The sweet smell of innovation at Omniflex
American manufacturer of super-thin, high-performance films from thermoplastic polyurethane and other specialty polymers Omniflex LLC has introduced a new odour-control technology, Natural Elements, into its well-established range of Transport waterproof-breathable footwear films.
Developed by Omniflex’s joint venture partner Etcetera LLC, Natural Elements technology can be incorporated into films, adhesive systems, yarn, or surface treatments for fabrics and leathers, and utilises a variety of silver, copper, blends of each, or proprietary non-metallic additives to meet the particular odour-control needs of a specific application. It can also be tailored to provide slow-to-fast activation, short-to-long lasting, or a combination of both in the same film layer. Additionally, unlike other methods that require two layers, by combining odour-control technology into a single waterproof-breathable textile composite, weight and bulk is said to be reduced in the finished boot or shoe.
Having been tested under AATCC Method 100 and AATCC Method 147 the films incorporating the new technology were found to prevent bacterial growth that can cause odours, providing ongoing antimicrobial protection as well, in certain versions, also preventing fungal growth, making them especially well-suited for use in footwear applications.
Made from polyurethane, copolyester, and ether-amide polymers, Transport films can be laminated to fabrics using all commercial lamination techniques for 2, 2-1/2, and 3 layer fabrics, and, according to the company, can be used in a variety of footwear, and apparel, applications that demand high moisture-vapour transmission, excellent stretch and recovery, good drape, quietness, or wash durability.
