Conference Speakers

Carmen Covelli, Ph.D.

Technical Laureate, Celanese Corporation

BIOGRAPHY

Carmen A. Covelli, graduated in 1982 from Lehigh University with a BS in Chemical Engineering. After receiving her PhD in Polymer Science and Engineering at University of Massachusetts, she worked at DuPont, INVISTA and is currently working at Celanese. Research project areas include process/structure/property and fiber spinning on polyester, nylon, polyurethane, and polyaramid. She has worked on a broad range of technical assignments in Composites, Kevlar® ballistics, carpet, stretch fabrics and stretch adhesive tapes. She has worked on and led R&D innovations and commercialization including Sorona® polymer, Kevlar® KM2 fiber and ballistic armor, T-400™ fiber, Lycra® 2.0 Tape, Crastin® and Rynite® Engineering Polyester Resins and most recently Neolast™ Elastoester. She is an inventor on over 20 patent applications and filings.

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Elastoester Polymer Enabling Sustainable Elastic Yarn and Fabrics

Neolast™ fiber is designed to offer elevated stretch performance while helping address sustainability challenges (including recyclability) associated with elastane, which is commonly referred to as spandex. Apparel designers can now create more sustainable power-stretch clothing that also delivers elite performance. Ðeolast(TM) fiber is melt spun using thermoplastic copolyester elastomer which is classified under the generic category of elastoester. The thermoplastic nature of the polymer enables melt processing, allowing fiber formation without the need for solvents. Celanese expertise in thermoplastic copolyester elastomer chemistry and formulation has led to innovation of two new grades of Neolast™ polymer created for fiber spinning.