FibrXL has announced the first bio-based HMPE fiber available for customers, the bio-based Dyneema fibre. This represents a first step in realising FibrXL’s goal to create a more sustainable future in the technical textile industry.
FibrXL is convinced that the technical textile industry needs to take action now to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals within ten years, and in August this year organised a hackathon that marked the start of their ambitious and holistic approach towards a brighter and greener future, Project Helix.
“We need to take our joint responsibility to improve the circularity of the products we sell. We need the support of all industry partners to make a first step towards a greener world,” said Marcel Alberts, managing director of FibrXL Performance.
Together with industry partners covering the complete value chain from yarn spinners, manufacturers, logistic partners, recycling companies and related authorities they shared experiences, insights and visions to jointly shape the future conditions to stay successful in business.
DSM Protective Materials is the first producer ever launching a bio-based ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibre (branded as Dyneema) using a by-product from the wood pulp industry as a sustainable resource to produce renewable ethylene feedstock. Based on the mass balance approach the bio-based fibre is manufactured in such a way that the final product is identical to the fossil-based yarn.
“This means zero compromises on quality, characteristics, and performance,” said FibrXL Performance sales director Giovanni Henssen.
“As of October 1st, we have Dyneema SK99 and SK78 available for our customers. FibrXL is fully committed to a sustainable future and supports DSM’s ambition converting the Dyneema portfolio into a bio-based source.”
Olivier Janin, VP marketing & sales at DSM Protective Materials commented that this is the next step in driving the industry’s transition from conventional to renewable resources with bio-based Dyneema fibre.
“Bio-based Dyneema fibre will help our partners and customers further reduce their carbon footprint while continuing to rely on the same trusted performance of the world’s strongest fibre,” he said.
“It’s great to see how our partner FibrXL is taking its responsibility towards a more sustainable future in the textile industry by initiating Project Helix and converting their portfolio to more sustainable products.”
