Devan Chemicals, the Belgium-based developer of finishing technologies for textiles, plans to launch two bio-based solutions – an antimicrobial (Biome Natural) and PCMs (Tones of Cool Bio) at the upcoming Heimtextil trade show in Frankfurt, Germany from January 7-10. The company already launched a bio-based flame retardant (Bio-flam) in May 2019.
Sustainability has always been a focus topic for Devan, even long before it became an urging issue. In 1995 the company launched Eco-flam, the first halogen-free flame retardant. Four years later they commercialised a non-migrating antimicrobial solution. In 2001 the Belgian firm developed a masterbatch technology for in-yarn solutions. Devan was also the first company to introduce probiotics in textiles (2010).
A drive towards the use of more sustainable products has led to the introduction of more alternative solutions to solve the discomfort of malodours and to reduce the allergens of dust mites.
“Many plants and flowers produce antimicrobial chemicals as a defence mechanism towards threats like bacteria, fungi and moulds. More and more natural antimicrobials are used in food and cosmetics as a preservative. Plant-based, non-persistent, low toxicity pesticides have been used for many years in agriculture and in industrial kitchens. These natural, biocidal ingredients gave us inspiration to develop a new range of Odour Control Technology and anti-dust mite products,” said Devan in a press release.
Bi-ome Natural is a natural, bio-based antimicrobial solution that guarantees an optimal freshness and hygiene for textiles. The active ingredients are the well-known linseed oil, obtained from the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant and Chrysanthemum, derived from the seeds of the flowers of the daisy.
The active ingredients in Bi-ome Natural are organic, GMO free, biodegradable and recyclable.
The bedding industry and more and more governments are planning to invoke regulations on recyclability, therefore technologies such as Biome Natural, which are recyclable, could gain more interest over time.
Tones of Cool Bio is a patented cooling technology that stimulates the textile to dissipate redundant heat from the body and to instantly reduce the body temperature. The PCMs used in Tones of Cool Bio are derived from sustainable, natural sources.
The PCMs have the form of a crystalline wax or oily liquid (depending on temperature) and is 100 per cent plant based. In addition, Tones of Cool Bio has a lower flammability than traditional paraffin based PCMs. The bio-source of the technology is certified by the German DIN lab.
Tones of Cool Bio will be presented in the Heimtextil collections of Standard Fiber, Tisseray, and Comfy Quilts. The technology will in first instance only be available for bedding accessories.
Heimtextil is the world’s largest international trade fair for home and contract textiles.
Devan Chemicals is a worldwide developer of speciality chemicals for textiles, headquartered in Belgium and with offices in the UK, Portugal and the US. The company was founded in 1977 and has a strong focus on innovation, research & development and sustainability. Devan is a leading innovator in the fields of protection (flame retardants), performance (odour control & stain release), thermoregulation (PCM’s and cooling technologies such as Moov&Cool), health & wellness (aromatherapy, R-Vital and allergen control) and fibres and yarns (functional masterbatch technologies).
