Huntsman Textile Effects, a global provider of dyes, chemicals and digital inks, has released PHOBOTEX R-ACE, a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) that makes it possible for mills and brands to deliver high-performance outdoor and extreme sports apparel and everyday wear while meeting strict environmental standards and optimising production flow.

PHOBOTEX R-ACE delivers excellent water repellenc on all types of fibres. In addition to its outstanding performance on synthetic fibres and blends, PHOBOTEX R-ACE offers excellent compatibility with resin finishing to ensure even application with unmatchable performance on cellulosic fibres. It offers outstanding rain and splash protection for garments that are water repellent and windproof, even under the toughest conditions. Additionally, it repels everyday stains, such as mud, coffee, ketchup and juice, so that garments stay cleaner for longer. Textiles treated with PHOBOTEX R-ACE are breathable, retain their soft handle and continue to look good and perform well through repeated laundering and drying.

“There is growing worldwide demand for garments that deliver high-performance weather protection and stain-resistance with improved sustainability. Achieving these attributes in concert has been challenging, as traditional non-fluorinated DWR technologies can have undesired side effects that impact fabric quality. Drawing on 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,” said Lutfu Okman, vice president of global revenue, Huntsman Textile Effects.

The robust chemistry of PHOBOTEX R-ACE achieves high repellency with significantly less chemicals added on to the fabric as compared to the typical PFC-free DWRs in the market. This helps mills minimise unwanted consequences like chalk marks, seam slippage issues and harsh handle. The breakthrough DWR also offers best-in-class runability, for faster trouble-free production and good reproducibility. Its excellent compatibility with resin finishing ensures even application with unmatchable performance on cellulosic fibres.

Critically, PHOBOTEX R-ACE meets current and upcoming industry standards. The new DWR is PFC-free and formaldehyde-free PHOBOTEX R-ACE meets the bluesign criteria (imminent approval pending) and will be published on the ZDHC Gateway with Conformance Level 3, and suitable for Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified textile products. It also meets new bluesign restrictions on 2-Butanone oxime in chemical products, which will come into effect in June 2022.

Textiles treated with PHOBOTEX R-ACE qualify for the high IQ repel performance assurance scheme. With PHOBOTEX R-ACE, Huntsman Textile Effects is affirmed as the leader of the industry’s DWR transition.