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Centers and Institutes

The Nonwovens Institute (NWI)

The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) is the world’s first accredited academic program for the interdisciplinary field of engineered fabrics. Based at the Centennial Campus of North Carolina State University in Raleigh, the NWI is an innovative global partnership between industry, government and academe. Operating on an “Open Innovation” platform, the Nonwovens Institute engages experts from industry and higher education in building next-generation nonwoven applications while also providing training and guidance to the field’s future leaders.

person working with nonwovens equipment

Textile Protection And Comfort Center (TPACC)

The Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC) incorporates a comprehensive infrastructure of equipment and personnel to address the need for integrated investigations on all aspects of the protection and comfort of clothing. TPACC is a broad base facility with unique scientific abilities that permit scientific evaluations of comfort and protection from fabric swatch level all the way to full ensemble systems.

Researchers utilize PyroMan to conduct firefighting gear tests.

Zeis Textiles Extension (ZTE)

Continuing education is key to staying competitive and enjoying long-term economic success in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing marketplace. The Zeis Textile Extension Education for Economic Development Center is dedicated to promoting economic success in North Carolina and the nation by being a leading provider of professional education.

two people working in spinning lab

Fashion and Textile Business Excellence Cooperative (FTBEC)

The Fashion and Textile Business Excellence Cooperative (FTBEC) partners cutting-edge academic research with the real-world experience of textile and apparel executives to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges. It provides companies in the textile and apparel industry with consulting services, training opportunities and articles breaking down industry trends from a research perspective.

Assistant Professor Helmut Hergeth stands in front of a screen displaying a presentation while looking at two students that have a laptop between them.