use. Carol Clemens of DSM Dyneema, a global science-based organization, spoke about the properties of what is believed to be the world’s strongest fiber. The discussion was on how this fiber is the next big thing for the industry.
Performance fabrics are needed for several applications as they provide functional qualities such as cut resistance, abrasion resistance, thermoregulation and an overall cooling impact. In view of this, Clemens showed how their recently launched fabric is a good option as a performance textile.
Features of the newly developed textile
The Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMwPE) is the chemical name of a newly launched textile fabric. Some important features of this product include:
· Lighter than water
· Quick drying
· 15 times as strong as steel and four times as strong as polyester
· High cut resistance
Because of these properties, the textile fabric is nowadays touted as an ideal fabric for athletic clothing.
Uses of the performance textile
The fiber has been used by athletes, most notably as technical cycling shorts for Olympic cycling teams. It is now recognized as a fabric that provides better protection for athletes while they practice or perform. However, Clemens revealed in the symposium that DSM is working to make the fabric useful for everyday use.
To this end, DSM is looking to introduce these performance fibers into denim. The company has already started to develop protective denim clothing for various sports, such as skateboarding. The idea is to create a fabric which incorporates the high performance clothing element, and at the same time, allow a consumer to wear fashionable or popular clothing.
Cotton reinforced with 10% of this performance textile improves breaking strength and tear resistance considerably. When blended with this fabric, the performance strength of denim improved by up to 70%. Thus, it can be a preferable option for athletes to wear for lesser intensity sports such as skateboarding.
Updates on the textile industry such as the development of a new textile as a viable fabric for everyday wear should interest professionals and business owners of the industry. One should always keep themselves posted about these developments all over the world. The most convenient way of doing so is to subscribe to an industry-specific news and analysis portal.