Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. has developed Solotex Octa, a highly modified cross-section crimped yarn that is extra bulky, lightweight, stretchable and shape-recovering.
Samples will be provided in fiscal year 2018. Teijin Frontier expects annual sales of the staple fiber version to reach 400 tons and the filament version one million meters as fabrics by the fiscal year ending in March 2023.
Synthetic staple fiber insulation that is extra shape-recovering after compression, bulky and lightweight is in demand as a substitute for natural feathers. There is also demand for extra-bulky, lightweight and stretchable synthetic filaments, but until now, manufacturers have found it difficult to produce such filaments that are both bulky and stretchable.
Teijin Frontier developed Solotex Octa by transforming the cross-sectional shape of Solotex, a stretchable, shape-recovering and high-cushioning material, into a highly modified cross section comprising eight projections aligned in a radial pattern around a hollow fiber.
Solotex Octa offers the following features in addition to those of Solotex:
- Shape-recovering after compression, highly bulky, lightweight and stretchable owing to the clearance between fibers.
- When used for staple fibers, it maintains its coiled crimp structure with rigidity due to its cross-section shape, resulting in shape-recovering after compression, high stretchability and cushioning.
- The fabrics are absorbent, quick drying, anti-transparent, and provide thermal barriers and insulation due to Solotex Octa’s large surface area.
Teijin Frontier envisions a wide range of applications for Solotex Octa including fashionwear and industrial materials. The staple-fiber version will be used in place of feathers mainly for bedding. The filament version will be used in fabrics for sportswear and fashionwear.