Switzerland-based HeiQ Materials AG — a manufacturer of silver composite additives and high-performance, sustainable textile finishes — reports that Switzerland-based outdoor apparel manufacturer R'ADYS AG's entire 2014 summer collection will be finished with its Barrier ECO fluorine-free durable water repellent (DWR) treatment.
The bluesign?-certified treatment offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to fluorine-based C8- and C6-based chemistry water-repellent technologies, according to HeiQ, and also provides good abrasion-resistance and imparts a soft hand.
HeiQ reports that R'ADYS is the first outdoor apparel manufacturer to have switched its entire collection to fluorine-free DWR technology. R'ADYS applies the Barrier ECO treatment using R-SONIC laser and adhesives technology.
"When R'ADYS approached us with their decision to go totally fluorine-free in such a short timeline HeiQ accepted the challenge to make it happen," said Carlo Centonze, CEO and founder, HeiQ. "The smooth partnership and open information exchange between R'ADYS, HeiQ and its partner mills resulted in what is today the most functional, performing and most sustainable outdoor apparel collection in the world - a must-have for every truehearted outdoor passionate."
