Kingsport, Tenn.-based Eastman Chemical Co. recently launched Avra™ Performance Fibers, which are manufactured using proprietary spinning technology to produce an ultra-thin polyester fiber. The Avra fibers are extruded with a removable binder polymer that can be washed away after the weaving or knitting process. The small, ribbon-like fibers that are left behind result in a silky fabric with soft hand and advanced moisture-management performance, according to the company.
Avra is produced in collaboration with Unifi Inc. in Yadkinville, N.C. The fiber’s development required a plant expansion that created jobs in the region. “Combining the technology and quality-driven expertise of Eastman and Unifi will help provide the industry with the next level of performance-enhancing fibers,” said Mark McNeill, vice president of technology and business development, Unifi.
September/October 2016
