Clariant expands as its C6 chemistry Nuva® N increasingly gets the textile industry's approval

Singapore, 19 September 2012 - As one of the leading companies in the production of fabric repellency treatments, Clariant has increased its capacity to produce next-generation fluorochemicals at its plant in Gendorf, Germany. With an investment of 8 million euros supporting C6 chemistries, the plant will support new lines of Nuva® products and expand options for customers who are increasingly making the switch from traditional C8 products.

The development of C6 chemistry has been one of the positive outcomes of Clariant’s full focus on developing sustainable products, processes and solutions aligned with our Responsible Care commitment, stewardship principles and sustainability policy. This effort also furthers the progress Clariant has made in meeting its commitments under the EPA PFOA 2010/2015 Stewardship Program.

In support of these stewardship commitments Clariant fully reviewed Nuva polymer range and the highly effective repellency treatments manufactured by established C8 chemistry. The development of replacement products with high levels of efficacy and improved environmental profiles took high priority. These efforts resulted in the development of Nuva N. This advanced C6-based fluorochemical for sustainable repellency and release solutions is free from PFOA* and allows comparable performance to the established C8 chemistry.

“The C6-based technology of the Nuva N range ensures the excellent durability of the repellent effects,” comments Georg Lang, Head of Product Group Finishing, Business Unit Textile Chemicals, Clariant, “C6 products have therefore gained wide appreciation among our customers and, with this capacity increase, we are in the position to better serve their needs.”

Nuva N1811 – C6-based microencapsulated technology with high efficiency

In addition to increasing C6 production capacity in Germany, the company is now introducing Nuva N1811 as the latest cost-competitive addition to this range, with similar performance to existing C6 products.

“With its new microcapsule technology, there is no compromise in efficiency with Nuva N1811. The technology combines a number of benefits,” says Lang. “Conventional fluorochemicals, for example, usually impart a ‘paper-like’ feel to fabrics, since the process significantly hardens the fibers. This, in turn, can have an effect on the abrasion and tear strength of the treated fabric. Nuva N1811, however, imparts a softer hand to fabrics and doesn’t cause a negative impact on abrasion resistance and tear strength,” says Lang.

“We believe these new additions to the C6 product line will convince even more textile manufacturers to adopt Clariant’s C6 Nuva line and move away from conventional C8 products, hence the decision to further boost our production capacity in Germany.”

* (below limit of detection)