SILVADUR a sustainable solution developed for textile sector

October 01, 2012 - United States Of America

Dow Microbial Control (DMC), a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company, has introduced SILVADUR Antimicrobial, a revolutionary microbial control technology that provides long-lasting freshness and reliable protection against unwanted bacteria that can cause unpleasant odors, decay, rot and discoloration in textile fabrics.

SILVADUR brings an unmatched level of reliability and durability to antimicrobial performance, outperforming any antimicrobial product available on the market today. It combines the outstanding efficacy and safety of silver – a trusted antimicrobial agent for more than 2,000 years – with an innovative polymeric delivery system that delivers silver ions onto fabric surfaces in a controlled and intelligent manner when undesirable bacteria is present. SILVADUR performs intelligently at each stage of the supply chain.

Manufacturers can create items that offer unmatched performance with intelligent protection at reduced dosages using standard formulations and applications, while brand owners and retailers can design products that feature intelligent freshness and remain active through 50 washings or more. And consumers can feel secure in knowing their garments provide intelligent "freshness" that won’t harm them or the environment.

The technology’s unique delivery system is the only credible and reliable alternative to the traditional, often costly and problematic use of silver particle-based technologies. In addition, SILVADUR’s polymeric nature, low dosage profile and formulation composition make it a viable alternative to existing silane quat-based technologies for retailers and brand owners selecting antimicrobial finishing treatments and/or treated articles.

"Based on Dow’s long-time leadership and expertise in microbial technology and the results of our extensive third-party testing, we’re confident that SILVADUR technology offers game-changing potential for fabric and textile manufacturers, retailers, brand owners and consumers of sports and fitness apparel, socks, intimate apparel and home textiles," said Karel Williams, global strategic marketing manager for Dow Microbial Control.

"We’re eager to provide samples to potential manufacturing and brand partners around the world so they can see SIILVADUR’s highly efficient and performance-based benefits firsthand. Research demonstrates that consumers are willing to pay more for textile products offering improved freshness, and SILVADUR’s numerous benefits help increase the value of textiles, apparel and garments treated with the product."

SILVADUR antimicrobials are offered in an easy-to-apply liquid formulation and can be processed in multiple methods, including pad and exhaust applications. SILVADUR products are compatible with both natural and synthetic fibers, and a broad range of common textile chemical additives, detergents and other finishing treatments. SILVADUR also has been assessed and certified by the International Oeko-Tex Association. The products are registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and their active ingredient is notified and supported under the EU Biocidal Products Registry (BPR). In addition, the SILVADUR technology is registered to meet REACH requirements in the European Union.

In keeping with Dow’s longstanding commitment to providing sustainable solutions for the planet, SILVADUR Antimicrobial performs extremely well from a sustainability perspective. In extensive testing, SILVADUR’s technology has proved highly effective in protecting fabrics from odor-causing and other nuisance microorganisms. SILVADUR-treated articles are non-sensitizing and non-irritating to humans. In addition, SILVADUR does not release silver particulates into the environment. The product is also recyclable and reusable during processing applications due to its inherent stability to light and water solubility. Finally, SILVADUR helps processing plants reduce their overall raw material purchases and usage of energy and water.

Dow Microbial Control is marketing SILVADUR Antimicrobial worldwide using sales and technical marketing teams that are deployed locally to provide focused and flexible customer support.