Kodak happy to be part of antimicrobial textile spin-off
15/11/2013
PurThread has obtained a globally exclusive agreement to embed an antimicrobial agent from Kodak into textile materials. The process embeds Kodak’s antimicrobial agent into synthetic fibres, before the fibre is spun so that the antimicrobial functionality will last the life of the product. Kodak has developed this proprietary antimicrobial technology from its expertise in developing photosensitive materials for use in photography.
Founded in 1888, Kodak went on to build a dominant position for itself in the photographic film market in the course of the twentieth century. However, it reacted slowly to the transition to digital technology, despite having come up with the core technology that most digital cameras use, and had to seek bankruptcy protection in 2012. It emerged from bankruptcy protection measures in September 2013, having sold off many parts of its business; it has said it will now focus on imaging solutions and services for businesses, with antimicrobial solutions for textiles perhaps one of the most unexpected spin-offs.
“The antimicrobial technology sector is an exciting new venture for Kodak,” said Tom McHugh, general manager of materials technology and business development for the company’s digital printing and enterprise segment. “Because of PurThread’s manufacturing process and expertise in the textile industry, we are delighted to be working with them to bring to market products using our propriety materials and technology. We look forward to building on this relationship with PurThread.”
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