Grandtek Asia to show dyeable staple polypropylene fiber
October 23, 2012 - Germany
Three new product ranges will be presented by Grandtek Asia at the upcoming PERFORMANCE DAYS in Munich: an eucalyptus- and seaweed-based fiber with numerous benefits for human skin and a new range of environmentally-friendly propylene fibers that offer great advantages in design and economics.
Taiwan’s expert in developing and producing high performance sportswear fabrics is committed to offering innovative products that have a lighter environmental footprint.
Thus the company recently launched SeaCell, which consists of eucalyptus and seaweed fibers. This composition as well as the fiber structure facilitates the exchange of nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron and vitamin E between skin and fabric, which positively affects the health of the wearer. The SeaCell range is extended by SeaCell Active, a silver-containing and antibacterial fiber.
Furthermore, Grandtek is set to introduce dyeable polypropylene in Munich. This innovative polypropylene fiber can be dyed with standard dyeing processes of polyester fibers, using commonly available polyester high energy disperse dyes, but requires a much lower temperature. CoolVisions polypropylene fibers outperform all other dyeable fibers in low-moisture-absorption tests.
In addition, garments made from polypropylene tend to have a high moisture-vapor-transmission rate. At the same time, the mechanical characteristics of polypropylene fibers are not affected when the fabric is wet, which is an inherent advantage compared to fibers like rayon, which can lose a substantial amount of strength. Polypropylene fibers are among the lightest of all commercial fibers and are inherently softer than traditional polypropylene fibers.
The third innovation, Grandtek will be showcasing during the PERFORMANCE DAYS is Sorona, a dyeable staple polypropylene fiber with excellent environmental key data. The production of Sorona requires up to 30% less energy and reduces CO2 or Greenhouse gas emissions by up to 63%, compared to the production of an equal amount of traditional nylon 6. Furthermore, Sorona helps to reduce the dependency on oil and petrochemicals by using ingredients made from renewable resources (resources able to be re-grown in one year). Sorona consists of 37% renewably sourced ingredients by weight.
The fibers are very suitable for swimwear because the fabric is UV- and chlorine resistant and does not pill. Sorona dyes easily and can be printed beautifully in bright, bold colors. The fabric offers an exceptional softness and flattering drape and is very easy to clean.