Avient launches Versaflex TF Adhesive Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) solutions for adhesive films in laminations with nylon and polyester textile fabrics

Polymer materials specialist Avient Corporation, has announced the introduction of its new Versaflex TF Adhesive Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) solutions for adhesive films in laminations with nylon and polyester textile fabrics.

According to the company, these new solutions help textile fabric laminations to be soft, stretchable, and breathable. This enables uniform thickness and consistent overall appearance. 

Strong and elastic

Versaflex TF Adhesive TPEs, says Avient, offer easy processing and shaping, resulting in a strong adhesion between the TPE adhesive film and high-elastic fabrics.

In addition, these solutions are able to support the strength and elasticity of the fabric. This provides superior shape recovery of up to 99% after 300% elongation over 1 minute while also offering excellent washability in various washing machines and modes at temperatures of up to 60 °C.

Moreover, Avient’s new TPE technology can provide a cost-effective alternative to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) adhesive films and traditional glue. 

Ideal for active wear

Thanks to the strength and elasticity of the new adhesive TPEs, they are ideal for the close-fitting textiles used in active wear. “We are seeing a steady increase in the demand for fitness clothing, as people are becoming more health-conscious,” said Matt Mitchell, Director, Global Marketing, Specialty Engineered Materials at Avient.

“This trend has created a need for functional and comfortable fabrics that are also visually appealing. With the new Versaflex TF Adhesive TPEs, manufacturers can create close-fitting bodywear textiles that offer consumers a more comfortable exercise experience. Additionally, this technology caters to the growing market for seam tapes,”  he added.

Resistant

All Versaflex TF Adhesive TPEs comply with the OEKO-TEX(R) 100-2 standard, guaranteeing their testing for harmful substances and safety. The new Avient adhesive TPEs also do not include plasticisers, and contain lower levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) than most traditional adhesive solutions.

The firm’s new adhesive TPEs are available in coloured or transparent applications, and the company claims that they show very good resistance to discoloration, fading, and hazing. Applications for the new product include elastic strips for bodywear and seam tapes for sportswear.

Manufactured in Asia, Versaflex TF Adhesive TPEs are already commercially available worldwide. 

Sustainable materials

Avient Corporation provides a variety of specialised and sustainable materials solutions, including its Dyneema product, which the company deems “the world’s strongest fibre,” and is ideal for marine and sustainable infrastructure use.  

The materials maker also offers unique technologies that improve the recyclability of its products and provides several light-weight solutions able to replace heavier traditional materials such as metal, glass and wood, leading to possible improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon footprints.

In its pursuit for sustainable materials, the company recently launched Wilflex Revive bio plastisol inks for the screen-printing industry, inks that are created with 50-59% bio-derived content, helping screen printers achieve their sustainability goals while offering the same printing experience as a typical plastisol.

The firm has also extended its Gravi-Tech REC Recycled Formulations portfolio with a grade containing up to 60% ocean-bound plastic waste in addition to recycled fillers, making the total recycled content as high as 98%. Launched in early 2023, Avient’s Gravi-Tech REC recycled formulations are density-modified engineered polymer materials, including recycled content to offer a more sustainable alternative than density-modified grades based on prime or virgin polymers.

In addition to its products focused on sustainability, Avient is certified as ACC Responsible Care and is a founding member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste. 

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Featured photo credit: Avient Corporation