LINZ – International Fibres Group (IFG) has opened a new fibre research centre housing its latest SF1000 pilot semi-industrial melt spinning line.

This will allow the company to constantly test and evaluate new and emerging polymer types which can be developed and engineered specifically to meet the bespoke environmental and performance challenges of customers at the IFG Asota site in Linz, Austria.

The aim is to find new and sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil-based products. The IFG R&D team is keen for existing and new customers to make contact and visit the centre. Approaches for collaborative research projects are welcomed, especially by those with sustainable alternatives to fossil-based polymers and additives to test and develop.

Key launch partners include Arkema, Mitsubishi Chemicals and Omya.

“The new fibre research centre sees itself as an international centre of competence for thermoplastic fibres,” said Simon Riepler, IFG’s R&D director. “The goal is to create a place where state of the art fibre R&D can happen. Together with our suppliers, customers and development partners we work on sustainable fibre solutions for the future, including biobased, biodegradable and recycled materials.”

A new lab testing service will provide testing for raw materials, denier testing, measurement of spin oil content, thermal shrinkage and UV testing, FTIR. DSC, and more.