Daiwabo Neu Co., Ltd. is working on the use of innovative production processes centering on dyeing and finishing. In collaboration with overseas dyehouses, the company has recently started experiments on the supercritical CO2 dyeing of polypropylene (PP). By promoting the practical use of PP dyeing, it aims to expand applications, such as for Duron PP staple fibers for apparel.
Supercritical CO2 dyeing is already in practical use for dyeing polyester. Introduction of this technology is being promoted at commercial levels in Thailand, etc., and mega sports brands are increasingly using this technology for their products. Meanwhile, supercritical CO2 dyeing of PP is possible in principle. Although it has been successful at experimental levels, there are problems in terms of physical properties and the like, thus hindering its commercialization.
Daiwabo Neu aims for practical use of supercritical CO2 dyeing of PP prior to others. Since supercritical CO2 dyeing equipment is practically impossible to introduce in Japan because of restrictions on high pressure containers, the company started R&D and experiments in collaboration with overseas dyehouses that have already introduced this technology.
In the Daiwabo Group, PP staple fibers are produced by Daiwabo Polytec Co., Ltd., and those for apparel applications are marketed by Daiwabo Neu under the Duron brand.
By commercializing supercritical CO2 dyeing of PP, demand for PP, for which applications have been limited due to dyeing difficulties, are expected to grow. Daiwabo Neu will focus on practical applications in sportswear and casual wear.