INDA Reveals Finalists for 2025 RISE Innovation Award
Conference set for October 14–15 in Raleigh, NC
INDA, the Association of the nonwoven fabrics industry, has announced the three finalists for the 2025 RISE Innovation Award, a highlight of the RISE (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics) Technology Conference. The award recognizes breakthrough innovations in nonwoven and engineered fabrics with the potential to advance the industry.
The 2025 RISE Technology Conference will be held October 14–15 at the McKimmon Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. Industry leaders, product developers and technology scouts will convene to explore emerging research, network with peers and evaluate the finalists’ innovations. The finalists will present their technologies on the afternoon of October 14, with the award winner announced the following day.
2025 Finalists:
- EsterCycle by EsterCycle: A low-cost, emissions-conscious chemical recycling technology that converts biohazard-contaminated and mixed polyester nonwovens, including PPE waste, back into usable material. The process enables safer and sustainable circulation of nonwoven plastics in the supply chain.
- Kelsun Fiber by Keel Labs: The first high-performance, seaweed-based fibre designed for nonwovens, Kelsun is plastic- and tree-free while offering softness, high absorbency, flame resistance, antimicrobial properties and full biodegradability. The material integrates with existing manufacturing lines to deliver sustainable next-generation products.
- Fentanyl Detection Wipe by Rockline Industries: A single-use wipe that changes colour when exposed to trace levels of fentanyl, providing a safe, rapid presumptive test for law enforcement, first responders and security personnel. The innovative product has been tested on pharmaceutical and street-grade opioids and is protected by ongoing patents.
The RISE Innovation Award highlights technically sophisticated, creative and commercially feasible solutions with the potential to drive significant impact in the nonwovens sector.
The 2024 award went to PlantPanel X by Hempitecture Inc., a rigid, continuous insulation material with 100% bio-based and recycled content, providing thermal and acoustic performance for above-ground building applications.
