Ultrafabrics and its partner Tapis, a supplier of aircraft interiors fabrics, have now officially launched AV Bio, a bio-based performance fabric that was unveiled at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2024 in Hamburg. Tapis says this innovative fabric is the first of its kind in the aviation and transportation sector, and can revolutionise the way sustainable materials are incorporated into aircraft interiors.
“AV Bio represents a monumental advancement in sustainable technology for the aviation industry,” said Barry Silverman, VP of marketing and branding at Ultrafabrics. “We’re thrilled to introduce a product that seamlessly integrates renewable plant-based materials into our multi-layer construction, setting a new standard for sustainability without compromising on performance or comfort.”
As Silverman said, renewable plant-based materials are incorporated into the multi-layer construction of AV Bio, reducing reliance on finite resources. By replacing a portion of the polyurethane material with bio-based content, AV Bio ensures comfort and durability. AV Bio fabrics can be tailored and integrated into various aircraft seating collections and vertical surfaces.
“Ultrafabrics’ proprietary Takumi technology allows for the seamless integration of sustainable materials into every layer of its products, offering airlines a lighter-weight solution that supports their sustainability initiatives,” added Matthew Nichols, sales director at Tapis.
AV Bio includes innovative sustainability technologies developed in partnership with leading eco-conscious suppliers. For example, AV Bio incorporates Tencel Modal fibres sourced from certified sustainable forests, offering a renewable resource for enhanced environmental performance.
The fabric also uses Susterra Propanediol, a bio-based resin sourced from US dent corn, promoting regenerative agriculture and renewable feedstock without competing with food supply or agricultural land use. Repreve recycled polyester and Ecovero sustainable rayon fibres have also been used in the backcloth of AV Bio.
