CovationBio, founded in May 2022 following the acquisition of DuPont Biomaterials by the Ruian, China-headquartered Huafon Group, is collaborating with the Killer brand of Mumbai, India-headquartered Kewal Kiran Clothing (KKCL).

Killer is releasing a new collection of checked shirts based on bio-based Sorona polymer for which the fabrics have been hank dyed for the first time to offer two-way stretch, eliminating the need for elastanes.  

The shirts are distinguished by their comfort, moisture management, drape and hand feel, in addition to vibrant colours and stretch and recovery.

The company aims to expand the future of sustainable textiles in casual fashion by streamlining the method for dyeing Sorona polymer and reducing the processing time for coloured stretch fabrics incorporating it.

Sorona polymer is made from 37% annually renewable plant-based ingredients, offers a high-performing, responsibly sourced material option and fibres made from it are currently used in apparel applications, including athleisure and athletic wear, insulation, swimwear, outerwear, suiting, faux fur and more.

The polymer is a USDA-Certified biobased product, has earned Class 1 Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification and is bluesign approved.

“Traditional yarn-dyed checked fabrics lack stretch and Sorona polymer fills the void,” said Rakesh Basa, Killer team technical manager. “While the yarn dyed concept is not new, the Killer team, challenged us to develop a process that would still work with Sorona polymer. The excellent stretch and recovery displayed by the yarns must be maintained through the yarn dyeing and fabric development process. Working closely with our strategic value chain partners, we delivered this to the Killer brand team who realised the potential to add an entirely new category to their shirting portfolio.”

Sorona.com

www.covationbio.com