#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

2020-04-09

Way out for mask shortage under Covid-19 pandemic

COVID-19 pandemic is straining health systems worldwide. In order to solve the shortage of mask, industry experts have developed different types of masks for the mass. The ShanghaiTex textile machinery exhibition stands with Industry against COVID-19 and has rounded some innovations.

Graphene Face Mask with 10 Times Longer Life Span

A Beijing-based institute has developed a new type of graphene face mask with stronger antibacterial properties and better breathability, which can be used for up to 48 hours. Graphene can form a natural 'nano knife' on melt-blown cloth, which under the action of natural respiration, destroys the cell walls of germs and plays a good bactericidal role.

Silver-Plated Fiber Mask that Provides Antibacterial & Deodorant Functions

A Japanese wearable company has launched a ‘high-performance’ mask that can be washed and used repeatedly. With silver-plated fiber ‘agposs’, a proprietary technology applied in the mask, it provides both antibacterial and deodorant functions.

3D Printed Mask Developed by Healthcare Professionals

In the US, some healthcare professionals used 3D printers to make reusable plastic face masks alleviating the shortage of surgical masks. While one regular surgical masks could be cut into six to ten pieces and clipped into the plastic mask to serve as filters.

YKK launches “YZiP® Light” aluminum alloy zipper for cotton pants

YKK Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Koichi Matsushima; hereafter, YKK) has launched YZiP® Light, a lightweight aluminum alloy zipper for cotton pants, with sales beginning in late March. The introduction of YZiP® Light expands YKK’s zipper portfolio—led by the flagship YZiP® copper alloy zipper—providing customers with greater flexibility to meet diverse garment needs.

Coats to showcase innovative reinforcement and filler materials for leather goods and accessories at APLF 2026

Coats, a world-class Tier 2 manufacturer and trusted partner for the apparel and footwear industries, will be promoting four advanced materials from its ‘Lifestyle Solutions’ portfolio at APLF 2026 in Hong Kong in March. Each innovation has been specifically engineered to help luxury and premium brands elevate the craft, durability, sustainability and creative expression required in the manufacturing of handbags, purses, and other high-end designer accessories.

Design, innovation and sustainability propel VIATT 2026’s expanding role in ASEAN textile sourcing

At its third edition, the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles, and Textile Technologies (VIATT) further reinforced its role as a key sourcing and business platform for ASEAN’s textile industry. The three-day fair welcomed over 17,000 visits from 54 countries and regions, and featured over 460 exhibitors from 21 countries and regions across 18,000 sqm. The 2026 edition was marked by the introduction of new international pavilions and zones, broadening the fair’s sourcing scope across new geographies and product categories. The fringe programme, headlined by the debut Trend Forum, further distinguished VIATT as the region’s most integrated textile trade platform – uniquely spanning the entire value chain.

New study shows low environmental impact by Cotton made in Africa Organic Cotton from Tanzania

Today, the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) is announcing the results of a comprehensive life-cycle analysis (LCA) for cotton produced in Tanzania under the Cotton made in Africa Organic (CmiA Organic) standard. The study emphasises the small ecological footprint of CmiA Organic verified cotton. This can largely be traced back to the absence of synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilisers, and artificial irrigation. Consequently, CmiA Organic cotton can help the textile industry meet regulatory requirements as well as science-based targets. The results also show that the consequences of climate change threaten the livelihoods of these cotton farmers, even though the type of agriculture they practise barely contributes to climate change.

PERFORMANCE DAYS proves its relevance as the industry’s key meeting point

Held on March 18–19, 2026, PERFORMANCE DAYS once again confirmed its position as a leading international platform for functional textiles. A total of 3.366 trade visitors and around 560 exhibitors gathered in Munich, with the event already kicking off successfully on DAY 0, which received highly positive feedback for its interactive format. Despite challenging conditions caused by the public transport strike in Munich, the event saw strong attendance and a consistently high level of activity across both exhibition days.