The third edition of Edana’s Nonwovens Research Academy (NRA), which took place at the Centre for Technical Textiles at the University of Leeds, UK, on March 29-30, brought together 114 students and industry R&D experts from 17 countries, representing 36 companies and 22 research centres.

Papers presented at the event included nonwovens processes; spunbonded nonwovens made from splittable bi-component filaments; cellulose meltblown nonwovens based on the Lyocell-process; cellulosic nonwovens according to the Nanoval-process; mechanical characterisation of through-air bonded nonwoven structures; a new method for measuring friction between nonwoven materials and the skin; measurement of nonwoven web uniformity using image analysis; biomaterials, beyond buzzwords and marketing tools; ecological method of manufacture of multifilament cellulose; study of polylactide properties – applications to nonwovens; PVD-coating – a new solution for anti-static finishing of temperature resistant nonwovens; three generations of the lyocell type fibres.

Another highlight was Edana’s first ever nonwovens fashion show, organised by students from the University of Leeds. This included dresses, ball gowns, blouses and suits.