Archroma, Huntsman in textile alliances

Archroma and Huntsman Textile Effects have both announced alliances in textile technology. The former has joined Jeanologia to launch the Pad-Ox G2 Cold dyeing process, while the latter has formed a strategic partnership with Sciessent in antimicrobial and odour-control technology.

Pad-Ox G2 Cold is the result of months of work by Archroma and textile technology firm Jeanologia to improve the existing Pad-Ox dyeing technology in terms of temperature and fastness. It operates with much less water, carbon footprint and energy than traditional fabric finishing processes.

This is described as “a binder-free technology to obtain end articles that are softer and have greater colour durability to repetitive washing and solidity against rubbing than other wash-out processes”. It works via the insertion of very small machinery into the existing finishing range process, using cold processing.

Pad-Ox itself combines the oxidation and fixation steps, thus shortening the dyeing process and leading to savings in water, wastewater, cotton and energy. It was originally introduced for woven fabrics and was later used as part of Archroma’s Advanced Denim concept. Archroma has since worked with textile manufacturers and others to improve the process, particularly in woven applications like chinos and casual wear.

Under its deal with Sciessent, Huntsman Textile Effects will become the exclusive distribution partner of Sciessent’s Agion Antimicrobial, Lava XL anti-odour system and dual-action Active XL. These are all Bluesign-approved and listed on the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Foundation Gateway, complying with ZDHC Level 3 requirements. T

he companies added that these systems are easily integrated into the finishing process and can be combined with a range of other finishes, including Huntsman Textile Effects’ durable water repellents and comfort systems.