Tech Textile 2024

Last month's research trip to Techtextil in Frankfurt, Germany, was a great eye opener into the current traction being made within performance and in particular how we can redefine performance fabrics that align with planet-centered design approaches.

My head is officially full of inspiration after two days of impromptu chat and discoveries. Here’s a brief download of my brain from the trip:

- Applications of craft within para amid fibers are being explored using techniques such as tufting, in comparison to weaving and knitting methods traditionally manufactured with these fibers.

- Sustainable awareness is gaining huge traction within PPE and other high-performance level fabrics. Natural fibres are replacing petroleum-based fibres wherever possible without affecting performance. Also, dope dying is on the rise to reduce water consumption during the dye process.

- Recycled PPE fabric is becoming increasingly popular, with meta aramids being the most common. Although performance may vary after recycling, there is still an opportunity for lower-performing fabrics to utilise this recycled process.

- New developments within AI-based platforms support companies with data-driven inputs to understand the transparency of all the materials and systems used throughout their companies supply chain.

Below are my newly discovered top start up's:

NOOSA™ - Bio-newable fiber supplier 🌿 https://noosafiber.com/

NUVI - 100% Biobased coatings and materials manufacturer 👩‍🔬 https://www.nuvi.earth/

Tailr - Redefining production systems for the clothing industry 🌐 https://tailr.ai/