Singapore-based Huntsman has introduced highly-soluble Avitera™ SE reactive dyes and Eriopon® LT
clearing additive for exhaust dyeing processes. According to Huntsman, the two products can be used
together to process cellulosic fibers and blends at temperatures lower than 60°C using short dyeing
and washing-off cycles — resulting in water, time and energy savings; as well as a reduction in
carbon dioxide emissions.
The company reports the dyes may be used in ultra-short liquor ratios, and offer lab-to-bulk
and bulk-to-bulk shade reproducibility. Yellow, Red and Deep Blue, suitable for medium to dark
shades, are the first dyes in the line. Huntsman reports pale and very deep shades will be added at
a later date.
Eriopon quickly washes away any unfixed and hydrolyzed dyes at 60°C, according to the
company.
Huntsman also reports the dyes are compatible with its Gentle Power Bleach™ pretreatment
system, which features enzyme technology capable of low-temperature bleaching at a neutral pH.
“This ground-breaking new technology, which allows water and energy savings of 50 percent and
more, is an opportunity for mills, brands and retailers to make a real difference,” said Stephen
Gray, vice president, research and technology, Huntsman. “Avitera SE dyes and Eriopon LT have a
unique set of properties that ensure much lower processing costs, yet high-quality results and
greatly improved environmental acceptability. All of these benefits make a key contribution to
sustainability in textile processing.”
United Kingdom-based Marks & Spencer recently ran some trials with a key supplier using
the Avitera SE and Eriopon products. “The trial results demonstrated the potential that Avitera SE
and Eriopon LT have for reducing water and energy use, improving productivity as well as ensuring
high-quality results,” said a Marks and Spencer spokesperson. “We believe that this type of
technology will help our suppliers deliver plan A* aspirations for improving the sustainability of
the textile supply chain.”
November 17, 2010