Archroma, a global leader in colour and specialty chemicals, has introduced Smartrepel Hydro AM to its range of highly biodegradable, non-PFC based durable water repellent protection, the Smartrepel Hydro series at ISPO in Munich this weekend.

Smartrepel Hydro is said to be a nature-friendlier protection agent based on distinctive micro-encapsulated, highly biodegradable, non-PFC based technology offering exceptional, durable water repellence to polyester, polyamide and cotton-based textiles.

With the increasing demand for more sustainable clothing and gear, Smartrepel Hydro water repellent agents extend the benefits of high-performing, nature-friendlier protection to the full spectrum of fibres used in today’s outdoor and sportswear segments.

With Smartrepel Hydro AM, Archroma offers to brands, retailers and textile manufacturers a new, ‘universal’ water repellent protection that is applicable on all fibres - cotton and synthetic, and their blends.

Smartrepel Hydro AM comes with a new advanced formulation.

• The new grade offers the signature Smartrepel Hydro high performance standard: a perfect symbiosis of water protection, breathability and durability – with the soft hand-feel that is sought after by consumers
• The durability of the effect can be ‘boosted’ up with the application of a special formula, allowing brands and retailers to offer high performance gear to their brand fans
• For textile manufacturers, the new formulation shows improved runnability and reduced roller build-up, allowing seamless application in both pad and exhaust application processes

The range supports the increasing adoption of eco-advanced materials and production processes by brand owners and textile producers adhering to industry initiatives such as the ØZDHC program or eco-label standards such as bluesign and Oeko-Tex.

“This advanced version of our Smartrepel technology combines, into one product only, two benefits that are sought after by outdoor brands and retailers: a nature-friendlier chemistry, together with long-lasting, efficient water repellence for all fibres. Smartrepel Hydro AM brings onto the market a positive alternative to conventional fluorocarbon-based water repellence products,” comments Georg Lang, Global Head of Product Marketing Finishing, Textile Specialties, at Archroma.

www.smartrepel.com