The value and limitations of medical device master files

Nov. 1, 2019  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

by Elaine Duncan Medical device master files, known as MAFs, have value for textile contract manufacturers and the medical device developer in many ways, but there are some practical limitations. Most medical device manufacturers that incorporate a medical textile into their products will seek a kno…
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Geosynthetic applications in flood abatement

Nov. 1, 2019  |  Geosynthetics, Markets

Geosynthetics offer cost-effective strategies for mitigating or even eliminating severe flooding in coastal regions.  By Robert M. and George R. Koerner On September 8, 1900, a Category 4 hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, which is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, averaging about 8 feet (2.4 meters)…
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Committing to e-textile standards

Oct. 1, 2019  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

The European market influences open international standards for e-textiles.  by Chris Jorgensen In the spring of 2017, companies representing the global e-textiles community formed the IPC D-70 E-Textiles Committee to develop IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries®) international stand…
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Selling the energy efficiency benefits of fabric

Oct. 1, 2019  |  Markets

Efforts to better market the energy-saving properties of shade products can help consumers and builders make more informed decisions—and move the industry forward. By Holly Eamon It’s easy for people to agree on the need to better regulate temperatures and air quality—and save money—when hea…
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Partnerships make a difference in bringing textiles to market

Sep. 1, 2019  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

Partnerships along the supply chain support new products and applications.  by Marie O’Mahony British entrepreneur Richard Branson once said, “There are no quick wins in business; it takes years to become an overnight success.” This is certainly true for the development of innovative new text…
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Protecting professionals with slash-resistant clothing

Sep. 1, 2019  |  Markets

Slash-resistant clothing can reduce the risk of knife injuries and lacerations, keeping frontline professionals safer.  By Robert Kaiser Throughout history, people have protected themselves with specially designed and constructed garments. From furs and chain mail to leather, metals and high-te…
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Channeling nature through fabric at Allianz Field

Aug. 1, 2019  |  Markets

Dramatic Allianz Field soccer stadium in Minnesota takes its cues from Lake Superior and aurora borealis. By Bruce N. Wright, AIA Soccer is an internationally loved sport for many reasons, but one draw has to be the fluid physicality of the athletes. The new Allianz Field soccer stadium in St. Paul,…
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E-textiles in health monitoring

Jul. 1, 2019  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

Progress, potential and challenges for next-generation applications.  by Debra Cobb Among the many benefits promised by the smart fabric revolution has been the “consumerization of health care.” Wearables are enabling the remote monitoring of a wide range of chronic medical conditions, from…
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Creativity CUBED

Jul. 1, 2019  |  Markets

Electra’s inventive flat-top temporary fabric structure helps it keep pace with Dubai’s fast-evolving event industry. By Holly Eamon In a world where customers increasingly expect their demands to be met instantaneously, companies that don’t prioritize active listening—or engagement—risk b…
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