German specialty chemicals manufacturer CHT Group has developed a new solution for denim brands looking for a safer alternative to potassium permanganate. Lab 102, CHT Group’s denim innovation division, has launched OrganIQ Seek, an organic-based bleaching system designed to replace potassium permanganate in local spray bleaching applications on jeans.

OrganIQ Seek can be applied directly after enzyme or stone washing. It also allows garments to be treated while still wet, removing the need for an intermediate drying step and helping to reduce processing time and energy use.

According to Thomas Aplas, Head of Lab 102, the goal has always been to develop environmentally responsible solutions that also meet the practical needs of industrial denim finishing. He said the proven performance of OrganIQ Seek in spray bleaching marks an important step towards reducing and eventually replacing permanganate use in a technically and economically viable way.

Beyond spray bleaching, Lab 102 states that OrganIQ Seek can also be used in nebulisation systems for strong contrast effects, in washing machines for light blue bleaching, and in foam or other artisanal application methods, offering flexibility across denim finishing processes.