The apparent environmental focus for Archroma’s product development program has seen new product launches including a halogen-free flame retardant coating and a range of biosynthetic dyes. Now, the company are introducing an innovative water repellent for outdoor clothing with the launch of its Smartrepel Hydro line for polyester, polyamide and cotton-based textiles.
Smartrepel Hydro water repellent agents offer high-performing, environmentally friendly (when compared to other repellents) protection to the full spectrum of fibres used in today’s outdoor segment.
As a technology that is not based on fluorine chemistry – PFC, PFOA, PFOS or solvents – the Smartrepel Hydro product range supports the increasing adoption of eco-advanced materials and production processes by textile producers and brands adhering to industry initiatives, such as Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC), bluesign and Oeko-Tex.
Smartrepel Hydro achieves a level of performance for cotton and synthetic fibres and blends which Archroma said is currently 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 symbiosis of water protection, breathability and durability. Its high water repellence performance for cotton, polyester and polyamide is tested according to AATCC 22.
Archroma said that the finish overcomes the limitations of comparable non-fluorine products currently available on the market. That said, water repellent technology designed by OrganoClick AB has been adopted by fashion brand Filippa K, providing Archroma with some healthy competition.
Archroma said that Smartrepel Hydro water repellent achieves a soft and bulky hand-feel and strengthens the fabric against abrasion and tearing, without any yellowing, creating a durable, weatherproof garment that is flexible, soft to the touch and not sticky. In addition, Archroma claim that 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.
Georg Lang, global head of product marketing finishing, textile specialties, at Archroma, commented: “Smartrepel Hydro combines two benefits that were long awaited, especially by the outdoor textile segment: a nature-friendlier chemistry, together with long-lasting, efficient water repellency for both synthetic and cellulosic fibres. With its strong eco-profile, supported by recognized eco-certificates, and unmatched performance Smartrepel Hydro now offers the market a positive alternative to conventional fluorocarbon-based water repellency products.”
The range comprises Smartrepel Hydro CMD designed for cellulosic fibres and blends, and Smartrepel Hydro PM for synthetic fibres.