What role does the CSIR play?

South Africa is not a major player in the world of natural fibres. That does not mean, however, that we cannot be an innovative player with the resources we do have available. At the CSIR, researchers are investigating interesting and novel uses for natural fibres such as kenaf, flax, hemp, wool, silk, mohair and agave, as well as natural fibre reinforced composite materials for applications in the building, automobile and aerospace industries.

The bulk of fibre research focuses on nonwoven fibres while other areas of research involves fibre processing (technology around fibre preparation, spinning, winding, weaving and knitting), fibre modification (applying techniques to fibres to change their properties) and clothing technologies (enhancing comfort, sizing, fit and automation processes).

Through this research, the CSIR aims to enhance the competitive capabilities of the South African textile and clothing industries.