Materials science company Hologenix, creators of Celliant, and global textile solutions provider Unifi, makers of Repreve, have teamed up to introduce Celliant with Repreve.
The new performance fiber has the infrared properties of Celliant infrared technology and the sustainable footprint of Repreve, one of the world’s leading brands of recycled fiber.
“We are honored to partner with sustainability leader Unifi and its Repreve fiber,” said Seth Casden, co-founder and chief executive officer of Hologenix, based in Pacific Palisades, California. “Celliant with Repreve marries self-care and sustainability for a new generation of products.”
Celliant is a blend of infrared radiation–generating bioceramic minerals, which, when embedded into textiles, allows them to convert body heat into infrared energy, returning it to the body and temporarily increasing circulation and cellular oxygenation, according to a news release. This process can aid in muscle recovery, increase endurance, and improve overall performance in healthy individuals, among other benefits, officials said.
Repreve recycled performance fiber consists of high-quality fibers made from 100% recycled materials, including post-consumer plastic bottles and pre-consumer waste. It is also certified and traceable with U Trust verification and FiberPrint technology to back up customers’ recycled claims. Compared to virgin fiber, Repreve helps to offset the use of petroleum, emitting fewer greenhouse gasses and conserving water and energy in the process.
Both Celliant and Repreve are used in many brands across many sectors, from apparel and sportswear to upholstery fabric and more, so the new partnership opens an array of possible applications.
“We’re excited that the infrared component of Celliant with Repreve provides enhanced health and wellness benefits and that we are expanding the use of sustainable fiber options that positively impact our planet, both now and in the future,” said Eddie Ingle, chief executive officer of Unifi, headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Celliant with Repreve’s official North America knitting partner is Beverly Knits, one of the largest circular knitters in the United States, developing fabric for all markets including intimate apparel, activewear, outdoor products, mattress and bedding, automotive, industrial and medical.
Based in Gastonia, North Carolina, Beverly Knits also operates Creative Dyeing & Finishing, LLC. The new three-way partnership allows the production of finished goods to take place within a 300-mile radius, from Celliant mineral processing to final product.
“It is a core part of our ethos to provide Made in U.S.A. products that support American manufacturing,” said Ron Sytz, chief executive officer of Beverly Knits. “To further this aim while simultaneously creating products that are both better for the consumer and better for the earth is something we can all be proud of.”
