Green Theme Technologies, makers of PFC-free and WATER-free Empel textile treatments such as molecular water repellency, announces its development and final testing results for stain protection
Green Theme Technologies Inc., a global leader in innovative and sustainable textile finishing, announced that new third-party testing shows the brand’s EMPEL platform provides robust stain release and creates a protective PFC-free treatment that outperforms other currently available options.
GTT launched the EMPEL platform in 2018 with the goal of eliminating toxic PFCs (perflurocarbons) from textile processing. In addition to being highly sustainable, EMPEL delivers the highest water repellency and longest lasting protection available.
The EMPEL Stain Release product encapsulates each fiber inside a yarn with a molecular protective polymer, which creates a barrier preventing stains from sticking to fabrics.
According to GTT VP Martin Flora, “The purpose of the EMPEL stain release is to extend the usable life cycle of any fabric treated with EMPEL, to reduce the amount of energy needed to launder fabrics, and to protect the fabric from common deep penetrating stains that typically ruin the appearance of furniture, upholstery and apparel.”
Tested by Oeko Tex, the chemistry is certified safe and PFC-free. From outdoor furniture to children’s products such car seats and strollers, GTT’s stain protection has numerous applications across industries and around the globe.
The six-month trials conducted in the GTT lab in Albuquerque will move EMPEL forward as an extremely viable option for mills to apply stain and oil protection to many types of fabrics. The goal is to protect fabrics for easier cleaning at lower temperatures. Stains, such as ketchup, red wine, salad dressing, suntan oil, and motor oil, were applied on poly and acrylic fabrics commonly used in upholstery and outdoor furniture. Researchers let the stain sit for 24 hours, then brushed off the residue. The sample was then placed in a test washing machine and run for a single cycle in cold water. The results are rated using the ASTM standard.
Empel stain release is currently undgergoing trials with select furniture brands.
