Greer, S.C.-based Alexium Inc. — a wholly owned subsidiary of Australia-based Alexium International
Group Ltd., a holder of proprietary patent applications for Reactive Surface Treatment (RST)
technology — is launching Cleanshell™, an advanced process for water- and oil-repellent treatment
of textiles.
Based on RST technology, which uses microwave technology to apply the textile treatment
rapidly and energy-efficiently, the process involves encapsulation of a fabric’s fibers with a
nanoscopic coating to protect the entire fabric. According to Alexium, Cleanshell offers superior
repellency against liquids such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, cooking oils, acids, solvents,
oxidizers and water, while maintaining the fabric’s breathability, hand and drape. The coating is
durable and able to withstand heavy usage and launderings, but also is extremely lightweight,
Alexium reports.
Cleanshell may be applied to man-made-fiber fabrics including polyester, nylon,
ballistic-protection and flame-retardant aramids; natural-fiber fabrics including cashmere, cotton
and wool; as well as blends. Alexium will license the treatment to commercial partners, as well as
using it on its own Cleanshell product lines.
February 9, 2011
