INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has recognized Thomas W. Federle, Ph.D., research fellow at Procter & Gamble, with its prestigious 2015 Lifetime Technical Achievement Award.
 
INDA President David Rousse presented the award at the association’s Annual Meeting & Leadership Conference Feb. 23-25, in Hilton Head, SC. INDA’s Lifetime Technical Achievement Award is given to individuals with long established technical careers in the nonwovens industry and a history of technical innovation.
 
Federle was recognized for his career involvement and commitment to bringing science-based approaches to flushability issues in the nonwovens industry.
 
His research to modify biodegradation tests of flushable wipes have been instrumental in effectively measuring behavioral and disintegration properties for proper disposal of these products, which represent a rapidly growing nonwovens segment of consumer products.
 
During his 32-year career, Federle has served on a variety of editorial boards, scientific review panels, and as an adjunct professor making significant advancements and contributions to the nonwovens industry.
 
“Tom Federle’s dedication to the scientific method is an inspiration to us all in the nonwovens industry. His tireless efforts and involvement with nonwovens and flushability issues has been invaluable. INDA is pleased to recognize Tom’s contributions and services to our industry and the people it serves,” says Rousse.
 
Federle joined Procter & Gamble’s Environmental Science Department in 1985 and is responsible for assessing the environmental fate, exposure, and safety of P&G materials. Prior to that, he was on the faculty at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and also did research at Florida State University. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati.