Switzerland-based Schoeller Technologies AG and its strategic distribution partner Clariant
International Ltd., also based in Switzerland, have reformulated Schoeller’s NanoSphere®
self-cleaning, water- and oil-repellent finish to use the latest C6 fluorocarbon technology,
providing a more environmentally friendly, perfluorooctanoic acid- and perfluorooctane
sulfonate-free finish.
According to the companies, the new formulation and nanoparticle mix still is highly water-
and oil-repellent, abrasion-resistant and durable under the most stringent washing and dry-cleaning
processes. As with the original formulation, the new finish also complies with the bluesign®
standard for environmental friendliness, and the nanoparticles are thermostable up to a temperature
of 1,700°C. The finish’s performance and biological safety have been confirmed in testing by the
Germany-based Hohenstein Research Institute.
Schoeller and Clariant initiated their strategic partnership in late 2007. Schoeller holds
the patents and manages the branding and marketing of NanoSphere; while Clariant is responsible for
production, global sales and distribution, and knowledge and quality assurance transfer to licensed
textile manufacturers.
June 3, 2008
