Intertek, a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide, plans expansion of its textile testing capabilities in the U.S. as the result of investments in new equipment at Intertek's textile testing laboratory in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Also with the launch of new services for the fast growing active wear sector. These services, which include evaluating evaporation/drying rates, water vapor transmission rates and antibacterial/antifungal properties, are new to the U.S. market and offer manufacturers of activewear, furniture and outdoor fabrics a more efficient, timely testing option.

The new machines at Intertek allow experts in the lab to evaluate performance properties of fabrics for water vapor permeability and drying rates, as well as how they respond to variations in temperature and humidity. This information can be used to verify claims of breathability, quick dry and antibacterial qualities in textiles used for various products. These new capabilities complement existing activewear testing services for wicking, windproofing and UV protection properties and, combined with Intertek's antimicrobial center of excellence in Columbus, Ohio, allows the Company to offer a full spectrum of textile evaluation and technical support across multiple industries.

Gregg Tiemann, Executive Vice President at Intertek commented that at Intertek, their priority has always been providing their customers with innovative solutions to help support functional and performance claims of their products in order to improve their competitive position. Bringing these textile capabilities to the U.S. and building off their existing textile services will help customers in the region leverage their services and expertise in order to bring in-demand fabrics to the industry more quickly and easily.

Consumer demand is shifting to high-performance fabrics for clothing, furniture and outdoor equipment. Intertek’s services evaluate performance qualities against promotional claims and industry benchmarking and standards, making it possible for customers to work with a third-party lab to assure products meet these demands. The new services complement the Intertek’s existing U.S. textile services analyzing fibers, restricted chemicals, dimensional stability, colorfastness and flammability.

The services provided by Intertek help customers meet consumer demand, minimize reputational risk and reduce environmental impact, while protecting the interests of retailers, brands, manufacturers and consumers.

Intertek performs textile testing on items ranging from fabric samples to finished products, including activewear, apparel, accessories, soft home furnishings, linens and outdoor products.