The 46th International MAN-MADE FIBER CONGRESS from 19 – 21 Sept. 2007 was again the platform for the international textile industry.

International record participation

700 participants from more than 30 nations as well as 110 lecturers from 16 nations underlined the impressive importance of the 46th DORNBIRN MFC as a lead event. Apart of traditional visitors from many countries, the organizers reported an increase in number of participants from Turkey, Spain and France. In order to develop new segments of visitors the organizers are planning increased activities in South- and East-European countries, the Baltic States, Scandinavia, Great Britain and Russia.

Intensified cooperation research / industry

The current congress underlined the importance of cooperation between research and industry. The targeted dedication of research funds in cooperation with textile research institutes, the man-made fiber industry and the textile chain was illustrated with examples out of practice.

In the field of tension between growth markets and the challenge of globalisation impressive cases showed the performance spectrum of the man-made fibers industry and the scientific/technical potential of universities and research institutes. The presentation of cases from scientific research to products ready-for-market will remain a topic for the coming years.

New mission for exhibition in the foyer

15 exhibitors in modular booths from industry and research offered an insight into their research work, service-profiles and product innovations. Preference was given to such institutes and companies that are holding lectures at the congress. This offered the possibility to people interested and participants to discuss more details on an individual basis. In many cases the lecturer was personally available. A new lounge on the first floor of the Kulturhaus offered additional opportunities for intense communication among experts.

Relevant themes for the future

Health, mobility, safety, communication and fashion / home textiles (incl. wellness) will be the main themes affecting society in future and will therefore be of special relevance to the DORNBIRN MFC.

Preview 47th DORNBIRN MFC 2008

• New Developments in Fibers / Recycling.
• Sportswear / Elastic & Bioactive.
• Safety / Flammability.
• Technical Textiles / Civil Engineering.
• Non Wovens.
• EU / US Research.

Further information:

Austrian Man-Made Fibers Institute (AUSTRIAN-MFI) Österreichisches Chemiefaser-Institut

A-1090 Wien, Kolingasse 1/1/5 Tel.: +43 (0) 1 319 2909 Fax.: +43 (0) 1 319 2909-31 e-mail: oechiwien@EUnet.at homepage: www.dornbirn-mfc.com.