Huntsman launches PFC-free durable water repellent

Dyes and chemicals specialist, Huntsman, has released PHOBOTEX R-ACE, a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) that enables mills and brands to produce high-performance outdoor and extreme sports clothing and daily wear while fulfilling demanding environmental regulations and optimizing production flow.

PHOBOTEX R-ACE repels water well on all sorts of fibers. PHOBOTEX R-ACE has exceptional compatibility with resin finishing to enable uniform application with unrivaled performance on cellulosic fibers, in addition to its remarkable performance on synthetic fibers and blends. It provides exceptional rain and splash protection for water-resistant and windproof clothes, even in the worst situations. Furthermore, it repels common stains such as dirt, coffee, ketchup, and juice, allowing clothing to stay clean for longer. Textiles coated with PHOBOTEX R-ACE are breathable, keep their soft handling, and maintain their appearance and performance even after repeated laundering and drying.

Lutfu Okman, vice president of global revenue, Huntsman Textile Effects, said that there is a rising global need for clothing that provide high-performance weather protection and stain resistance while also being more sustainable. It has been difficult to achieve these characteristics simultaneously because existing non-fluorinated DWR processes might have undesirable side effects that affect fabric quality. Using Huntsman Textile Effects’ research expertise and global operational experience, PHOBOTEX R-ACE is a true breakthrough that helps mills and brands deliver excellent water repellency with minimal impact on fabric performance.

PHOBOTEX R-strong ACE’s chemistry delivers great repellency with substantially less chemicals applied to the cloth than standard PFC-free DWRs on the market. This assists mills in minimizing undesirable effects like chalk stains, seam slippage difficulties, and harsh handling. The revolutionary DWR also has best-in-class runability, allowing for speedier, trouble-free manufacturing and high repeatability. Its exceptional resin compatibility allows uniform application with unmatchable performance on cellulosic fibers.

PHOBOTEX R-ACE, most importantly, fulfills existing and prospective industry requirements. PHOBOTEX R-ACE satisfies the bluesign criteria (imminent approval pending) and will be published on the ZDHC Gateway with Conformance Level 3, making it eligible for Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified textile goods. It also complies with new bluesign requirements for 2-Butanone oxime in chemical goods, which go into effect in June 2022.

PHOBOTEX R-ACE-treated textiles are eligible for the high IQ repel performance assurance system. With PHOBOTEX R-ACE, Huntsman Textile Effects cements its position as the industry’s DWR transition leader.