INDA, the US association of the nonwoven fabrics industry, has announced the three finalists for the 2025 RISE Innovation Award, a highlight of the RISE (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics) technology conference.

 RISE 2025 will take place from October 14-15 at the McKimmon Center, North Carolina State University in Raleigh, when technology scouts, product developers and business leaders from across the nonwovens value chain will gather to discover the latest research, connect with thought leaders and see first-hand the technologies competing for the award.

The three finalists – EsterCycle, Keel Labs and Rockline Industries – will present their new technologies to conference participants on Tuesday afternoon, October 14th and the winner of the award will be announced on Wednesday afternoon, October 15th.

EsterCycle is a low cost and emissions chemical recycling technology that can handle biohazard contamination and break down mixed polyester nonwovens for circulation back into the supply chain.

Hospitals and laboratories generate enormous amounts of PPE nonwoven plastic waste, most of which is incinerated. Polyethylene terephthalate is used extensively in nonwovens, and there is significant interest in using biobased polyesters such as polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoates to reduce the footprint of these essential materials.

Kelsun, developed by Keel Labs, is the world’s first high-performance seaweed-based fibre. Plastic and tree-free, the combined properties of Kelsun are claimed to allow it to outperform other fibres without shedding harmful microplastics. The fibres provide extreme softness, high absorptivity, inherent flame resistant and antimicrobial properties in addition to unmatched biodegradability and are engineered to integrate into existing nonwoven manufacturing lines.

Rockline Industries has developed a fentanyl detection wipe that rapidly changes colour from orangish to deep red on contact with miniscule levels of fentanyl, enabling first responders, law enforcement, and others to identify the presence of toxic opioids safely. The wipe contains a novel formula with colour indicators and a specific starch bound to viscose fibres, ensuring the reaction occurs on the wipe itself. Tested successfully with pharmaceutical and street-grade fentanyl and other dangerous opioids at various US labs and police departments, a single-use sachet offers a convenient presumptive test with ongoing patent filings and potential for detecting other dangerous opioids.

The RISE Innovation Award recognises innovation in areas that use nonwovens or engineered fabrics in a way that is technically sophisticated, creative, unique and feasible, and that demonstrates the potential to positively impact the industry.

The 2024 RISE Innovation Award winner was PlantPanel X by Hempitecture – a rigid continuous insulation material used in exterior above-ground applications. With an R Value of R3.25 per inch, PlantPanel adds to thermal and acoustic performance. Engineered with a density to resist compression and deflection, it is being used in split-insulation wall and roof assemblies with either a rain screen cladding or roofing material, depending on the application. With 100% biobased and recycled content, PlantPanel is a sustainable, low carbon continuous insulation solution that is easy to install and safe to handle.

 www.riseconf.net