Growth In Polyester Masks Stagnation In Other Hbers

Abstract

Here's welcome news for the beleaguered fiber industry. In 1999, global man-made fiber production grew 4% from 1998 to reach a total of 29.5 million metric tons of synthetic and cellulosic fibers. What's more, with the world's economic climate looking good for this year, fiber growth likely will continue this year These are the main conclusions in Dutch fiber producer Acordis' annual report on fibers, which formerly was issued by Dutch chemicals and fiber producer Akzo Nobel. The report has been continued by Acordis, which was launched this year as the combined fiber businesses of Akzo Nobel and Courtaulds, acquired by Akzo Nobel in late 1998. According to the report, the growth in production was paced by polyester, which was up 9% from 1998 for staple fiber and 8% for filament yarns. Some 30 years ago, when total man-made fiber production was 8.39 million metric tons, polyester accounted for only about 20% of total production. ...