HOUSTON — December 6, 2022 — Fibre52™ Cotton has unveiled a patent-pending technology to revolutionize the way cotton is prepared and dyed, substantially minimizing the use of water and energy, and eliminating harsh chemicals while also offering a more durable and vastly improved natural-performance cotton fiber to rival synthetics.
The traditional cotton treatment method, used for nearly 80 years, has involved hazardous chemicals and high heat that weaken the cotton fibers. Fibre52 cotton’s licensed process replaces harmful chemicals with bio-active products and uses lower levels of heat in the pretreatment process, saving up to 50 percent in water, energy use and process cycle time. By including Fibre52’s dye technology, the cotton retains its natural properties and allows moisture to be transferred away from the skin, as opposed to the normal clingy feel of cotton. Fibre52 cotton serves as a smart moisture and thermal regulator, forming a layer of dry air next to the skin and ranking it high on the comfort scale.
“Fibre52’s patent-pending technology combines the comfort of cotton with strength properties and moisture-management performance much better than poly-anything does, so you can be comfortable in a wider range of temperatures,” said Laura Thornquist, president of Fibre52. “This inexpensive, eco-friendly alternative technology is easily transferable, allowing textile manufacturers to utilize current machinery with no additional capital investments and repeatable in resultant coloration and shade of material with no need to change dye recipes.”
Fibre52 underwent a rigorous series of tests, overseen by NCSU and SGS to prove performance functionality. The results rank Fibre52 high on dynamic cooling and drying rate tests as well as high marks for low pilling and improved tear strength. The tests revealed Fibre52 cotton provides a steady heat flux and a short drying time, proving the wearer would feel more comfortable in hot and cold temperatures due to the slow change of the micro-climate.
“For decades, polyester and cotton have been in a race to be the fabric that contains the best properties of synthetic and natural fibers,” said Harrie Schoots, President of the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists. “Fibre52 gives a big lead to the cotton team in this race to produce an ultra-performance fabric, with no treatments, that brings the best of both worlds: optimal continuous comfort in a breathable natural fabric that manages moisture and dries quickly.”
Fibre52 also represents a significant step forward in sustainability for both the manufacturing process and the fashion industry. The new method replaces harmful chemicals with bio-active products, uses up to 50-percent less water and electricity, and saves up to two hours in the dyeing process. With its performance qualities, Fibre52 additionally makes it easier to replace petroleum-based fibers and fabrics and advances the circular economy with a recyclable fabric that lasts longer.
Posted December 6, 2022
