Crystal International Group Limited (“Crystal International” or the “Group”) continues to lead innovation in textile technology. The Group has partnered with the Hong Kong Productivity Council (“HKPC”), a globally recognized research institute with nearly 20 years of expertise in nanomaterials and industrial applications, to advance thermal clothing using cutting-edge graphene electrothermal technology – specifically reduced graphene oxide (“r-GO”). Supported by funding from the Innovation and Technology Commission, the collaboration aims to enhance r-GO composite coating by optimizing electrical conductivity for maximum heat generation. Using a precision smart-screen-printing system, the additive is seamlessly integrated into garments, boosting electrothermal efficiency and reducing production costs. This pioneering solution creates a new generation of thermal clothing, improving productivity, lowering resource use, and enhancing Hong Kong’s global competitiveness. The project began in 2021 and has gone through two major phases. During Phase 1, Crystal International’s knits division participated as the Industry Co-Applicant, providing sponsorship and technical expertise to develop multifunctional fabrics with graphene coating for smart wearable applications, in partnership with HKPC and The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (“HKRITA”). Integrated with power devices and voltage supply, the r-GO material enables electrothermal performance in thermal clothing. With HKPC’s technology authorization, Crystal International secured a utility model patent in China upon completing the development stage. In Phase 2, launched in 2023 under the Public Sector Trial Scheme led by HKPC, the focus shifted to garment production and real-world trials. Prototypes and electrothermal clothing samples were fabricated and tested in elderly care homes, including Tung Wah Group of Hospitals’ Wong Cho Tong Day Care Centre for the Elderly. These wearer trials confirmed the practical application of electrothermal clothing for enhancing warmth and comfort. The garments successfully passed lab tests for durability, electrical safety, and skin compatibility. !assets/images/image012.jpg “image012”) Feedback from 100 elderly users revealed a high level of satisfaction, with garments achieving a rapid heating rate of 30°C in just two minutes. Users scored the clothing an average of 8.3 out of 9 for warmth, uniformity of heating, usability, and durability. Danny Cheng, General Manager – Technical Service and Support at Crystal International, said,

“We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this project that not only showcases our excellence to innovation but also addresses the needs of flexible electrothermal fabric in the industry. By leveraging advanced technology in textiles, we aim to improve the quality of life for the groups who are in need while promoting sustainable fashion practices.” The flexible r-GO composite fabric also has potential for broader applications, including heated shoe insoles and therapeutic heat bandages. Crystal International is actively exploring commercialization opportunities and remains committed to driving textile innovation alongside industry stakeholders.