Two ITC research projects, New Functional Textiles from Bio-based and Degradable Fibers by Prof. Tao Xiao-ming, and Development of Fine Worsted Yak Yarns and Fabrics by Dr Xu Bin-gang, won Gold Medals at the 45th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva. In addition, both Gold Medals came with a “Jury’s Commendation” which shows that they are part of the elite group of Gold Medal winners.
In New Functional Textiles from Bio-based and Degradable Fibers, Prof. Tao Xiao-ming and her research team developed green production technologies for new functional textiles by using 100% bio-based and bio-degradable PHBV/PLA fibers. Utilizing a low temperature dyeing process with disperse dyes to achieve high dye uptake, the result is good color fastness with a 32% saving of energy compared to conventional methods of dyeing PET material. The textiles have outstanding natural anti-bacterial and mite-resistant properties without the need to use any additional chemicals.
The second Gold Medal recipient is Dr Xu Bin-gang and his team for their project, Development of Fine Worsted Yak Yarns and Fabrics. A new spinning method and system are developed to produce 100% fine, high-quality yak yarns and fabrics. The newly spun yak yarns are strong, smooth and regular. Fabrics knitted with these yarns provide a soft feel with better air-permeability and heat retention, compared to that of cashmere and wool. The finished yak garments have a better quality with increased added-value. This technology also helps to improve the living standards of the yak herders in the Tibetan Plateau.
The 45th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, which is arranged under the patronage of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Swiss Government and City of Geneva, showcased innovations and inventions from around the globe. The event ran from 29 March - 2 April 2017, and attracted 700 exhibitors from 40 countries, and featured 1,000 new innovations and inventions.
| Research Units | School of Fashion and Textiles |
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