Owens-Corning (European HQ: Chaussee de la Hulpe 178, B-1170 Brussels) has announced the development of "Miraflex" fibre, the first new form of fibre glass in nearly 60 years. The development of "Miraflex" fibre ensures Owens-Corning maintains its technological leadership of the massive fibre glass industry. According to Glen Hiner, chairman and ceo of the Toledo, Ohio-based corporation, the company believes the material has the potential to "revolutionise" the $ 3bn insulation industry and compete eventually with synthetic, petroleumbased and even natural fibres. More than 30 patents on the new fibre and its applications have been issued or are pending in the US, and the company is actively seeking patent protection worldwide. "Miraflex" fibre is composed of two different forms of glass fused together in a single filament. It is the first glass fibre that successfully holds up under typical textile processes like carding and needling. "Unlike traditional, straight glass fibre, Miraflex fibres are randomly twisted, flexible, soft to the touch and virtually itch-free", said Warren Knowlton, president, Building Products, Europe. "This October the first application, a home attic insulation, will be introduced in select North American markets."

READER SERVICE: Further details on "Miraflex" in a press release of Owens-Corning (English): PIE-No. 37043.