RISE® 2025 Innovation Award Finalists Announced by INDA

INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has revealed the three finalists for the 2025 RISE® Innovation Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates cutting-edge innovations using nonwoven materials with the potential to transform the industry.

The 2025 RISE® Technology Conference will be held October 14–15 at the McKimmon Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. The event will bring together technology scouts, product developers, and business leaders across the nonwoven value chain to explore the latest research, connect with industry experts, and see the competing technologies in action.

The three finalists will present their innovations on October 14, with the winner announced on October 15.

Meet the 2025 RISE® Award Finalists:

1. EsterCycle by EsterCycle
Hospitals and laboratories produce massive volumes of PPE nonwoven waste, much of which is incinerated. EsterCycle offers a cost-effective, low-emission chemical recycling solution capable of processing mixed polyester nonwovens, even with biohazard contamination. The process breaks down polyester materials such as PET and biobased polyesters like PLA and PHA for reintegration into the supply chain, closing the loop on essential healthcare and lab materials.

2. Kelsun® Fiber by Keel Labs
Keel Labs introduces Kelsun®, the world’s first high-performance seaweed-based fiber that is plastic-free and tree-free. This sustainable innovation boasts extreme softness, high absorption, antimicrobial and flame-resistant properties, and unmatched biodegradability, all without shedding harmful microplastics. Fully compatible with existing nonwoven manufacturing systems, Kelsun® represents the next generation of sustainable materials for consumer and industrial applications.

3. Fentanyl Detection Wipe by Rockline Industries
Rockline Industries has developed an innovative fentanyl detection wipe that shifts color from orange to deep red upon contact with trace amounts of fentanyl. Designed to help first responders, law enforcement, and other personnel identify toxic opioids safely, the wipe’s unique formula uses color indicators bound to viscose fibers to ensure an immediate on-surface reaction. Successfully tested with pharmaceutical and illicit fentanyl in U.S. labs and police departments, the single-use sachet provides a fast and convenient presumptive test, with potential expansion to detect other hazardous opioids.

The RISE® Innovation Award honors innovations that utilize nonwovens or engineered fabrics in a creative, technically advanced, and feasible way, with the potential to significantly impact the industry.

Previous Winner:
The 2024 award went to PlantPanel™ X by Hempitecture Inc., a 100% biobased, rigid continuous insulation solution designed for exterior applications. Offering an R-value of 3.25 per inch and excellent acoustic properties, PlantPanel™ X is easy to install, safe to handle, and supports sustainable building practices.

For registration and more information on the 2025 RISE® Technology Conference, visit www.riseconf.net.