At Techtextil, the Bavarian company Kelheim fibres presented Olea, the world’s first viscose fibre with inherent hydrophobic properties. The also displayed the fibre Bramante, which, in contrast to Olea, can deliver increased levels of absorbency relative to standard viscose fibre. Bramante can store liquids in the segmented hollow structure inside the fibre and keep it there, so it could be used in re-usable incontinence products and other hygienic applications. Danufil® BF, a flame retardant viscose can be used as a protective barrier nonwoven in mattresses or furniture. By controlling fibre dimensions and cross sections or by incorporating additional functionalities in the fibre matrix, Kelheim’s fibre experts hope to preserve the typical properties of a viscose fibre such as softness, skin-friendliness and wearer comfort.
