Singapore-based dye and chemical provider Huntsman Textile Effects (HTE) has introduced the Phobotex® range of fluorine-free rain-repellent and stain-management textile finishes designed for a variety of end-use applications including rainwear, activewear, pants, careerwear, awnings, tarpaulins, boat covers, outdoor furnishings and shower curtains.
The Phobotex range — designed to complement HTE's Phobol® CP short-chain C6 fluorocarbons sold under the Teflon® trademark — are hydro polymer finishes that offer a soft hand and durable water-based rain repellency and stain-management effects that last for up to 30 washes at 40°C and higher, according to the company. Some products in the range also provide a stain-release effect after washing as well as moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.
Phobotex finishes are compatible with other textile finishes, according to Huntsman, and comply with Oeko-Tex® and bluesign® standards; align with the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals joint roadmap; and are free of chemicals on the American Apparel & Footwear Association's Restricted Substances Lists.
