The German company Fibertec, specialising in waterproofing technologies for clothing, equipment, and footwear, has developed a new environmentally friendly DWR product for waterproof, breathable clothing, GreenGuard RT, that does not require heat activation.

Self-activating at room temperature, it is said to save an energy intensive drying cycle. This is both practical and beneficial for the environment, the company reports. The unique patented PUR active ingredient is biodegradable (no PFCs).

Bluesign approved

Fibertec aims to develop environmentally friendly cleaning, care and waterproofing products, including packaging, goods and application.

The company has achieved a distinct further development with its GreenGuard RT with regards to sustainability. RT stands for room temperature, because room temperature is sufficient to activate this new DWR-product. It achieves a spray rating (i.e. how water repellent the material) of 85.

It is no longer necessary to use a tumble dryer, hair dryer or iron on the clothing, due to the product’s practicality and resource-efficiency. Yet, quickly heating the garment in the tumble dryer or using an iron will ensure maximum performance from GreenGuard RT, the manufacturer reports.

New active ingredient

The new active ingredient used exclusively by Fibertec is environmentally friendly and not hazardous to health, according to the company. This water-based, biodegradable product does not use perfluorocarbons (PFCs) but instead uses polyurethane dendrimers.

“This innovation has given us an excellent alternative to fluorine-based DWR products,” explained Guido Augustiniak, Fibertec Managing Director. “In comparison to the currently available GreenGuard, Green Guard RT offers an increased water repellent effect and a higher durability. Regular application greatly prolongs the performance and durability of waterproof, breathable clothing, while the product can be used with a clear conscience.”

Made in Germany

GreenGuard RT is bluesign approved and Made in Germany (product and packaging). It is suitable for all waterproof, breathable textiles and is available as Spray-On (500 ml trigger spray bottle without propellant) or Wash-In (250 ml bottle).

The spray-on is better suited to breathable clothing as the waterproofing is only applied externally. Conversely, the wash-in is easier to apply.

www.fibertec.info