The innovation has been developed to address one of the most important yet challenging performance requirements in absorbent hygiene and technical products: effective odor control. By incorporating odor-capturing functionality for a broad spectrum of odor-causing compounds directly into the fiber structure, the technology helps manufacturers create products that actively capture odor-causing molecules rather than simply masking them. This enables a more effective and long-lasting approach to odor management while maintaining the comfort and performance consumers expect, for instance from adult incontinence and feminine care products, as well as from technical products such as air conditioning systems.

"Consumers don't simply want odors to be covered up. They want products that help them feel comfortable, confident and protected throughout the day," said Anne Louise Theut Meier, R&D Engineer for Textiles and Nonwoven Fibers at Indorama Ventures. "This is why our customers are looking for meaningful improvements to the user experience. This patented technology is a non-biocidal, and fragrance-free approach compatible with polyolefin and polyester fibers. It has undergone extensive evaluation using a combination of analytical and real-use testing methodologies. These included gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, sensory evaluations and testing with real urine samples to ensure that measurable laboratory performance translates into meaningful consumer benefits.”

During the conference, Anne Louise will demonstrate enhanced capture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with odor generation when the odor-capturing technology was incorporated into various fiber configurations. Conference attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a live demonstration themselves.

The technology further strengthens Indorama Ventures' position as a partner for innovation in the hygiene and technical sector. Through its global manufacturing footprint and dedicated research and development capabilities, the company continues to develop solutions that help customers address evolving market needs across adult incontinence, feminine care, baby care as well as technical applications. The respective bi-component fiber portfolio will be marketed under the product brand platform “expera”, which includes solutions that deliver superior sensory, visual, or haptic appeal.