Wilmington, Del.-based DuPont has signed an agreement with Gaffney, S.C.-based Springfield LLC -- a manufacturer of uniforms, sportswear and outwear, as well as flame-resistant (FR) and protective fabrics for military, government, and other applications -- granting Springfield manufacturing and distribution rights for DuPont's Protera™ fabric in the United States and the Caribbean. Springfield also will develop new fabrics to add to the Protera line.

Protera is an inherently FR fabric with built-in permanent thermal protection properties. According to Springfield, apparel made with Protera is very comfortable and durable, and has better lifecycle value than FR cotton/nylon apparel of a similar weight. The fabric was created to protect industrial workers against electric arc hazards, and it meets National Fire Protection Association Category 2 requirements.

"Springfield LLC FR textile business has had a long relationship with DuPont and with Protera products and services," said Ed Shogan, CEO, Springfield. "This transition will be seamless and add to the success of an already successful brand."

DuPont will continue to offer mills and end users technical and sales assistance for Protera fabrics.

February 9, 2010