#Denim

2020-10-29

Cone Denim introduces Ionic+™ sustainable antimicrobial protection for denim

Cone Denim®, a global leader in denim authenticity and sustainable innovation, is excited to launch the newest in denim innovation – the Self-Clean Jean. In partnership with Noble Biomaterials, the global leader in antimicrobial and conductivity solutions for soft-surface applications, Cone Denim has developed its newest denim fabric using Noble’s Ionic+™ technology, which harnesses the power of positive ions embedded in yarn fibers to inhibit the growth of bacteria and microbes on the surface of fabric.

Through this advanced technology, Cone has created sustainable protection for jeans that remain clean and odor-free, thus reducing the need for frequent washing.

“Cone remains committed to being a leader in the development of sustainable denims and working with likeminded partners to identify and lead initiatives to create more sustainable, responsibly produced denims,” said Steve Maggard, President of Cone Denim. “We are very excited to be the first to bring together the advanced science of Ionic+ with Cone’s authentic denim, creating another industry first in sustainable denim innovation.”

“Consumers today are looking for apparel that provides not only comfort, but also hygiene benefits,” said Joel Furey, CCO of Noble Biomaterials. “We’re very pleased to be partnering with Cone Denim to incorporate our Ionic+ technology into this innovative, sustainable denim that provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection.”

The newest Cone denim with Noble’s Ionic+ silver technology was designed with sustainability and protection at its core. Ionic+ uses positively charged ions found in nature to disrupt the growth of microbes on Cone’s fabric, promoting self-cleaning to eliminate odors.

Silver ions are permanently incorporated within the fibers and the fabric requires no additional chemistry or finishing process that could be washed or worn out. The performance lasts the lifetime of the garment, resulting in fewer needed washings and reduced water consumption and energy use.

The denim is also dyed using one of Cone Denim’s Distilled Indigo (pre-reduced) shades, which offers additional water, energy and chemical savings.

Noble Biomaterials is a bluesign® System Partner and Ionic+ fibers and filaments have received OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 accreditation, which certifies that they support human ecology through biocompatibility and the absence of harmful substances in the manufacturing process.

Pierette Scavuzzo, Director Product Design for Cone Denim added, “The Self-Cleaning Jean is a game changer. The fabric is versatile in a 10.5 ounce weight with 44 percent stretch, incorporating well-balanced yarn character and a very soft hand. Combine this superior comfort with silver, odor-free technology and its many sustainable benefits that promote resource savings and you have your favorite go-to jean.”

Cone Denim is launching the Self Clean Jean in our Spring / Summer ’22 collection which debuts next week in conjunction with the Kingpins Amsterdam virtual trade show.

Texprocess 2026: Automation, digitalisation and AI redefine textile processing

Making investment decisions in textile processing has become significantly more demanding. Increasing energy costs, a shortage of skilled labour and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties are compelling companies to focus on technologies that deliver clear gains in efficiency and process reliability. This applies equally to apparel manufacturing and to the processing of technical textiles and high-performance materials. As a result, modernisation initiatives are assessed more carefully – even as the need to upgrade production systems continues to intensify.

Techtextil 2026: Between innovation pressure & market reality

From 21 to 24 April 2026, Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main will once again become the central meeting point for the international technical textiles and nonwovens industry. Running in parallel, Texprocess will focus on the industrial implementation of textile processing technologies as the leading platform in this field. Together, the two trade fairs form a closely integrated presentation and working platform along the entire textile value chain – from material development to finished applications.

Between geopolitical pressure and industrial resilience

In this interview, Dr. Janpeter Horn (VDMA) discusses the current challenges facing textile machinery manufacturers, shaped by geopolitical tensions, regulatory developments and subdued investment. He also outlines why innovation strength, integrated solutions and strategic positioning remain key to global competitiveness.

Eastman Naia™ debuts at Kingpins Amsterdam, transforming Denim from the inside out

At Kingpins Amsterdam (April 15–16, 2026), Naia™ by Eastman Chemical Company makes its debut, presenting its approach to circularity and comfort in denim at Stand 1, Ground Level (Blue Area). The brand also highlights its growing global ecosystem, connecting mill partners, designers and brands working to expand denim possibilities through fiber innovation.

ISKO introduces a new chapter of denim innovation at Kingpins Amsterdam with FW 27/28

At Kingpins Amsterdam, ISKO presents its latest FW27/28 collection, a forward-looking exploration of denim that merges advanced color technologies, innovative fabric engineering, and contemporary finishing techniques. Designed to meet the evolving demands of the industry, the collection reflects ISKO’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of authenticity, performance, and responsible innovation, while also embracing a strong lifestyle perspective.

TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 achieves global denim availability in six months; Vol. 2 debuts at Kingpins Amsterdam

When TENCEL™ Lyocell - HV100 debuted at last year’s Kingpins Amsterdam in October, 17 mill partners across five countries presented fabrics featuring the new fiber. Just six months on, participation has more than doubled, evolving into a global network that spans nine countries and four continents, signaling both strong industry momentum and growing demand.

Covestro, FILK Freiberg, and OUT e.V. develop flexible, conductive polymer smart textile system

As the smart textiles market continues to grow across healthcare, personal protection, sportswear, and automotive applications, developers are seeking new ways to integrate electronic functionality directly into textiles, without the rigidity and complexity of conventional wiring. To address this challenge, FILK Freiberg Institute, an independent research institution with expertise in polymer coatings for textile applications, collaborated with Optotransmitter-Umweltschutz-Technologie (OUT) e.V. The joint project, funded under the German Industrielle Gemeinschaftsforschung (IGF) program of the Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE), focused on developing flexible, conductive polymer surfaces for next-generation smart textiles.

Global growth in the technical textile sector drives interest in HIGHTEX 2026 to its peak

The continued steady growth of the technical textiles and nonwoven sector worldwide is increasing interest every year in the HIGHTEX Exhibition, one of the sector’s most important meeting points. In this strong growth climate, HIGHTEX 2026 International Technical Textiles and Nonwoven Exhibition, which will bring together the sector’s leading manufacturers, technology providers, and international buyers, is preparing to open its doors at Tüyap Fair and Congress Center on June 9–13, 2026.

RUDOLF is pioneering the future of technical textiles by developing innovative, functional solutions

At Techtextil 2026, RUDOLF presents its latest innovations for textile auxiliaries, textile care and construction chemicals. Based in Geretsried, Bavaria, the company draws on more than 100 years of experience and continues to position itself as a global technology partner focused on quality, innovation and sustainability.