Freudenberg Performance Materials has launched an Eco-calculator to help customers assess the suitability of its Evolon textile solutions for bedding and bath towels.

The new Eco-calculator provides an overview of the environmental impacts generated by Evolon solutions over their entire life cycle, from raw materials extraction through the laundering phases to product end-of-life. Eight environmental criteria, including carbon footprint, water impact and eco-toxicity, are evaluated.

The tool relies on data provided and validated by independent external experts, who conducted a Life Cycle Assessment focusing on textile applications such as bed linen, bath towels and workwear used in hotels and hospitals.

The Eco-calculator also takes account of data from washing tests to evaluate the durability and the consumption levels of water, energy and detergent required by the different fabrics. The testing programme simulated industrial wash cycles to assess twelve different textile articles. Each type of product was evaluated in terms of the water, energy and detergent consumption required for its care as well as its appearance and mechanical properties after washings.

“Our Evolon experts help our customers determine the scenarios they wish to evaluate, for example by varying the weight of the materials, the types of finish, the number of washing cycles, or the country of use,” said Jean-François Kerhault, Evolon business manager. “Based on this data, the Freudenberg experts provide an economic and environmental evaluation using the Eco-calculator. This information can help our customers to evaluate the environmental footprint of their own finished products. They can include the data in their own product eco-design approach or meet new market requirements about information on carbon footprint.”

Fabrics made with Evolon technology and Evolon New Generation are said to be ideally suited for use as bed linen, cover material for fibre-filled pillows and duvets, mite-proof encasings and bath towels. Evolon base fabrics have been granted Oeko-Tex 100 which certifies they are free of harmful substances and suitable for contact with baby skin.

Bedding items made from Evolon are also equipped with anti-mite properties without chemical treatment.

www.freudenberg-pm.com