Kelheim Fibres, a leading manufacturer of viscose specialty fibres, is currently working on various development projects to design fully biobased absorbent hygiene product (AHP) concepts that offer the same performance and reliability as conventional products without compromising on quality.

The company is leveraging its decades of experience in wood-based specialty fibres, which the tampon industry has trusted for years, to develop fully biobased AHP solutions. However, the requirements for AHP products differ, as each layer must fulfil a specific function. To meet these requirements, Kelheim Fibres has developed a range of functionalised specialty fibres, including hydrophobic Olea, trilobal Galaxy, and the hollow fibre Bramante, which ensure optimal results in every layer of the AHP product, the company said in a press release.

AHP products, such as diapers, sanitary pads, and incontinence products, are essential parts of daily lives. However, most of these products contain synthetic components that contribute to the global plastic waste problem. The search for alternatives is becoming increasingly urgent.

All of Kelheim's fibres are manufactured from 100 per cent wood pulp derived from certified and sustainably managed forests. They are fully biodegradable, with microorganisms in soil and seawater ensuring that no residues remain, which makes them a sustainable solution to the global plastic waste problem.

Kelheim Fibres has partnered with nonwovens manufacturer Sandler and hygiene products manufacturer Pelz Group to develop a completely bio-based panty liner. The product is set to be launched in the market shortly, the release added.

In addition to new projects in the field of biobased disposable and reusable solutions, Kelheim will also present its tried and tested fibres at booth 2415 of the Index 2023 fair, including fibres for tampons and flushable wipes.

"As pioneers in our industry, we do not limit ourselves to producing innovative fibres," said Crnoja-Cosic, director of new business development at Kelheim Fibres. "Together with our partners we develop holistic concepts that cover the entire value chain. Through this collaboration based on the Open Innovation principle, products are created that take into account the real needs of customers and are thought through from beginning to end, so they can be quickly ramped up to a commercial scale."