Fibre maker The Lenzing Group and GEA Group's Zimmer AG concluded a licensing agreement on the extended application of lyocell fiber technology. The goal is to market growth and further development of technology.
Zimmer AG may use some Lenzing Group key patents for the construction of lyocell plants. The conclusion of this agreement brought an amicable end to previous differences concerning patent issues.
Winfried J. Krämer, Chief Executive of Zimmer AG stated that the licensing agreement emphasizes the engineering and design competence of Zimmer and strengthens Zimmer's market position in textile fiber plant engineering. The development of the Lyocell technology provides the opportunity to both partners to react flexibly and innovatively on future market requirements.
Lyocell fibers are made of the renewable raw material cellulose. The fiber combines cellulose fiber characteristics, such as ease of wear and optimum moisture absorption, with synthetic fiber characteristics, such as high strength durability and ease of care. The lyocell production process is characterized by its exceeding environmental soundness. Both Lenzing and Zimmer own patents on their processes.
Cellulose fiber technology leader Lenzing is the global leader in the large-scale industrial production of lyocell fibers with an annual capacity of 120,000 tons at its three sites in Austria (Heiligenkreuz), Great Britain (Grimsby) and the USA (Mobile/Alabama) and markets lyocell under the brand name TENCEL.