Interview with Mr Dave Hill

Technical Absorbents Ltd (TAL) is owned by Bluestar Fibres Ltd, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China National Bluestar Corporation – which in-turn is wholly-owned by ChemChina. Since inception in 1993, TAL has witnessed many changes within the nonwovens industry – predominantly with regards the use of its Super Absorbent Fibre® (SAF®).

In addition to the manufacture of SAF®, TAL also toll manufactures nonwovens, yarns, woven fabrics and finished consumer goods – all containing SAF®. This is as a result of the relationships it has built with some of the world’s leading specialist fibre converters, roll-goods producers and end product manufacturers. It is these networks that have allowed TAL to keep its hands on the pulse of the nonwovens industry.

TAL has noticed a huge growth in the nonwovens industry over recent years in traditional and new specialised application areas. TAL is experiencing tremendous market interest in exploiting the benefits of a fibrous superabsorbent across all sectors of the nonwoven industry. SAF® can be easily converted via the majority of existing web-forming processes producing nonwovens that have an extremely even distribution profile of superabsorbent.

The main competition for SAF® is from the Super Absorbent Powders (SAP). Both specific forms of polyacrylate superabsorbent have their own set of advantages – depending on the nature of the application. SAP has been traditionally much cheaper than SAF, however TAL is on a continual program of capacity expansion and new product development, which is aimed at significantly reducing not only SAF pricing, but also to offer superior liquid absorbency performance.

It is reported that performance apparel represents one of the fastest growing sectors of the international textile industry. Its growth is being fuelled by new fibre and fabric development, enhanced process technologies and changing consumer lifestyles. As a result, many raw product and roll goods manufacturers are using their knowledge and experience to expand into this market.

TAL is working with specialists in this field to assess the potential for its SAF®-based coolant technology for items of apparel that need to ensure any negative effects on the thermo-regulatory system are minimal.TAL first worked on SAF® -based nonwoven coolant technology in 2005. Its first form was a specially blended combination of super absorbent fibres, in a revolutionary, patented, water-activated, three-layer composite cooling fabric structure.

The success of this, coupled with its proven experience of coolant technology, made SAF® the super absorbent solution of choice for a new line of cricketing headgear inspired by cricketer Charlton Lamb. Combined with phase-change material, the aim of the caps, helmets and clothing is to limit heating up of the body and minimise sweating.

TAL is currently developing new technologies and engaging with people who are working on projects that could benefit from these. It is still early days but the initial results and feedback appear to be extremely positive. One recent development is a fully washable superabsorbent sweat absorbing undergarment, for application within the military and security industries.

In the medical market, absorbent technology is required for numerous products, including those for exudates management. As part of the normal healing process, wounds release fluid but too much or too little can interfere with the healing process. Therefore it is important to manage moisture levels, particularly in chronic wounds. SAF® is already being used in a wide range of specialist medical care application areas. The nature of the product has also lead to a number of exciting opportunities in the design of new wound care fabrics for exudates management.

One area of concern has been the overall lack of fund liquidity within the supply chain which has resulted in trading restrictions and very cautious order schedules. TAL has responded whenever possible to work with its customer base to ensure maintenance of effective supply conditions.

TAL is continuously looking to enhance product quality and explore new markets and opportunities. Every day it manages a range of innovative development projects for new and prospective customers who have concepts that require absorption capabilities.

SAF® is a unique product and a market leader in a wide range of applications and TAL is focused on maintaining this position for many years to come. This level of commitment, coupled with a reputation for providing cost-effective solutions, excellent customer service and first-class technical support, is its main foundation for continued growth.

Virtual trade fairs are a good addition to a comprehensive marketing strategy, especially in light of a huge shift towards online promotion and sourcing of information. However, there is no replacement for the one-to-one contact made on an actual exhibition stand and the value of such meetings to a strong business relationship.

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