TAGS: Surface Modification Sustainability / Natural Solutions Additives for Packaging
Omya and International Fibres Group (IFG) announce a strategic R&D partnership to explore the incorporation of calcium carbonate within fibers. The two companies will work together using IFG’s Fibres Research Centre in Linz, Austria, to explore new fiber product performance, characteristics and applications which will incorporate Omyafiber®, a specially developed calcium carbonate for fiber and nonwoven applications.
Successful Trials of Masterbatches into PP & PLA Fibers
The two companies will jointly promote their findings into the fibers and nonwovens industry. The collaboration has commenced with successful trials of the incorporation of
Omyafiber® masterbatches into PP and PLA staple fibers, and further polymer types are under consideration to be tested on the pilot line.
Calcium carbonate is being considered as it is a sustainable and renewable raw material, addressing some of the environmental pressures on the fibers industry. Its carbon footprint is approximately 300kg CO
2 per ton of Calcium Carbonate. It can be used in recycled materials and is also recyclable itself. When Omyafiber® is combined with staple fibers, the IFG research and development teams discovered improved haptics, opacity and whiteness.
It can also replace the use of titanium dioxide which has a significantly higher carbon footprint. Due to the high thermal conductivity properties of Omyafiber® in the polymer matrix, it allows for products to be created that have lower sealing / bonding temperatures. Omyafiber® is approved for food contact applications, it does not cause skin sensitivity and is OEKO-TEX® approved for use in apparel.
Simon Riepler, head of Research and Development at IFG said of the collaboration, “
Omya is a well-known name in the industry and we are very happy about our fruitful cooperation. The quality of the calcium carbonate is excellent and we are looking forward bringing this quality into fibers and providing a sustainable product for our customers.”
Marco Viel, vice president Polymers, Group Sales & Marketing at Omya said, “
We are excited about this valuable cooperation with IFG that will significantly accelerate the market introduction of our Omyafiber® solution to the staple fiber market.” The two companies will collaboratively launch their partnership from 14-16 Sept. 2022, with a seminar.
Source: Omya