Date:12/06/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/06/12/stories/2005061201800200.htm

Back NID in pact with Institute of Plasma Research

Our Bureau

Ahmedabad , June 11

YOU may soon not have to worry about Angora wool sweaters shedding fibre continuously.

The National Institute of Design (NID) has tied up with Gandhinagar-based Institute of Plasma Research for application of plasma technology to textiles and other innovative product applications.

"For technology to be of any use to people, there is a need for design. It is with this in mind that we have decided to partner with the Institute of Plasma Research to develop products that have commercial value," said the NID Director, Dr Darlie O Koshy.

Plasma technology will be used to bind Angora wool fabrics better. This is being backed by the Central Wool Development Council and the Department of Science and Technology.

A pilot plant is being set up at Kullu in Himachal Pradesh to produce treated wool.

"At a later date, a second plant may come up at Pithoragarh in Uttaranchal, one of the major rearing centres for the Angora breed of rabbits that produce the wool. Even the Indian Army has shown interest in the project," said the Director of the Institute of Plasma Research, Dr P.K. Kaw.

The plasma treatment will cost an additional Rs 100 per kg of fabric. Given the benefits in terms of reduced losses and better fabric quality, the additional cost is well justified, an NID official said.

A kg of Angora wool costs Rs 700-800.