#Sustainability

2025-06-19

Microban unveils a portfolio of PFAS-free water-resistant textile technologies

Microban International, the leader in product protection solutions, announced the launch of H?O Shield, a PFAS- and PFOS-free water-resistant finish portfolio for textiles. This technology represents Microban’s first expansion outside of its traditional antimicrobial and odor control offerings, marking a significant growth of its capabilities.

Tailored solutions provide excellent water-repellency while addressing key concerns such as fabric chalk mark defects and seam slippage

Mbns25 Microban Technology H20 Shield SHIELD

H?O Shield is designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable, high-performance textile finishes and offers a consumer-friendly alternative for brands phasing out harmful chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This includes the class of chemicals, PFOS, well-known for their extensive use, persistence in the environment and potential health concerns.

The technology is customizable, offering four distinct repellent options tailored to meet specific aesthetic and performance needs of manufacturers and brands

1. WR1000: Best suited for overall water repellency in low-touch applications such as shower curtains, awnings and tents.

2. WR1001: Optimized for wicking performance for athletic and sweat-resistant apparel such as performance jackets, ski jackets and running fabrics.

3. WR1002: Formulated to address chalking defects and color shift issues on dark-colored fabrics prone to scratches, such as hiking gear and gloves.

4. WR1003: Helps to prevent tearing and is best suited for applications where seam slippage is a concern, such as backpacks and tents.

For fabrics that are traditionally difficult to treat, Microban offers an optional pretreatment, WR-P. This pretreatment expands fabric compatibility, reducing water-repellent agent dosage by 15-20% and increasing the wash durability of the treatment.

The technology provides excellent water resistance for textiles, achieving results of 80 or over on the AATCC TM22 spray repellency test. The finish has also been proven to maintain effectiveness even after 20+ home launderings.

Beyond water resistance, H?O Shield is designed to integrate seamlessly with other Microban technologies, including antimicrobial and odor control solutions.

“Microban provides a unique turnkey support structure, assisting our partners in combining finishing technologies while ensuring compliance and compatibility. Partners can also leverage our technical and testing support and trusted brand names,” said Microban International President Michael Ruby. “This synergy allows brands to deliver multi-functional performance with tailored solutions, protecting and extending the overall life of textile goods and delivering what consumers desire.”

H?O Shield technologies are applied using standard wet chemistry processes commonly found in textile manufacturing, such as pad baths. WR-P is applied as a last step during an exhaust process (after a dyeing cycle).

Pioneering open-source framework shows how early innovation drives a just and net-zero fashion future

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Lenzing confirmed as global leader in Canopy sustainability ranking

Lenzing AG has once again taken first place in this year's Hot Button Report published by the Canadian non-profit organization Canopy. With 34.5 out of 40 points and no known risk of sourcing from ancient and endangered forests, Lenzing remains one of the most sustainable companies in regenerated cellulose fiber production – setting a benchmark for responsible business practices in the textile and nonwovens industries.

Nike unites innovation, design and product teams to accelerate athlete-centered innovation

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DORNIER celebrates its anniversary at ITMA Asia + CITME

To mark its 75th anniversary, machine and plant manufacturer Lindauer DORNIER will be presenting the latest developments in its rapier and air-jet weaving machines at ITMA Asia + CITME in Singapore (Hall 2, Stand B401) from 28 to 31 October 2025. The focus will be on energy-efficient weaving technologies, new IoT solutions for networked textile production and systems for the series production of modern fibre composite components.

BCI warns against ‘dangerous dilution’ of EU corporate directives

The approval of the European Commission’s Omnibus I proposal by the European Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs, accepting controversial changes to key sustainability directives is of great concern. These changes, namely to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), threaten to significantly dilute business reporting and due diligence obligations.