Among recent developments at Baltex, based in Ilkeston, UK, is the NPD 236 3D spacer fabric manufactured with The Lycra Company’s Coolmax yarn that can be made from recycled PET bottles or 100% textile waste.

This new fabric has superior wicking performance and employs a special yarn cross section structure to encourage effective capillary action to draw moisture away from the skin.

Anti-bacterial performance is effected by embedded elements in the yarn’s polymer and other key benefits include enhanced airflow, with good compression and recovery. The fast-drying, cooling fabric is machine washable at 60°C and fully recyclable. Unlike finishes that will degrade over time, the yarn’s performance benefits are permanent and don’t wash out.

Potential applications for NPD 236 are in the furnishings, healthcare, military and sports markets.

Specifically for the sports markets, as well as seating and mattresses, Baltex works closely with its raw material suppliers to select the best yarns and fibres suitable for each customer’s technical specifications. Fibres employed include polyester, cotton, high tenacity polyester Kevlar, meta aramid and Lycra, as well as Coolmax.

Plain fabrics, mesh fabrics and 3D spacer fabrics each have specific benefits. While mesh fabrics are recognised for their stability, strength and breathability, XD spacer fabrics can provide high air permeability, insulation, durability, recyclability and pressure redistribution, without sacrificing comfort.

www.baltex.co.uk