Michelman Expands PFAS-Free Unyte Modifiers For Technical Textiles
Michelman is expanding its Unyte portfolio of water-based, PFAS-free surface modifiers for technical textiles. Unyte enhances the performance and functionality of both woven and nonwoven materials used in technical textiles and pre-preg fabrics, offering water repellency, adhesion, lubricity, thermal stability and oil repellency across various fibre substrates.
The Unyte products cater to applications in ballistics, healthcare, appliances, roof underlayment, geotextiles and unbonded glass insulation, each with specific requirements such as durable water repellency (DWR), chemical and oil repellency, adhesion resistance, binding, processability, lubricity and thermal stability.
Lauren Hickey, Michelman’s Senior Global Marketing Manager, Fibres & Composites, emphasized, “Many PFAS-containing products have been over-engineered, with nearly 15,000 chemicals classified as PFAS. The EPA’s renewed focus on limiting PFAS impacts necessitates PFAS-free alternatives. The Unyte portfolio is free from substances of concern (SoCs), helping brands mitigate environmental risks.”
Hickey also noted, “Global regulations on PFAS vary by country and state, with different enforcement dates and significant penalties for noncompliance. Many fluoropolymer manufacturers are exiting the market due to these regulations.”
Steve Bassetti, Michelman’s Global Marketing Director, Fibres & Composites, added, “Michelman’s purpose is innovating a sustainable future. As an EcoVadis Gold rated manufacturer, we are committed to sustainability. None of our products, including Unyte, contain PFAS or PFAS-containing materials, positioning us to support technical textile manufacturers in meeting new EPA regulations while maintaining performance standards.”
