Toray Unveils Green Nylon

The 60% Bio-Based fabric reflects Toray’s commitment to producing lower-impact textiles

Toray Industries announced the development of a new, more sustainable nylon that represents a “major step forward in the company’s sustainability vision,” and makes it possible to create bio-based versions of proven Toray technologies such as Entrant and Dermizax.

The new Ecodear Nylon is 60% bio-based, developed with sebacic acid generated from castor beans. The resulting fiber, initially available in 10, 20 and 50 denier versions, can be spun in the same process as conventional nylon, said Toray. And because Toray is a chemical manufacturer in addition to a textile company, it can consistently control product quality from the creation of polymers to the production of finished yarns, said the company. Ecodear Nylon also has been designed to be durabile and offer a soft hand.

Toray plans to market the textile in fall 2020, targeting the active outdoor sports and skiing markets, as well as athleisure. In North America, Toray International America Inc. will provide the new textile.