Archroma’s new initiatives support its mission to advance sustainable chemistry.
The Pratteln, Switzerland-based chemical company announced an exclusive global distribution partnership with Fibre52, a low-temperature, bleaching technology with an innovative dyeing application. Under the agreement, Archroma will integrate Fibre52 into its global sales and technical network.
Archroma, which recently received Cradle to Cradle Gold certification for several of its product lines, describes the partnership as “a next-generation solution for sustainable textile processing.”
The patented Fibre52 system is owned by Houston-based Innovo Fiber LLC. The technology replaces harsh, high-temperature caustic bleaching with a gentler low-temperature system that preserves the cotton fiber’s natural wax layer. The result is stronger, softer, more durable fabrics that reduce process weight loss by 2–4 percent and requires less energy and water for processing.
Fibre52 delivers consistent results across all shades, including whites. Though it was engineered for cotton, the technology is effective with cotton/polyester blends, manmade cellulosics and other cotton-rich blends. When it is combined with Archroma’s Avitera SE dyes, it enhances dye uptake, color depth, and overall resource efficiency.
Laura Thornquist, president of Innovo Fiber LLC, said the distribution deal allows the company to deliver sustainable cotton processing at scale. “This is how the industry moves forward: practical innovation that improves performance, protects fibers, and dramatically reduces environmental impact,” she said.
“This partnership is a strategic milestone that brings together Innovo Fiber’s groundbreaking technology and Archroma’s sustainability innovation. Together we are empowering the textile industry to achieve new levels of efficiency and environmental sustainability. This is a game-changer for the industry and we are excited to lead the charge,” said Dhirendra Gautam, Archroma VP commercial.
Archroma also played a key role in the renovation and development of a sustainable laboratory facility at the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) in Mumbai, India.
The upgraded facility is designed to help address current industrial challenges while encouraging innovation in sustainable and resource-efficient textile technologies. Archroma said it “will strengthen the department’s capacity to conduct fundamental research and develop future-oriented technologies in textile processing, manufacturing, and effluent treatment.”
The firm added that supporting ICT is particularly important as only a few institutes continue to offer specialized academic expertise to the textile sector.
In addition to helping ICT keep pace with evolving educational and industrial requirements, the facility is expected to serve as a platform for community outreach. Archroma said the department aims to organize training programs for small business entrepreneurs, artisans and local stakeholders to promote eco-friendly processing practices and value-added techniques.
“The upgrade of our textile laboratory, supported through the funding from Archroma, will significantly enhance our teaching and research ecosystem. This will help students, researchers, and community stakeholders access improved facilities and work on solutions aligned with sustainable development. We appreciate Archroma’s support in strengthening academic capability for the broader societal benefit,” said Ashok Athley, ICT’s head of department of fibers and textile processing technology.
Archroma’s support was made possible through its Corporate Social Responsibility program.
Source: https://sourcingjournal.com/