Study examines polyolefins. (Nonwovens News).

A new market report describes polyolefin textiles as the most rapidly growing sector of the fibers and textiles industry in Europe. The study, produced by the European Association for Textile Polyolefins, Brussels, Belgium, provides an authoritative picture of the market in Europe for polypropylene and polyethylene textiles. With data including estimates for 2002, as well as definitive figures for 2001, the report shows clearly the scale of the market-1 .74 million tons (3.8 billion pounds), of which PP accounts for 95%, with volume growth of more than 80% since 1990. Fiber and textile uses are 26% of total PP usage in Europe. The largest end use for polyolefin textiles is floor covering with more than 40% of tufted carpets being made from polypropylene. The second largest application is hygiene and medical nonwovens, accounting for 18% of total usage. Other strong applications include apparel, agrotextiles and geotextiles. The study also points to strong growth in the future for polyolefin textiles in Europe .

EATP will be further exploring the conclusions of the market report during its annual Executive Seminar May 19-20 in Barcelona, Spain. More information: 32-2-676-74-72; Fax: [phone]; E-mail: [e-mail]