Schoeller and Clariant present improved NanoSphere
Following the signing of a distribution partnership between Schoeller Technologies AG, patent owner of NanoSphere, and Clariant International Ltd. last September, a new and improved NanoSphere has been launched.
The new finish is said to produce top results in terms of self-cleaning, oil and water repellency, abrasion resistance and washing permanence. Using the most modern C6 fluorocarbon technology, it is also free of PFOA and PFOS. It also meets the specifications of the bluesign standard.
According to Peter Waeber, CEO of bluesign technologies ag, it is particularly important in the context of nanotechnology to offer a "controlled and controllable product." For example, a specially developed coating matrix ensures that the millions of nanoparticles on the fabric's surface cannot come adrift. As such, there is no danger that they will dissolve during washing, dry cleaning or ironing. In addition, today's nanoparticles are thermostable up to 1700°C.
Examination undertaken by the Hohenstein Research Institute confirmed consistently positive properties. Even after mechanical exposure to 5,000 abrasion cycles and 30 wash cycles (with subsequent heat treatment), the finish is certified as having a high and lasting level of hydrophobic and oleophobic properties.
"The new NanoSphere finish is undoubtedly a nanotechnology," confirms Dr Jan Beringer, the institute’s head of testing and director of the textile services and innovations department. "We also tested the biological safety in terms of possible biological activity (cytotoxicity and genotoxicity or HET-CAM). NanoSphere passed all tests with excellent ratings and is safe."
