Green Theme Technologies (GTT), a global leader in innovative and sustainable textile finishing headquartered in the US,  has launched Empel DSR to provide long-lasting stain protection for a wide spectrum of textiles. According to the company, the protective treatment outperforms other C6 and C0 solutions now available and is free of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS).

Various stains were put to polyester and acrylic textiles typically used in upholstery and outdoor furniture, including mustard, red wine, coffee, salad dressing, suntan oil, and motor oil. The stains were let sit for 24 hours. The contaminated samples were then washed in cold water with liquid detergent in a household washing machine for one cycle. Following the AATCC 130 stain guidelines, the post-laundry scores demonstrate outstanding results. Empel DSR continues to release new stains after 20 wash cycles, according to GTT.

An ultra-fine protective polymer encases each fiber inside a yarn during the process. This polymer barrier keeps stains from getting into the fibers and sticking to the fabric. In a regular cold-water laundry cycle, the stains are more easily removed.

GTT vice president Martin Flora, said that the idea was to securely protect materials from stains for simpler cleaning at lower temperatures. Empel DSR also assists manufacturers in developing long-lasting, sustainable products by protecting the fabric from frequent deep penetrating stains that can degrade the appearance of upholstered furniture and clothes.

GTT's Empel DSR has multiple uses across industries and around the world and is certified by Oeko Tex for general environmental safety and by Bureau Veritas as PFAS-free. It is now available through a limited number of partner brands.