Advanced GreenShield protects fabrics from water, oil & stain

03 Jun '11

2 min read

BigSky Technologies LLC, announced the issuance of the first in a series of patents for their GreenShield fabric finish technology. GreenShield is a new process for water-, oil-, and stain-repellency that replaces the conventional polymer-based chemicals with particle-based green nanotechnology, reducing the use of fluorochemicals by as much as 10 times.

The proprietary technology covered by the patent represents a new application for biomimicry by truly simulating the natural water repellency in the microscopic roughness of a lotus leaf surface. Undetectable to human touch, the microscopic surface roughness of fabric treated with GreenShield finish allows water and oil to roll off the surface, resulting in superior water- and oil-repellency and stain-resistance. The water-based formulation is safe and environmentally friendly, reduces fluorocarbons by 6-10 times, but at the same time maintains the hand and feel of fabrics, and is permanent with excellent wash-durability.

The patent, number 7,879,743, marks a major milestone for the two-year-old company, which manufactures textile finishes inspired by nature. "Our goal was always a greener stain-resistant technology," says Dr. Cathy Fleischer, Managing Partner, BigSky Technologies LLC. "We have been able to scientifically mimic the repellency of the lotus leaf, using 6-10 times fewer fluorocarbons in the process. That's a first."

GreenShield is certified by SCS (Scientific Certification Systems) to deliver outstanding stain-resistance to fabrics while reducing the amount of chemicals that negatively impacts the environment. Products coated with GreenShield were tested and verified as 6-10 times lower in fluorine relative to competitors by Galbraith Laboratories, one of the largest independent testing facilities in the world.

On Biomimicry: innovation inspired by nature

Biomimicry is the examination of nature, its models, systems, processes, and elements to take inspiration in order to solve human problems sustainably. It introduces an era based not on what we can extract from the natural world, but what we can learn from it. The term biomimicry was coined and popularized by Janine Benyus, a scientist and author.

BigSky Technologies LLC is a materials science company that manufactures textile finishes inspired by nature. The company develops cost-effective solutions for the coatings, fabrics, and composites industries using sustainable manufacturing processes and reducing or eliminating use of harmful chemicals. BigSky Technologies LLC produces GreenShield, an environmentally friendly stain-resistant fabric finish.

BigSky Technologies LLC

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