Microban International, a pioneer in product protection solutions, has launched H2O Shield, a water-resistant finish free of PFAS and PFOS, specialised for textiles and inspired by growing concerns about the environmental and health impacts of traditional textile treatments. H20 Shield also represents a new area of development for Microban beyond their established legacies in antimicrobial and odour-control technologies.
The H2O Shield line spans four formulations, WR1000 to WR1003, each aimed at different treatments for textiles from tents to sports apparel.
WR1000 is an unbranded general-purpose WR product for all low contact items, like shower curtains and awnings. WR1001 is an apparel-specific treatment aimed at water-sweat apparel with wicking requirements. WR1002 is a colorless treatment aimed at managing visual defects with respect to chalking and color change on dark fabrics. WR1003 is for item durability and aimed at improving tear-resistance and seam durability for backpacks and other similar items.
For textiles that are more challenging to treat, Microban offers an optional pretreatment, WR-P, that has increased wash durability and reduced chemical consumption by about 20 per cent.
The technology is said to provide an AATCC TM22 spray repellency rating of 80 or more and provides durability after 20 or more home washing cycles. Compatibility with standard textile manufacturing practices promotes industry adoption.
The launch of H2O Shield reinforces the textile industry’s shifting future toward sustainable alternatives, as scrutiny increases into the environmental effects of chemical finishes applied to product categories for consumers.
