BAST Fibretechnology to Showcase Natural Fibers for Nonwovens

12.31.69

100% premium plant-based hemp fibers are suitable for various applications

Bast Fibre Technologies is a triple-bottom-line, cleantech fiber engineering firm, manufacturing specialty natural fibres for applications throughout the nonwovens industry including wipes. Using advanced fiber processing technology, BFT transforms the stems from hemp and flax plants into fiber that meets the exacting technical and performance standards required by nonwovens. sero is BFT’s 100% plant-based premium hemp fibre suitable for multiple product applications ranging from home cleaning, personal care, footwear, green building, textiles, safety, industrial, and more.
 
“The shift away from plastic is being driven by consumers, brands, and legislators and is affecting all industries, not just nonwovens. Natural fibres currently comprise a small segment of the nonwovens industry, but demand is increasing exponentially. BFT has shown that our all-natural fibres are suitable for nonwoven applications ranging from single-use wipes and hygiene through to durable nonwovens used in textiles, green building and agricultural applications,” says Lars Lauritsen, chief commercial officer, BAST Fibretech.

In addition to working on developing processes that better serve the nonwovens industry, BFT is also focusing on expansion. Earlier this year, the company purchased Georgia-Pacific’s Lumberton Cellulose LLC in a move that will allow the company to expand capacity to over 30,000 tons per year, making BFT Lumberton one of the largest fully integrated natural fiber processing facilities in North America.
 
“As changes in consumer preferences and single-use plastics legislation drive demand for alternatives to synthetic fibers, consumer brand companies are seeking to manufacture products using fiber with minimal ecological impacts,” says CEO Jim Posa. “The BFT Lumberton plant will produce all-natural, clean, soft, compostable fibers that are capable of displacing synthetics fibers in many nonwoven and textile applications and will also bring valuable cleantech sector jobs to the local community