Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. has developed INDI5 indigo-like polyester fabrics in collaboration with Daiichi Gousen (a Japanese weaver of heavyweight fabrics) and Mitsuke Senkou (a Japanese dyehouse).
INDI5 lightweight fabrics offer comfort, easy-care property and fade resistance. These colorfast fabrics combine Teijin Frontier’s polymer-modification technology with Daiichi Gousen’s weaving technology and Mitsuke Senkou’s dyeing technology.
Teijin Frontier has been working with Daiichi Gousen and Mitsuke Senkou since 2012 to help them revitalize their domestic operations. The new fabrics were developed in Mitsuke, Niigata Prefecture, which is one of Teijin Frontier’s main production districts for heavyweight fabrics and also well known for aizome (Japanese indigo dyeing).
INDI5 polyester fiber is made with a highly dye- and color-receptive polymer that bleeds like indigo-dyed cotton. It offers natural texture, and it can be partially bleached with a special process for color variation. Special weaving technology also achieves a denim-like texture.
INDI5 fabrics feature denim-like uneven coloring; soft lightweight polyester fiber; no discoloration after washing; wrinkle resistance and fast drying; and a denim look combined with comfort.
Teijin Frontier is exploring marketing opportunities for INDI5, which is available in four colors, for application in women’s wear, outerwear and uniforms. Annual sales are expected to reach 200,000 meters by the fiscal year ending in March 2021.