Thai Acrylic Fibre Co. Ltd (TAF) and Switzerland’s Sanitized AG have announced the signing of a co-branding agreement and licensing program for Amicor fibres. Amicor will unveil the new Biocidals Product Directive (BPD) compliant fibres and yarns under the slogan “Breathe easily and relax” at Heimtextil 2013 which takes place from 9-12 January in Frankfurt.

The new alliance covers the co-branding of future product developments using Amicor fibres and yarns and the Sanitized hygiene function.

The Amicor anti-bacterial and anti-fungal intelligent fibre integrated technology was developed by Courtaulds/Acordis (UK) in 1998 and is specifically designed to incorporate the functional antimicrobial additive into the core of the fibre. The additive is added to the fibre polymer before it is spun, containing it within the unique fibre structure rather than acting as a surface coating. According to Amicor, when the fibre is used at the recommended blend level it ensures durable and effective protection of the entire fabric.

Under the new agreement, the Sanitized antimicrobial hygiene function is built-in to all Amicor fibres. This enables users of Amicor fibres and yarns to achieve the protection, comfort and freshness associated with the Sanitized Quality Seal for a wide range of fabrics and garments. Applications include mattresses and bedding, carpets and soft furnishings, hospital and healthcare uniforms, innerwear and sportswear, socks, towels and wipes.

Amicor says, as a non-topical application, there is minimal loss of the hygiene function additive to the environment during manufacture, during yarn and fabric processing, dyeing and finishing and in final consumer use and laundering. In addition to BPD compliance, Amicor fibres feature OEKO-TEX Class 1 certification.

“Innovation has always been the trademark of the Amicor brand, as has our strong emphasis on human and environmental safety”, comments Ambrish Maheshwari, CEO of the Acrylic Fibres Business of Aditya Birla Group.

“This shared philosophy with Sanitized, a brand at the forefront of antimicrobial protection, made the creation of an alliance a logical progression for both companies. We are looking forward to working together on new product developments in the future.”

“Both Sanitized AG and Thai Acrylic Fibre believe this alliance will strengthen our respective product offering in addition to opening up new markets,” adds Urs Stalder, CEO of Sanitized AG. “From a geographical perspective, each company offers market opportunities through their strong and complimentary market presence.”

www.amicorpure.co.uk