Swiss speciality chemicals marketer, Archroma said it has launched Smartrepel Hydro line, a water repellent agent for outdoor clothing for polyester, polyamide and cotton-based textiles.
“Smartrepel Hydro water repellent agents extend the benefits of high-performing, nature-friendlier protection to the full spectrum of fibres used in the outdoor segment,” Archroma said in a press release.
“A novel technology that is not based on fluorine chemistry, PFC, PFOA, PFOS or solvents, the Smartrepel Hydro product range supports the Joint Roadmap towards ZHDC, Bluesign and Oeko-Tex, it added.”
Smartrepel Hydro achieves a level of performance for cotton and synthetic fibres and blends as yet unattainable with alternative non-fluorine solutions, and similar to C6-based solutions.
Archroma’s micro-encapsulated technology uses a repelling agent and anchoring agent that together create a perfect symbiosis of water protection, breathability and durability.
Its high water repellence performance for cotton, polyester and polyamide is tested according to AATCC 22.
According to Archroma, the finish overcomes the limitations of comparable non-fluorine products currently available, and achieves a soft and bulky hand-feel and strengthens the fabric against abrasion.
These effects combine to create a durable, weatherproof garment that is flexible, soft to the touch and not sticky.
“Smartrepel Hydro’s protective properties last for more than 20 washing cycles, reaching the pinnacle of what is technically possible for any non-fluorine solution today,” it informed.
The range comprises Smartrepel Hydro CMD designed for cellulosic fibres and blends, and Smartrepel Hydro PM for synthetic fibres.
“With its strong eco-profile, supported by recognised eco-certificates, Smartrepel Hydro now offers a positive alternative to conventional fluorocarbon-based water repellency products,” said Georg Lang at Archroma.
