The invention introduces a technique for producing high-density foam flake composite materials, which consist of foam flakes securely joined together by a thermoplastic binding agent, that can be applied in various sectors, including furniture, automotive, and construction, where effective sound absorption and robust structural support are crucial.

This month's Patent Alert focuses on inventions related to printing and laminating as examples of coating and finishing technologies.

Dome has developed an improved saddle pad design that is easier to maintain.

This month's Patent Alert showcases several innovations, ranging from the harvesting of hemp to the recovery and processing of its fibres into both woven and nonwoven fabrics. Furthermore, hemp's oils are also being utilised in the plastics industry.

This month's patent alert highlights recent patent applications of biomaterials, while showing their use as natural sources for coatings, binders and composites.

Bekaertdeslee Innovation developed a method to produce a double selection fabric, comprising different blister zones with a distinct appearance. The method is particularly helpful in the production of "double selection fabrics" with large flat areas (deep effect) alternating with blister (volume) areas, particularly with smaller deep areas.

Flame retardancy is a sought-after functionality for textiles and polymeric materials. This patent alert highlights some of the recently published patent applications that address or improve the burning behaviour of these materials.

The Decontex invention relates to cleaning devices and methods for cleaning textile products, protective clothing and/or equipment.

This month's selection highlights innovations not only in the widely used piezoelectric and triboelectric textile energy harvesters or combinations thereof, but also in textile energy harvesters based on salinity gradients.

The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a cylindrical fibre composite tank for containing equipment and a fluid, in particular a pressurised fluid.