The alliance with Vidalia Denim, a division of Vidalia Mills Co, will incorporate Lubrizol’s X4zol(TM)-J elastomeric fibre in the production of Vidalia’s stretch denim fabrics, maximising the performance and eco-friendly benefits sought by leading brands and consumers alike.
Lubrizol’s X4zol-J thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibre is created using a proprietary solvent-free reactive extrusion process that is more sustainable and produces a finer and stronger elastomeric fibre than traditional stretch fibres such as spandex. This results in a unique 360-degree smooth stretch and breathability for superior apparel comfort and fit, says Lubrizol.
Rob Richardson, global business director for Performance Apparel solutions at Lubrizol, underscores the benefits of the relationship with Vidalia, stating: “We at Lubrizol are truly excited about teaming up with Vidalia to incorporate our X4zol-J technology into their denim fabrics. While X4zol-J has already been adopted by many strategic global denim brands, we see this as an essential next step in helping to advance the apparel industry’s sustainability agenda.”
The collaboration with Vidalia will enable brands to work locally in North America to deliver high performance denim fabrics for consumers, says Richardson.
He continues: “This alone takes miles and months out of the supply chain. Plus, the powerful combination of X4zol-J’s favourable material and recyclability profile, along with Vidalia’s sustainable manufacturing processes, will help brands achieve lower scores using Higg Index tools available through the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.”
“The production of stretch fabrics holds such an important place in the denim industry today. Vidalia’s decision to work with Lubrizol as a preferred supplier of stretch fibres furthers our mission to build the most efficient and environmentally-friendly denim mill in North America,” adds Dan Feibus, CEO of Vidalia Mills Co.
“Lubrizol provides us with an innovative state-of-the-art solution for a sustainably-produced, high-performance stretch fibre, and represents a key element in the evolution of great denim products. Lubrizol is a global leader whose commitment to constant innovation and sustainable manufacturing are a perfect fit for Vidalia, and we are extremely excited to be working with Lubrizol on this project.”
