Prospects of Using the Cluster Approach in the Production of Composite Textile Materials
The article deals with the production and consumption of textile-based composite materials. The characteristics of various types of composite materials are given: on the basis of knitted and woven fabrics, woven and non-woven fabrics. It is established that at present there is a significant potential for the development of the textile industry in this direction. It is determined that for its implementation it is necessary to ensure the interaction of science, business, the state; the development of medium and small industries, their interaction with local communities; solving the problem of waste recycling; accounting and assessment of the impact on the sustainable development of both the industry and the country. The organization and management of these processes can be successfully carried out on the basis of a cluster approach. Currently, 7 composite clusters are successfully operating in Russia. The analysis of their activities revealed the most promising areas, which include the implementation of complex innovative and investment projects, cooperation in scientific and industrial fields, the possibility of recycling textile waste and the use of clean technologies, industrial symbiosis and the development of by-products. For 3 clusters (the Composite cluster of St. Petersburg, the Moscow composite Cluster and the Interregional Industrial Cluster "Composites without Borders"), measures have been developed to improve the production of textile composite materials. They involve the use of the experience of the Nordic countries and EU countries, the use of textile waste in the production of composites, the creation of medium and small specialized enterprises network, the growth of domestic and export markets, the use of state support for the development of composites production and consumption. These events, for example, in St. Petersburg are proposed to be carried out on the basis of cooperation of St. Petersburg clusters (composite and clean technologies for the urban environment) within the framework of the Interregional Eco-Industrial Park of Clean Technologies.