HOUSTON, Aug. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumer demand, market challenges and the microbe-fighting power of zinc ions were among the topics discussed today at the Techtextil North America 2021 Symposium session "High Performance Fibers: From Concept to Market." In his talk "Innovation Is Not Linear," Kevin Urman, Ph.D., Ascend Performance Materials' fibers technology director, highlighted how the company's Acteev® technology grew from a small application experiment to a booming anti-odor textile platform.
"Just a few years ago, the antimicrobial textile market was limited to a few options, which due to colorfastness and sustainability shortcomings were not meeting market demand," Dr. Urman said. "We found that customers are increasingly eager for clothing and gear made with natural active ingredients such as zinc that is long-lasting and resistant to odor and mildew."
Proud recipient of a 2021 Outdoor Retailer Innovation Award, Acteev locks the environmentally safe antimicrobial protection of zinc ions within superior nylon 6,6, creating yarns and fabrics that naturally combat odor- and mildew-causing bacteria, mold and fungi. The technology protects textiles - from intimates to outerwear to sleeping bags and more - using one of nature's own elements.
Plus, unlike chemical applications that are coated or sprayed on, Acteev does not rely on any post-production treatment or after-market process. Instead, Acteev's zinc ions are embedded within the matrix of the molecule, providing protection throughout the life of the product. This means Acteev textiles require less water in the manufacturing process while ensuring they remain as effective as day one.
The Techtextil North America Symposium allows attendees to learn from industry leaders and subject matter experts as they discuss some of the most pivotal advancements in research and technology and shed light on the current global economic state and its effects across industries. The show's theme this year is "Accelerating Technology" and aims to highlight the textile industry's high level of innovation and contribution to the global supply chain through advanced technology.
About Acteev by Ascend Performance Materials
Ascend Performance Materials makes high-performance materials for everyday essentials and new technologies. Our focus is on improving quality of life and inspiring a better tomorrow through innovation. Based in Houston, Texas, and with regional offices in Shanghai, Brussels and Detroit, we are a fully integrated material solutions provider with eight global manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe and China. Our 2,600-person global workforce makes materials that support safer vehicles, cleaner energy, better medical devices, smarter appliances and longer-lasting apparel and consumer goods. We are committed to safety, sustainability and the success of our customers and communities. Access our disclaimer.
About Acteev®: acteev.com
Acteev technology embeds active zinc ions into the matrix of the polymer. Unlike topical finishes or coatings, the zinc ions don't flake away, providing long lasting functionality. Acteev Protect fabrics, filtration media and engineered plastics deliver breakthrough protection for face masks, apparel, upholstery, air filters, high-touch surfaces and more. Microbes can cause products to deteriorate, discolor and smell bad. But Acteev's patent-pending technology offers a permanent solution that guards against the growth of unwanted odor-causing bacteria, fungi and microbes.
Contact: Nicki Britton, +1 832-205-4854, nbritt@ascendmaterials.com
SOURCE Ascend Performance Materials
