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“Alternative” fabrics: Biofabrics made from plant sources

July 1st, 2023

The search for bio-based alternative fabrics, an important tenet of sustainability, is top of mind for fiber and fabric manufacturers these days. The companies featured here illustrate some of the different approaches that are being taken to reduce carbon, improve sustainability and deliver on the promise of more earth-friendly products without compromising the level of […]

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Making cotton behave more like synthetic fibers

February 1st, 2022

Most performance fabrics used in athletic clothing, such as Spandex, are made from synthetic fibers—plastic, essentially—but Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), has found an alternative to synthetic fabrics. NFW’s Clarus performance cotton textile can be used for clothing. The fabric is made from cotton that has been treated to partially break down the organic material and […]

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Natural Fiber Welding named a “Technology Pioneer”

September 1st, 2021

A 2021 World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer, National Fiber Welding Inc. develops technologies based on the sustainable use of plants and natural fibers to create beautiful, durable goods and textiles. Photo: National Fiber Welding Inc. Natural Fiber Welding Inc. (NFW), Peoria, Ill., is one of 100 promising companies named 2021 Technology Pioneers by the World […]

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Sustainable shoes to be made from ‘Plant Leather’

May 1st, 2021

Sustainable footwear brand Allbirds Inc. has invested $2 million in the startup Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) with plans to use its plant-based leather in Allbirds shoe. Ecotextile News reports that NFW has created a special version of its Mirum leather alternative called Plant Leather, which has been fine-tuned for the footwear company. Plant Leather is […]

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