Outlast Technologies, market leader for temperature regulating phase change materials (PCMs), expands into new spheres and has introduced "Spherix", an innovative PCM filling material which is suited for use in apparel: The new blend from PCM viscose fibers and polyester fiber balls offers dynamic climate regulation and added comfort; for example in jackets.
What lies behind this new PCM filling material "Spherix" is that Outlast has already successfully gained experience in the bedding market with filling materials while being the pioneer in launching the first PCM polyester fiberfill produced on a large scale. For the "apparel" market Outlast takes a further step and combines for the first time fiber balls with a short cut fiber. The innovative fiber ball fiber (FBF) blend consists of 30% PCM viscose short cut fibers and 70% standard polyester balls. "We are working with a highly filled PCM viscose fiber," explains Martin Bentz, Managing Director of Outlast Europe GmbH, Heidenheim/Germany. "With 7 dtex the diameter of the viscose fiber is quite high, so we can reach an approximately four times higher performance compared to our standard PCM viscose fiber".
The benefits are evident: The new Outlast filling material is soft and breathable, thus offering the advantage of a dynamic heat management. When it gets too warm the Outlast fibers absorb excess body heat. When it is getting colder again, the performance fibers release the stored heat back to the wearer. The fiber balls provide lightness, volume and loft, while the PCM viscose fibers account for the temperature management function. And Outlast strengthens: The new PCM fiberfill regulates the climate proactively – in contrast with other technologies that only wick away humidity. Outlast technology proactively manages heat while controlling the production of moisture before it begins, so less humidity is produced inside the apparel.
This Outlast difference also results in more comfort. Interesting: While Outlast technology is often seen as a winter theme, "Spherix" opens a new addition for summer. Light outdoor wear or even summer quilted jackets will also offer a comfortable temperature regulation with "Spherix". First customer trials and test persons love the lightness and durability of the new material and are convinced that it is an added value to consumers. Functionality is an important factor to today's consumers and a lot of experts agree that "climate control" ranks towards the top.
